How to Use Outdoor LED Strip Lights to Brighten Your Backyard

Light-emitting diode (LED) lights are taking over the industry. People are gravitating toward this superior technology and are using them inside and outside of the home for almost every application.

The global LED lighting market is expected to grow to more than $264 billion in the next few years. With an influx of new products and designs flooding the strip lighting industry, it can be tricky to navigate. That’s why we want to share several pro tips that can help you with your LED lighting setup, especially if you're trying to create an amazing display of illumination for your yard or outdoor space.

If you're ready to feel the glow, these tips will help you put together your outdoor LED strip lights in a way that truly upgrades your landscape.

Survey Your Yard

The right light setup can turn your average yard into a majestic gallery – if you put it together properly. Start by surveying your yard space to see where the opportunities lie.

This requires you to focus on both function and aesthetics. When you walk around your yard, you'll see some dark spaces and areas where you can add light. Carve out space for your deck, grill area, pool, and other places in your landscape.

By taking the time to survey the yard first, you'll have an excellent starting point and will be able to turn your yard into a well designed and functional space. Outdoor LED strip lights provide an excellent way to get started.

Browse Other Completed Projects

Take the time to also find some completed projects that you can borrow ideas from. Try searching Pinterest or other online collections for inspiration. Perhaps there are some neighbors who have used LED lights to their advantage. You can also look into landscaping catalogs for an idea of how you can use these light strips in a way that best suits you.

Explore Your LED Strip Light Options

Next, learn what types of strip light options are available. When you start with the right types of products, you'll be able to add lights in your bushes, around your porch, light up your patio, or fix up your yard however you like.

As you start to explore, you'll find that there are so many great opportunities that you can take advantage of. Some strip light options include:

• 120 Volt LED Strip Lights
• Red, Green, and Blue Color-Changing Lights
• Lighted LED yard displays

Consider the following questions before finalizing your design:

1. Indoor or Outdoor Use?
   
   • Most yards will require weatherproof outdoor strip lights. If your space is covered you could save some costs by using indoor rated strips.
   • Outdoor strip lights offer added protection and diffusion but are not necessary unless exposed to moisture.
   
   
2. Color Preference: Single or Multicolor?
   
   • Single Color: Choose a specific shade of white (e.g., warm white, cool white) for a consistent look.
   • Multicolor (RGB or RGBW): RGB strip lights allow you to select various colors using a remote control. RGBW strips have an independent white chip for accurate white light.
   
   
3. Brightness Level:
   
   • Determine how much light you want. LED strips come in various brightness levels. Consider your yard’s size and purpose when choosing.
   
   
4. Understand Your Yard Layout:
   
   • Identify areas where you want to install LED strips. Common locations include trees, fences, pathways, and architectural features.
   
   
5. Power Source:
   
   • Plan for an indoor electrical outlet near the installation area. LED strips require power, so ensure easy access to an outlet.
   
   
6. Voltage:<
   
   • For longer runs of lights consider using 120 volt strip lights. They can run longer distances than 12 volt strip lights. Low voltage lights have a lower price point, but often can only run up to 20’ on a single continuous strip.
   
   
7. Controllers and Dimmers:
   
   • Decide if you need dimmable LED strip lights. If so, choose a compatible strip light dimmer. For multicolor strips, select a controller that suits your preferences (e.g., RGB or RGBW).
   
   

Browse these options and picture where they might go in your yard. From here, you'll be able to outfit your yard space in a way that makes the most sense.

Consider Some Popular Trends

Strip lights are trending, but they are also here to stay.. Understanding these trends can help you improve your landscaping and curb appeal while making decisions that also give you a return on investment (ROI).

Some options that you can explore include:

• Strip lights that are controlled by Wi-Fi controllers
• LED lights for outdoor walls
• LED Lanterns that serve as centerpieces in your yard
• Adorning your trees with color-changing lights
• Lights that are set on a timer
• Consider bistro style patio lights in your design

Have a Budget

When you're spearheading any type of backyard LED strip light project, always make sure that you have a budget in mind. If your planning is organized, you'll have the opportunity to stretch your dollar further while making sure that you're getting the best quality lighting products.

Consider the cost of all of the lights that you need, and if you're hiring a pro for installation, also weigh the cost of labor. Take a detailed approach when planning these projects and explore all of your supply options so that you don't end up overspending on your LED lighting.

Find a Company That Can Help You

There are several companies that can help you when you're working with LED lights. These companies specialize in projects that can light up both your interior and your landscaping.

If you're in the market for outdoor LED light strips, it pays to get the help of a company that has lights that'll stand the test of time. Speak to one of these professionals about your project and brainstorm ideas with them.

Be sure to ask for examples of LED light strip projects they've completed in the past. A quality lighting installation company can offer valuable experience and design knowledge. Collect some cost estimates from at least three pros and compare notes to make sure that you get everything that you need from the project.

A Guide to Outdoor LED Strip Lights

How Long Do Outdoor LED Strip Lights Last?

While most LED strip lights tend to last 4 to 8 years, you can take several steps to ensure longer life, such as using a surge protector, unplugging when not in use, and sealing any connections with a weatherproof heat tape kit.

Is It OK To Leave LED Strip Lights On All Night?

It is not recommended to leave your LED strip lights on 24 hours a day. While you may choose to leave them on during the night to create a nice outdoor ambience, we strongly advise unplugging your lights for a few hours each day. Leaving outdoor LED strip lights on 24/7 can cause them to overheat, shorten their lifespan, and is not covered under warranty.

Do LED Strips Use A Lot Of Electricity?

LED lights use 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and tend to last as much as 25 times longer. These lights are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and will save you money on electric bills while still illuminating your yard in an impressive manner.

Do Backyard LED Light Strips Attract Bugs?

Warmer colors, like yellow and red, tend to attract less bugs than white or blue colored LED strips. Using color changing RGB LED strip lights can help you fine tune your ambience and allow you to choose warmer colors to help ward off bugs.

Brighten Your Backyard With Outdoor LED Strip Lights

Your yard will glow with pride when you purchase outdoor LED strip lights that can get the job done. Strip lights will help you take your yard to the next level and will give you the chance to love where you live.

Birddog Lighting would love to help you with your next lighting endeavor. For answers to your questions, contact us online or call us at (406 )586-5970 for more information.