Understanding 120V LED Strip Lights
120V LED strip lights are a popular choice for under-cabinet lighting due to their ease of installation and energy efficiency. They offer a bright and versatile lighting solution for kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas where under-cabinet lighting is desired.
Advantages of 120V LED Strip Lights
120V LED strip lights offer several advantages over traditional under-cabinet lighting options, such as fluorescent or incandescent bulbs.
- Energy Efficiency: LED strip lights consume significantly less energy than traditional lighting options, resulting in lower electricity bills.
- Long Lifespan: LEDs have a much longer lifespan than traditional bulbs, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
- Brightness: 120V LED strip lights offer a wide range of brightness options, allowing you to customize the lighting level to your needs.
- Color Temperature: 120V LED strip lights are available in various color temperatures, from warm white to cool white, allowing you to create the desired ambiance.
- Easy Installation: 120V LED strip lights are typically self-adhesive and can be easily installed without the need for special tools or wiring.
- Versatility: 120V LED strip lights can be cut to size, making them suitable for a variety of applications and spaces.
Difference Between 120V and 12V LED Strip Lights
The primary difference between 120V and 12V LED strip lights lies in their power source. 120V LED strip lights are directly connected to a 120-volt electrical outlet, while 12V LED strip lights require a transformer to convert the 120-volt power to 12 volts.
- Power Source: 120V LED strip lights are directly connected to a 120-volt outlet, while 12V LED strip lights require a transformer.
- Installation: 120V LED strip lights are typically easier to install as they don’t require a transformer, while 12V LED strip lights may require additional wiring and installation steps.
- Brightness: 120V LED strip lights often offer higher brightness levels compared to 12V LED strip lights.
- Cost: 120V LED strip lights are generally more expensive than 12V LED strip lights.
Comparison of 120V LED Strip Lights, 120v led strip under cabinet light fixture
Here is a comparison table of some popular 120V LED strip lights, highlighting their key features:
| Brand | Brightness (Lumens per foot) | Color Temperature (Kelvin) | Length (Feet) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | 1000 | 3000K (Warm White) | 16.4 | Dimmable, self-adhesive, waterproof |
| Brand B | 800 | 4000K (Neutral White) | 10 | Self-adhesive, non-waterproof |
| Brand C | 1200 | 6000K (Cool White) | 25 | Dimmable, self-adhesive, waterproof |
Installation and Wiring
Installing 120V LED strip lights under cabinets is a straightforward process that can significantly enhance your kitchen or workspace. This section will guide you through the installation process, highlighting essential tools, materials, and safety considerations.
Tools and Materials
Before starting the installation, gather the necessary tools and materials.
- 120V LED Strip Lights: Choose a strip length that accommodates your cabinet space.
- Power Supply: A 120V power supply is crucial for powering the LED strip lights.
- Wire Strippers: These are essential for removing insulation from electrical wires.
- Wire Connectors: Use wire connectors to securely connect the LED strip lights to the power supply.
- Screwdriver: A screwdriver is necessary for attaching the power supply and securing the LED strip lights.
- Measuring Tape: Use a measuring tape to determine the required length of the LED strip lights.
- Scissors or Utility Knife: These tools are required for cutting the LED strip lights to the desired length.
- Optional: Mounting clips, adhesive tape, or a drill for securing the LED strip lights to the cabinets.
Connecting LED Strip Lights to a 120V Power Source
Connecting the LED strip lights to a 120V power source is crucial for safe and effective operation.
- Power Supply Connection: Connect the power supply to a standard 120V electrical outlet. Ensure the power supply is compatible with the LED strip lights.
- Wire Connection: Connect the wires from the LED strip lights to the power supply terminals. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
- Safety Precautions: Always disconnect the power supply before making any connections. Ensure the wires are securely connected to prevent electrical hazards.
Cutting and Connecting LED Strip Lights
LED strip lights are designed to be cut at designated points, allowing you to customize the length to fit your cabinets.
- Cutting Points: Look for designated cut points marked on the LED strip lights.
- Cutting Technique: Use scissors or a utility knife to cut the LED strip lights at the designated points.
- Connecting Cut Ends: Connect the cut ends using wire connectors. Ensure the positive (+) and negative (-) wires are connected correctly.
