A Guide to Classic LED Strip Lighting

LED strip lighting is a versatile, cost-effective way to enhance any space. At WeLoveLEDs you’ll find rigid, flexible, colour-changing, water-resistant, eco and classic strips, in lengths from one to five metres and with either 3528 or 5050 chips.

Benefits and main uses

Classic strips are available in pure white for a daylight effect, warm white for cosy spaces, or RGB / RGBW for fully customisable colour.

• Create discrete accent lighting in shelves, ceiling coves and plinths
• Add colour to stair treads, bar fronts or display cabinets
• Replace fluorescent tubes in offices to eliminate flicker and reduce eye strain
• Enjoy up to 50 000 hours of life — around six years of continuous use

Recommended products:

• Classic 120 12 V — dimmable static colours (five options)
• Classic 120 24 V — dimmable, pure or warm white
• Classic RGB 60 12 V — creative multicolour effects
• Classic RGBW 60 24 V — RGB plus dedicated white chip

Key things to consider

IP rating

IP20 is suited to dry indoor areas. For kitchens or bathrooms, choose an IP65 water-resistant strip and use matching weather-proof fixings.

Lumens and wattage

Higher lumen ratings give brighter light. Classic strips typically run between 9.6 W / m and 17.2 W / m, with a high lumen-per-watt output compared with halogen or fluorescent lamps.

Installation

• Clean, grease-free surfaces ensure the adhesive tape bonds well
• Use 12 V or 24 V DC drivers to match the strip voltage
• White strips can be linked with plug-in connectors; RGB / RGBW require soldering
• Cut only at marked points and buy about 10 % extra length for margins

Working near water

Classic strips have lower IP ratings. In splash zones switch to water-resistant models or add protective channels with diffusers.

Frequently asked questions

Can I connect LED strips together?

Yes. Use clasp connectors for single-colour strips or solder joints for RGB / RGBW. See our connector range.

Will LED strips overheat?

LEDs run cool, but ensure strips are not completely enclosed and that the driver is correctly rated.

Related content

• LED strip types explained
• LED strip voltage options
• Guide to water-resistant LED strips