LED strip lighting are a popular choice for both commercial and residential lighting. However, finding the perfect length of LED light strips can be a challenge.
Luckily, most LED light strips are designed to be easily cut to the desired length. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of cutting and reusing LED strip lights.
Cutting LED Strip Lights – Step by Step Guide
Before you embark on cutting your LED light strips, it’s essential to ensure that they are actually cuttable. Not all LED light strips can be cut without causing damage. Once you’ve confirmed that your light strip is cuttable, follow these steps for a safe and effective cutting process:
Step 1: Measure the Length
Start by measuring the length of the LED strip. This will help you determine if you need to remove any excess length. Be sure not to cut the strip too short, as this can render it unusable.
Step 2: Find the Cutting Guide
Look for the scissors logo on your light strip set. This logo indicates where you can safely cut the strip without causing damage. Locate the cutting guide to ensure a precise cut.
>>> Read more: How to Easily Customize the Length of LED Strip Lights
Step 3: Cut Carefully
Using a pair of scissors, cut the excess strip along the marked position indicated by the scissors logo. To avoid any issues, make a straight cut instead of a diagonal one. A diagonal cut can cause the light to stop working, so precision is key.
Fixing Cut LED Light Strips
If you’ve cut your LED light strip but still want to reconnect the cut pieces, you’ll need an additional 4-pin connector. However, if you cut the strip improperly, it may cause the light strip to stop working altogether. To avoid this, follow these steps to fix your LED lighting:
Step 1: Choose the Right Connector
To reconnect your LED strip, choose a 4-pin connector that matches the width of your strip lighting. It’s crucial to get the correct size for a proper fit.
Step 2: Open the Connector
If your connector comes with a cover, open it on the side before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Connect the Cut Ends
Insert the two cut ends of the best led light strips into the fastening clips of the 4-pin connector, making sure they’re not reversed. Refer to the provided instructions to ensure proper alignment.
Step 4: Test the Connection
After placing the LED strip into the connector, close the cover and check if the light strip is lit as usual. If it doesn’t light up, adjust the connection between the connector and the LED strip.
Using Cut LED Strip Lights
Now that you’ve successfully cut and fixed your LED strip lights, it’s time to put them to good use. Follow these steps for a seamless installation:
Step 1: Prepare the Wall
Before attaching the strip light, ensure that the wall is clean and dry. A dirty or wet surface will prevent proper adhesion.
>>> Read more: How to Easily Connect LED Strip Lights Together?
Step 2: Remove the Covering
Peel off the covering on the adhesive side of the strip light and position it on the desired area.
Step 3: Connect the Controller
If you purchased a set of LED strip lighting, it should come with a controller and a connector. Connect the strip to the controller using the provided connector. Pay attention to the orientation of the strip to avoid any connection issues.
Step 4: Power it Up
Finally, plug your light strip into a power source and enjoy the vibrant illumination. If the strip doesn’t light up, double-check if you made any mistakes while cutting the strip.
With these simple steps, you can easily customize the length of your LED strip light and create an aesthetically pleasing and functional lighting setup in your space. Just remember to measure accurately, cut carefully, and follow the instructions for reconnecting the cut ends.