Applications and Considerations: 120v Led Strip Under Cabinet Light Fixture
120V LED strip lights offer a versatile and practical solution for illuminating various spaces in homes and commercial settings. Their flexibility, ease of installation, and energy efficiency make them an ideal choice for a wide range of applications.
Kitchen Applications
LED strip lights are highly beneficial in kitchens, providing various lighting solutions. They can be installed under cabinets to illuminate countertops and workspaces, offering ample light for food preparation and cleaning. Additionally, they can be used to create ambient lighting beneath cabinets or behind shelves, enhancing the overall ambiance of the kitchen.
Bathroom Applications
LED strip lights are particularly useful in bathrooms, where they can provide soft, diffused lighting. They can be installed around mirrors, behind vanities, or under cabinets to create a relaxing and functional atmosphere. The waterproof nature of many 120V LED strip lights makes them suitable for use in humid environments like bathrooms.
Other Applications
Beyond kitchens and bathrooms, 120V LED strip lights have diverse applications in various areas of the home and commercial settings. They can be used for:
- Accent lighting: Highlighting specific features or architectural details, such as crown molding or picture frames.
- Ambient lighting: Creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere in living rooms, bedrooms, or home theaters.
- Task lighting: Providing focused illumination for specific tasks, such as reading or working at a desk.
- Decorative lighting: Adding a touch of creativity and personalization to furniture, shelves, or walls.
- Commercial applications: Showcasing products in retail stores, illuminating displays in museums or galleries, or creating ambiance in restaurants and bars.
Considerations for Choosing 120V LED Strip Lights
When choosing 120V LED strip lights for a specific project, several factors should be considered to ensure the right fit and functionality.
- Color temperature: This refers to the warmth or coolness of the light emitted by the LED strip lights. Warm white (2700-3200K) is suitable for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, while cool white (4000-4500K) provides a brighter and more energizing light. Neutral white (3500-4000K) offers a balance between the two.
- Brightness: The brightness of LED strip lights is measured in lumens. The required brightness depends on the application. For example, under-cabinet lighting in kitchens typically requires higher brightness than ambient lighting in living rooms.
- Dimming capabilities: Dimmable LED strip lights allow for greater control over the lighting levels, enabling you to adjust the brightness to suit different moods and activities.
- Length: LED strip lights are available in various lengths, so choose the appropriate length for your project. Some LED strips can be cut to size, while others come in pre-determined lengths.
- Waterproof rating: For applications in humid environments, such as bathrooms or outdoors, choose LED strip lights with a waterproof rating (IP65 or higher).
- Power consumption: LED strip lights are generally energy-efficient, but it’s essential to consider the power consumption of the strip lights you choose. Check the power consumption per foot or meter to estimate the total power usage.
Creative Uses for 120V LED Strip Lights
120V LED strip lights can be used in creative ways to enhance the ambiance and functionality of spaces.
- Ambient lighting in living rooms: Install LED strip lights behind furniture or along the baseboards to create a soft and relaxing atmosphere.
- Highlighting architectural features: Use LED strip lights to accentuate crown molding, columns, or other architectural details, adding visual interest and depth to the space.
- Creating mood lighting in bedrooms: Install LED strip lights behind the headboard or under the bed to create a soothing and relaxing ambiance.
- Accent lighting for artwork: Use LED strip lights to illuminate artwork, enhancing its visual appeal and creating a gallery-like setting.
- Backlighting for TVs: Install LED strip lights behind a TV to reduce eye strain and enhance the viewing experience.
A 120v LED strip under cabinet light fixture can be a practical and aesthetically pleasing addition to any kitchen. For those seeking a new home in the Smyrna, TN area, there are a variety of 1 bedroom apartments in Smyrna TN available, potentially providing the perfect space to install such a fixture.
The bright, energy-efficient light from an LED strip can help enhance the functionality and ambiance of a kitchen, whether it’s a newly renovated space or a cozy apartment.
120V LED strip under cabinet light fixtures offer a convenient and energy-efficient solution for illuminating kitchen countertops and other workspaces. When choosing a brand, exploring reviews like those found on Utilitech Pro LED under cabinet lighting reviews can help you make an informed decision.
By considering factors such as brightness, color temperature, and ease of installation, you can select a 120V LED strip under cabinet light fixture that best meets your specific needs.
