The light-emitting diode or LED was invented back in the early 1960’s and just like any new technology, it took some time before it can live up to its true potential. The LED is a semiconductor light source which was originally used as an electronic component, mostly as indicator lights in different devices and they were limited to a low-intensity red light. However, modern LEDs are available from ultraviolet to infrared wavelengths and have very high brightness levels. Over the past decade LEDs revolutionized lighting in more ways than the original inventors could possibly imagine.
Today, LED’s have a wide range of application mostly due to their size, energy efficiency, low heat emission, lifespan, flexibility, and so on. You can find them in things like an optical mouse or light-up shoes. But what I want to talk about is the use of LEDs, or more specifically the use of LED strip lighting Australia wide for home lighting.
LED strips are thin and flexible which means you can install them in places where conventional lighting will never fit. Whether you want to set the atmosphere in your bedroom, accent certain features of your home, or you want to make your house look like it came out of a Daft Punk video, with LED strips, the only limit is your imagination. Here is a perfect example of exactly what I am talking about.
LED strip lighting Australia wide are available both online an in hardware stores, but before you go shopping, here are some things that you might want to consider.
First of all, there are a number of different types of LED strips and each of them is more or less suitable for certain applications. For example, there are encased LED strips, non-encased ones, self adhesive, rigid LED bars and so on.
The length of the strips is also important. Most of them come in 5 meter strips, but what’s even more important is the LED count within that length. If the LED’s are too far apart, you won’t get that clean line of light you want. Instead, you will end up with spots of light similar to cheap Christmas lights.
You should also pay attention to the brightness of the LED strips. Despite the fact that LED technology has significantly advanced over the past years, you shouldn’t just assume that they will be bright enough. In fact, in some case you might not even need a strip that is too bright. So be sure to check the light output of the LED strips which is expressed in lumens per meter.
Another important aspect is the colour of the light which is more a matter of personal preference. Some LEDs are able to change colours while some have fixed colour of light. Also, LEDs may have different colour temperature. This doesn’t refer to actual temperature, but how cold or warm the light appears. This is important since it can significantly affect the overall atmosphere.
And finally, check the wattage of the LED strips and whether your power outlet can cope with the energy demands of the strips. Wattage also determines the energy consumption and although LEDs in general don’t use too much electricity, if you overdo it, it may end up taking a toll on your electricity bills.
