Connecting a 220V LED strip may seem complicated at first glance, but with the right preparation and materials, it is a fairly simple process. These powerful LED strips work directly on mains voltage and are therefore ideal for longer lengths and outdoor use. In this article, we explain step by step what you need to pay attention to when connecting, which parts you need, and how to safely install the LED strip for a durable and reliable result.
Table of Contents
First of all, you will naturally need an LED strip. These are available in various types and light colors. LED strips come in different color temperatures: 2800K–3000K (warm white), 4500K (natural white) and 6000K (daylight white). In addition, there is also an RGB variant. An RGB LED strip features seven different light colors: red, orange, purple, blue, green, yellow and 6000K (daylight white).
An LED strip is available in the following voltages:
- 12 Volt
- 24 Volt
- 220–230 Volt (can be connected directly to the mains power)
To connect a strip, you need an LED strip power adapter. This adapter must have the same voltage as the LED strip. The capacity of the adapter depends on the length and wattage of the strip.
If you have an LED strip that does not need to be controlled, such as a 6000K (daylight white) strip, no additional parts are required. However, if you want to be able to control the strip remotely, you can do so with a remote control. For example, you can control an RGB LED strip with an RGB IR remote control.
What you need:
- LED strip (usually on a roll)
- Adapter (suitable for the voltage of the LED strip)
- Dimmer/controller (optional, for dimming or controlling colors)
- Connectors (optional, for connecting multiple strips)
- Optional: soldering iron and solder (if loose connections need to be made)
- Scissors or wire cutters (to cut the strip to size)
What to do when cutting an LED strip?
All our 220V LED strips can be easily cut per meter. This is indicated on the strip itself with a pair of scissors, so you can see exactly where it is safe to do so. Therefore, it is not possible to cut the strip per 30 or 50 centimeters.
If you want to reuse the remaining piece, you will need an additional 220V adapter. After cutting it to size, you can place the end cap on the strip to neatly seal the end.
These LED strips are also suitable for outdoor use, but this requires an additional step. It is important to properly seal or tape the end piece so that no water can enter the strip. Once this is done, you can safely install the LED strip in damp or outdoor applications.
Wiring diagram for single-color 220V LED strips
Would you like to connect an LED strip, but are you not entirely sure how it works? No problem! With the explanation below, you can easily connect a 220V LED strip step by step.
Connecting a strip is easier than it seems.Using the adapter, you can connect the strip directly to the mains power (220V). The adapter comes with a connector, which is a copper coupling piece with two pins. These pins must make proper contact with the strip and the corresponding adapter.
Inside the LED strip itself, there are two cables: one for the positive side (+) and one for the negative side (–). The adapter also has two wires:
- Brown wire = the + side
- Blue wire = the – side
Make sure that the cables are connected with the correct polarity. A small plus sign (+) can be seen on the strip, to which you connect the brown wire. You connect the blue wire to the opposite side (–).
Did you accidentally connect the wires the wrong way round? No problem: you can easily flip the adapter and reconnect it.
Additionally, please check whether the two metal pins of the connector make proper contact with the copper wires running through the strip. This is important, because if the contact is poor, the LED strip will not work.
Would you like to connect the LED strip including dimmer? Then use the wiring diagram below to make the correct connection.
Wiring Diagram 220V RGB LED Strips
An RGB LED strip may sound technical, but at its core, it is simply a multi-color LED strip. The abbreviation RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue, the three primary colors from which all other light colors are created. By mixing these colors, countless shades can be displayed.
Connecting an RGB strip follows the same principle as a standard LED strip. The difference is that an RGB strip has four cables instead of two. A connector is included with the cables, allowing you to easily connect the strip and the power adapter.Because the RGB strip contains four cables, the connector also has four pins, each controlling a color channel.
You can then connect the adapter to the strip. To do this, look closely at the end of the strip. You will see three letters there: B, R, and G from top to bottom.
The adapter features four wires in different colors: green, blue, red, and black. Connect the adapter so that the black wire is at the bottom, aligning with the letter G on the LED strip. If you reverse the adapter and connect it incorrectly, the strip will not light up. It is therefore important to connect the correct color to the correct letter.
Afterward, you can plug the adapter into the wall outlet and operate the LED strip.Please ensure that the four metal pins of the connector make proper contact with the copper wires in the strip (these are visible on the back). If the contact is not correct, the LED strip will not work.
Would you like to dim your RGB LED strip or change its color? This can easily be done with an RGB remote control. This allows you to switch the strip on and off, adjust the color, and control the brightness, so you can always create the desired atmosphere.
View our LED strips
In short
Connecting a 220V or RGB LED strip is easy to do yourself with the right preparation.By working carefully and connecting the wiring correctly, you will enjoy durable and atmospheric lighting that perfectly suits any room. Whether you choose functional light or colorful accents, a properly connected LED strip always ensures the best result.
Curious about more handy tips on lighting and installation?
Then read on in our other blogs for extra information and inspiration about LED lighting.
