Introduction
LED aluminum channels are modern innovations which primary function is to act as a mount for strip lights. Aside from that, they provide protection from the elements and diffuse the glow emitted by LEDs to provide even and consistent lighting.
In short, aluminum profiles make strip lights, which are already fantastic on their own, even better. You can install them yourself, but doing so requires extensive research and preparation.
To help you, Ecoshift Corporation put together a detailed guide on the different parts of the standard LED strip light channel. Read on to learn more about this essential component of your lighting system.
Major Parts of an LED Aluminum Strip Light Profile
Most aluminum profiles consist of four major parts: the heat sink, diffuser, metal clips, and end caps. Each component serves a distinct purpose that contributes to the system’s overall efficacy.
Heat Sink
The heat sink is essentially the aluminum body of the LED profile. It’s the part where you mount your strip lights, keeping them in place.
Its main purpose, though, is to act as a conduit for heat, ensuring that the LEDs don’t burn out. The material used in heat sink construction plays a role in the product’s overall quality, with aluminum being the best choice since it’s an excellent heat conductor.
Diffuser
The heat sink is the base and the next part, the LED strip diffuser, is the cover that goes over it to enclose the lights within the profile. Diffusers come in numerous finishes, including but not limited to transparent, translucent, and opaque. Of course, the type you choose will affect the glow emitted by your LED strip light channel.
It’s also worth noting that the material used for the production of LED strip diffusers vary, with the most common being polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), and acrylic. Polycarbonate LED strip diffusers are the most durable and can resist extreme temperatures, making them ideal for use in outdoor settings.
Metal Clips
What’s great about LED strip light channels is that they have many variants, each with unique applications. One of these variants is the surface-mounted channel, which requires clips to attach it to the surface. You can use plastic clips, but metal clips are considered the better choice because they’re more durable.
End Caps
You now know that the diffuser is the cover of the LED strip light channel, but it’s not the only component that seals it. Aluminum profiles also have end caps, which literally cap the ends of the extrusion, further protecting your strip lights from dust, dirt, and moisture.
Other Accessories
Depending on your chosen aluminum profile, you might need other accessories to complete the installation. If you’re planning to install LED strip light channels along the edges of your ceiling, you’ll need connectors to bridge the gap created by corners.
Factors To Consider When Installing LED Strip Light Channels
Knowledge is power, especially when you don’t have prior experience installing LED strip light channels. If you’re at a loss right now, consider answering the questions below before starting the installation process. Doing so may help you save time and money.
Do You Have All the Parts Ready?
You need more than just the aluminum profile and LED strip lights to complete this project. When shopping, note the inclusions and ensure that all necessary parts are there. You can also consult with light specialists like Ecoshift Corporation regarding matters like diffuser finishes, aluminum profile type, and other factors affecting your decision.
Are You Using the Right Equipment?
As previously mentioned, there are many types of LED strip light channels in the market. You have recessed, surface-mounted, flexible, and even circular aluminum profiles. The lighting design you want dictates the type of channel you need to buy, so make sure you’re using the right equipment.
For example, recessed aluminum profiles are the answer if you want under-cabinet lighting. This profile type slots into the surface of the cabinet, resulting in an unobtrusive, space-saving lighting solution.
Another factor to keep in mind is the IP rating of the aluminum profile. This rating determines the product’s resistance to water and dust, with IP20 being the lowest and IP68 being the highest. If you’re using your LED strip lights outdoors, choose an aluminum profile with the appropriate IP rating.
Can You Really Install Them on Your Own?
Installing LED strip light channels is a challenging do-it-yourself (DIY) project, especially if you’ve never done it before. It requires more than the knowledge of parts; you also need to know how to cut the strips and connect them correctly. One mistake can risk damaging the strips or, worse, causing electric shocks.
It’s not impossible to install LED strip light channels on your own. Just be honest with your skills and capabilities to decide whether to go the DIY route or hire a professional. Working with lighting specialists guarantees the safety of the installation process and the quality of the final product.
Did You Buy Your LED Profiles From a Trusted Supplier?
Not all LED strip light channels are created equal. Some are made of inferior materials that break easily or can’t withstand extreme conditions. Others have parts that don’t fit together, making the installation more difficult.
When shopping for aluminum profiles, buy only from trusted suppliers like Ecoshift Corporation. Aluminum profile distributors with established track records can be trusted to provide high-quality products and first-rate customer service.
Where To Buy High-Quality LED Strip Light Profiles
LED aluminum profiles are available in most hardware stores and lighting shops, so shopping for them should be easy. However, these suppliers don’t always offer the same level of quality. Some products are overpriced, while others are made with substandard materials.
To be sure you’re getting your money’s worth, buy your LED strip light channels from trusted companies like Ecoshift Corporation. We offer a wide range of aluminum profiles for different lighting applications, so you’re sure to find the perfect one for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services!
Conclusion
Installing LED strip light channels is a challenging but rewarding task. It’s not one you can blindly pursue, though, so it’s best to prepare extensively, learning about the parts of the profile, and discerning if it’s time to ask assistance from an expert. With the proper knowledge and tools, you’re on your way to creating beautiful and functional lighting in your home.
If you’re looking for high-quality and affordable LED aluminum profiles, Ecoshift Corporation is the supplier for you. Our catalog has a wide range of products perfect for different lighting applications. Plus, our expert team is always ready to assist you with your inquiries. Check out our online shop today!
