How to waterproof LED strip connections

With summer in full swing, we're enjoying the great outdoors. The time is right to think of adding both interest and function to that railing, gazebo or patio cover with waterproof flexible LED strips. Whether you want a soft warm glow or a dramatic colorful effect, you can do it with LEDs. Waterproof lighting provides a few challenges, but we can help you solve those.

Challenge 1: Waterproof flexible LED strip is sold in 16 foot reels, but my installation is going to require other lengths. How do I make sure my connections are good?

Solution: It's simple and easy to do with installation accessories for LED lighting such asshrink tube. You simply insert the connector leads and the connector through a 3-4" piece of shrink tube. Using a butane torch, carefully apply heat evenly to the tubing, preventing it from melting or burning. See our detailed guide on how to waterproof LED strip connections.

Challenge 2: I love the idea of lighting my gazebo with waterproof flexible LED strip. I have power outlets in the gazebo, but will it be safe to plug in an AC-DC transformer when the conditions will sometimes be wet? What if I don't have power at the site?

Solution: Use an IP67 rated waterproof LED lighting transformer. These are in stock from 60 W up to 240 W. One reel of 30 LED per meter waterproof flexible LED strip is rated at 36 W and 60 LED per meter at 72 W. So there is a waterproof transformer for every LED lighting job. If you need something even larger, just let us know. You can also run direct burial cable to a dry location such as a garage. In a previous blog, we discussed LED voltage drop, what it is and how to avoid it. Check that article if you're going to be running a substantial amount of wire to the power source.

Challenge 3: I can't seem to find all of the installation accessories for LED lighting I need.

Solution: TheLEDLight.com is your one stop shopping source for those hard to find installation accessories. We have everything you need in the right size and the right gauge.
Wire: 16 gauge wire is good for most installations. We carry 16-2 for standard LED installations and 16-4 for RGB color changing LED installations. The wire is color coded so hooking up to your color controller is a breeze.
Wire Nuts and Quick Splice Connectors: These installation accessories make your connections sure and tight.
Waterproofing Aids: Clear Silicon Rubber #10-150 Cures tack-free in 10 minutes, full cure in 24 hours; Shrink tube in various sizes and sealed connectors. These connectors replace either the standard wire connector or quick splice when matting two wires with one.
Wire Strippers: Good for various wire gauges.
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