Introduction
LED strip lights are some of the most used lighting solutions today. They’re highly versatile, easily installed, and relatively inexpensive. On their own, strip lights are already fantastic, but you can elevate them further by using aluminum channels.
Aluminum channels serve as housings for strip lights. They’re not a strict necessity, although it’s worth installing them alongside your LEDs since they offer plenty of benefits.
For one, they protect your strip lights from damage. They also diffuse the light to create a softer glow and extend the list of locations you can use strips. Plus, they come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit any need or preference.
If you want to purchase aluminum channels for your LED strips, here are seven lighting tips to help you out.
Tip #1: Consider the Lighting Effect You Want To Achieve
Aluminum channels for LED strips are not a one-size-fits-all solution. The kind you need will depend on a number of factors, including the lighting effect you want to achieve.
The lighting effect is the final product of the light distribution and brightness, beam angle, and luminaire type. Considering these components can help you envision how the light will shine on your space, ultimately leading to the aluminum channel you must purchase.
For example, if you want accent lighting for your kitchen, you may want to get recessed aluminum channels for LED strips. These will sit flush against the underside of your cabinet, providing a clean look. The LED diffusers also vary, with the opaque variant being more adept at limiting the brightness of the strips.
Tip #2: Mind the Size of the Room You Want To Illuminate
Light is so powerful that it can drastically change the appearance of a room. Often, you will find fixtures that can make a room seem bigger, but there are also instances when they can do the opposite. Knowing this, you need to mind the room size when shopping for aluminum channels for LED strips.
Let’s say you have a small area that desperately needs more light, except you don’t have much room for a ceiling fixture. A lighting tip applicable in this scenario is to assess the available space, such as the walls, floors, and the bottoms of any shelves. Since you can’t use the ceiling, you can turn to these spots and use aluminum channels that apply to them.
One example is the floor aluminum profile, a channel that runs along the edge of the floor. This type provides light without compromising foot traffic, making it perfect for small hallways and bathrooms.
Tip #3: Learn About the Different Types of LED Profiles
Aluminum channels for LED strips are excellent accessories since they come in many forms, resulting in more LED strip light uses. The different types available on the market have unique features and advantages. Take, for example, the recessed aluminum profile.
Recessed channels are a space-saving solution, given that you install them against a crevice made on a surface. However, it might require extra effort to incorporate into your home if you don’t have space for it.
Another example is the circular aluminum channel for LED strips. This profile typically hangs from the ceiling and comes in bigger sizes, making it a striking option for people who want to replace their main fixtures.
Tip #4: Understand What Diffusers Are
Next on this list of lighting tips is to understand what diffusers are. Aluminum profiles consist of several parts, including LED diffusers. This component essentially acts as the cover of the extrusion, protecting the strips from different elements.
When shopping for profiles, you must check the finish and material used to create the diffusers since these two affect the product’s efficacy. Polycarbonate (PC) diffusers are some of the best because they are highly durable and heat resistant.
The diffuser finish, on the other hand, determines how light passes through the channel. Standard options include transparent, translucent, and opaque, but some shops also offer black diffusers.
Tip #5: Get Waterproof Options if Necessary
Aluminum channels for LED strips protect the lights from the elements, but there are instances when they can’t do much. This is especially true for areas often exposed to water, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and patio.
For these areas, you need profiles that can withstand moisture and humidity. The good news is that there are many waterproof options in the market, so you want to worry about the elements ruining your strips if you install them in these places.
When shopping for aluminum channels, always check the IP rating. The higher the number, the better it is at repelling water and other liquids. Contact the supplier to ensure you’re getting the waterproof variant if it’s missing from the product page.
Tip #6: Purchase in Bulk To Save Money
This lighting is instrumental if you’re on a budget or working on a big project. Many light suppliers offer discounted rates when people purchase in bulk, so it’s best to take advantage of these deals whenever possible.
Purchasing channels in bulk saves you money and time since you don’t have to keep going back to the store to get more. Of course, you need to be sure of the type you need to avoid any issues in the future.
Tip #7: Buy LED Aluminum Profiles From Trusted Sources
Last on this list of lighting tips is to purchase aluminum channels for LED strips from trusted sources.
Not all lighting suppliers provide the desired quality, which is why research is key. Check for reviews if possible since a previous customer’s experience is very telling. This way, you can learn about product quality, pricing, and even after-sales service through the testimonials people leave behind.
If you don’t know where to start, you can always browse Ecoshift Corporation’s catalog. We are a leading provider of LED lights in the country, known for our reasonable prices, quality lighting solutions, and dependable customer service. Give us a call to learn more about our offers.
Conclusion
There you have it— seven helpful lighting tips that cover everything from aluminum channels to diffusers. You can understand strip lights and LED diffusers better by keeping these tips in mind. Additionally, they can point you toward the right option for your home.
If you need further assistance or an opinion of a lighting expert, don’t hesitate to contact Ecoshift Corporation. We have a team of lighting specialists ready to help you with all your needs, from strip lights to aluminum channels. You can also come to us for installations. Call us today to see what we can do for you.
