How to Calculate the Proper Power Supply for Your LED Strip Light

How to Calculate the Proper Power Supply for Your LED Strip Light

How to Calculate the Proper Power Supply for Your LED Strip Light

So, you've got your LED strip lights, and you're ready to transform your space into something magical. But wait, how do you make sure you’ve got the right power supply to keep those lights shining bright without any hiccups? Don’t worry, it’s simpler than you might think! Let’s walk through the process step by step.

  1. Understand Your LED Strip's Specifications

First things first, take a look at the specifications of your LED strip lights. You'll find these on the packaging or the product description if you bought them online. The key details you need are:

  • Voltage (V)
  • Power consumption per meter (W/m)
  • Length of the strip (m)

For example, let’s use our G Bright High Density SMD2835 LED strip light which is rated at 12V and consumes 2.93W per ft, and you have a 16ft strip.

  1. Calculate the Total Power Consumption

Next, you need to figure out the total power consumption of your LED strip. This is simply the power consumption per meter multiplied by the total length of the strip.

Here's the formula: Total Power (W) = Power per ft (W/ft)×Length (ft)

For our example: Total Power = 2.93 W/m×16 ft = 46.88 W

  1. Add a Safety Margin

To ensure your power supply can handle any unexpected power spikes and to prolong its life, it’s wise to add a safety margin. A common practice is to add about 20-30% to your total power consumption.

Power with Margin=Total Power×1.2

For our example: Power with Margin = 46.88W ×1.2 = 56.26W

So, you should look for a power supply that can provide at least 56.26W.

For easier calculation, you can use our online power supply calculator here.

  1. Choose the Right Voltage

Make sure the voltage of the power supply matches the voltage of your LED strip lights. For our example, you need a 12V power supply.

  1. Select Your Power Supply

Now that you know the voltage and the minimum wattage, you can choose your power supply.

So, you should look for a 12V power supply that can provide at least 56.26W. To keep things simple, a 12V 5A power supply would be a good choice, as it comfortably covers your needs.

Quick Recap:

  1. Check your LED strip's specs: Voltage, Power per meter, Length.
  2. Calculate total power: Power per meter x Length.
  3. Add a safety margin: Total power x 1.2.
  4. Match the voltage: Ensure the power supply voltage matches the LED strip voltage.
  5. Choose the right power supply: Ensure the power supply can provide at least the calculated wattage and current.

And that’s it! You’re now equipped with the know-how to choose the right power supply for your LED strip lights. Enjoy your beautifully lit space!

 

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About Us

G Light LEDs is a customer-focused company aimed at providing the highest quality lighting solutions at the most affordable prices, whether for small DIY, residential, commercial, events, or prototype projects.

In addition to offering high-quality lighting products, G Light LEDs takes pride in its industry-best customer support, from the design phase to after sales.

G Light LEDs is committed to delivering the "Good Light, Good Life" experience in every project.

Try us. We're here to help. Send us an email at sales@glightleds.com or call us at 888-401-7144; our lighting experts will be more than happy to hear from you!

 

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