A Guide to Water-Resistant LED Strips
LED strip lights are flexible tapes populated with tiny light‑emitting diodes (LEDs). Demand has grown thanks to their versatility and the wide range of sizes and specifications on offer.
This guide explains the benefits and common uses of water‑resistant LED strips, points out key buying considerations, recommends products from the WeLoveLEDs range and answers frequently asked questions.
Benefits and main uses
Water‑resistant LED strips are ideal for accent, mood and task lighting. Key benefits include:
Water protection and versatility
These strips are safe in rooms where moisture is present — bathrooms, kitchens and even sheltered outdoor areas. They are water‑resistant, not waterproof, so should never be submerged.
Typical installation points include wedding venues, garages, driveways, gardens, outdoor seating areas, bedrooms and living rooms.
Efficiency
Water‑resistant strips are lightweight and flexible, making installation straightforward. The protective coating also helps prevent shorts during mounting. LEDs produce more lumens per watt than incandescent lamps and maintain that efficiency regardless of strip shape or size, saving money over time.
Colour variety
Options range from pure white to warm white or RGB, which can generate more than 16 million hues.
Key things to consider
IP rating
An IP rating describes a strip’s resistance to solids (first digit 0–6) and water (second digit 0–8). IP65 offers splash resistance; IP67 is resistant to water jets. Even at IP67, the strip must not be submerged.
Lumens and wattage
Check wattage per metre to size the power supply. Many water‑resistant strips fall between 5 W – 15 W per metre, producing roughly 300 – 500 lm.
Voltage
Water‑resistant strips in the WeLoveLEDs range run on 12 V DC, offering safer, low‑voltage wiring.
Products in the WeLoveLEDs range
Water‑Resistant 60 LED Strip 12 V
Available in pure or warm white, 8 mm × 3 mm profile. Designed for bathrooms, kitchens and bars. 30 000‑hour life and IP65 splash protection. Dimmable, with a 12‑month warranty.
Water‑Resistant 60 RGB LED Strip 12 V
RGB version (10 mm wide) for colourful indoor installs. IP65 rated — suitable for sheltered outdoor use with appropriate weather protection.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use LED strips in the shower?
Yes, provided the strip has a suitable IP rating (IP65 or above) and is not submerged.
What fixings should I use?
Measure the run carefully and cut only at marked points. Most strips have a strong adhesive backing; ensure the surface is grease‑free for good adhesion. Use a 12 V DC supply and weatherproof clips for outdoor runs.
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