Neon Flexible Strip Light Installation: Step-by-Step Guide

Neon flexible strip lights are a great way to add to any space whether, for home decor, business signage, or architectural highlights. They're versatile, easy to work with, and can fit into any number of shapes/ sizes, and can be installed without much hassle. The use of neon flexible strip lights is growing rapidly among both DIY industry enthusiasts and professionals alike. 

With that said, installing neon flexible strip lights is not as arduous as it may appear. With a bit of patience and the correct materials and tools, you will be able to push the boundaries of neon lighting. In this guide to neon light installation, we will take you from preparation through the entire installation process while helping you make your lights look neat while ensuring your lights function flawlessly.

Why Choose Neon Flexible Strip Lights?

Before we proceed with installation, we can take a short journey into the big world of why neon lighting has been a favorite over the years.

• Energy Efficiency: Neon flexible strip lights employ LED technology for illumination and these LEDs are much more energy-efficient and longer-lasting than traditional neon lighting.

• Flexibility: Being flexible, these strips can be bent around a corner or custom-shaped to fit your design requirements. This kind of versatility unlocks several creative opportunities. 

• Visual Appeal: They emit a neat, colorful glow similar to that of old-fashioned neon signs. Thus, these lights add a cool eye-catching value to any room.

• Easy Installation: One of the biggest reasons why neon flexible strip lights are chosen by customers is that they are relatively easy to install. Given the right tools and a bit of planning, one can put in the whole installation themselves. Their sleek, versatile design also makes them one of the brilliant options for staircase lighting, offering both practical illumination and a modern decorative touch along steps or handrails.

What Will You Need to Install Neon Flexible Strip Lights? 

Before you begin your installation of neon flexible strip lights, you will want to gather the required tools and materials. Here is a brief checklist:

1. Neon Flexible Strip Light

You will want to print to ensure the length of the strip fits the area you are installing it in. Neon strips are available in multiple lengths and most of these strips can be cut to your desired length. Therefore, if you lighting a countertop, small shelf, or an entire room, it is easy to cut to the desired length. You will want to measure before you cut, as cutting too long or not long enough may waste strips or the lighting may be unevenly placed.

2. Power Supply (Adapter)

You will want a power supply (adapter) that meets the voltage needs of your neon strip lights. Also, the power supply needs to be able to accept the total wattage of the neon strip you are installing. If installing multiple strips, you will want to ensure the power supply can handle the total wattage of all the strips.

3. Mounting Supplies

Adhesive strips, mounting clips, or brackets (use any or a combination based on your desire and the surface).

Screws (if you are going to use brackets for further security). Mounting clips or brackets will keep the lights secured to the surface if the strips are attached to the wall or ceiling. 

4. Tools

• Measuring tape: To be exact about the length of the lights, and their placement.

• Scissors or cutting tool: Cut the neon strips (only where indicated) to the desired size.

• Screwdriver: To install brackets or secure clips. 

• Clean rag: To wipe down surfaces prior. Wipe to make sure there is no dust or moisture to improve the adhesion of the strips.

Neon Flexible Strip Light Installation Process

Step 1: Plan Your Installation

Before starting the process of neon light installation, it’s a good idea to figure out where the lights are going to be installed. Planning is a crucial step because it can affect the way the lights look and function.

Key Considerations

Area Measurement: Use a measuring tape to measure how long you need the neon strip. Make sure to account for bends or cuts if you are placing them around a corner or other detailed areas. Some large areas may require multiple strips or connectors to help with the length of the lights.

Power Supply Placement: Make sure to choose a place that is near an outlet. Plan if you need to use an extension cord. Make sure you can easily access the power supply and that it won't be obstructed by any other furniture or curtains. You also want to avoid placing it in a wet or humid area to avoid any electrical issues. 

Surface Preparation: Make sure the surface you are placing the strip on is clean, smooth, and dry. If your chosen surface has any texture or unevenness, consider using additional mounting clips to assist with this. For best results, use a smooth, clean wall or ceiling for placement.

Step 2: Prepare the Surface

Now that you’ve planned out your installation, it’s time to prepare the surface! A clean, flat surface is essential for proper adhesion of the neon strip, which contributes to longevity.

Surface Preparation Steps:

• Wipe down the area - Use a clean, dry towel to remove any dust, oil, or dirt from the surface you want to place the strip light.

• Dry the surface - Before continuing, make sure the surface is dry! Moisture will not allow the adhesive to stick after installation and could cause the strips to peel off in time.

Mark where you want the light strips to go - it is recommended that a light pencil or tape mark out the path of the strip in case you want a straight, precise line. This makes it easier to install the light symmetrically as well as make a clean-looking install that matches uniformly.

Step 3: Cutting the Neon Flexible Strip to Length  

One of the most beautiful advantages of neon flexible strip light installation is that every installation can be perfectly customized in length. The beauty of most neon strips is that you can cut them down exactly to fit your space as long as you adhere to the manufacturer’s cutting instructions to not destroy the lights in the process.

Cutting Tip Tricks and Strokes for Success

• Cut Only at Dotted Lines - Most neon strip lights will have cut lines marked showing where you can cut safely without damaging the entire strip. These lines, typically a few inches apart, mark safe places to cut without harming any wiring or circuitry in the strip itself. Cutting in the incorrect place may void the warranty or prevent the strip from working altogether.

• Use the Right Tools - Use sharp utensil scissors are preferred to accelerate the sidings cut. If you’re cutting several strips at once, it may be faster to use a utility knife or craft cutter to get a straighter cut. Don’t rely on power equipment, which could punch through the strips.

• Seal the Ends (If needed): After cutting, some strips might need end caps to seal the open cut edges and keep the wiring protected. Just remember to read the manufacturer’s guide to make sure you’re closing off those ends correctly!

• Connect the Neon Strip to Power - Now that your neon strips are cut to the proper length, it’s time to start the actual neon light installation process. Depending on your neon strip type, you’ll either have adhesive backing or you would mount it with clips/brackets.

Step 4: Mount the Power Supply and Do the Wiring

A power supply back in the circuit is needed for the neon flexible strip light installation to function. The exact procedure for doing so may fuss over a minute or two with the alternative of having an adapter or the strip hardwired into the system.

• Use a Connector (DIY choice): If using a connector, plug the power input into one of the marker slots on the LED strip. Most strips have plug-and-play connectors that can be attached quite easily.

• Attach the power supply to the wall: For hardwired systems, follow the powering guidelines that come with the product to hook the power supply up to an electrical socket, unless you do not work with electricity yourself, in which case you will want to employ an electrical technician.

• Make sure it matches: Check to be certain the volt and watt rating of the power supply match that of the strip to avoid system overload.

• Choose a Suitable Position for Power: You must take into account that the placement of your power supply must be near the area where you have the installation, but far enough not to get wet, be heated, or suffer physical damage.

Step 5: Mount the Neon Flexible Strip Light

Next, install the neon flexible strip light on the prepared surface. Depending on the nature of the installation, you may use adhesive backing, mounting clips, or brackets.

Adhesive Backing:

Many neon flexible strips come with a self-adhesive backing that allows you to stick them directly onto clean, smooth surfaces. Just peel off the protective film and press the strip down into place.

Mounting Clips:

If you wish to provide extra security for longer runs or installations in somewhat busier areas, you may consider using mounting clips. These clips can be screwed into the wall, holding the strip securely in place. Place the clips at regular intervals along the strip for even support.

Positioning the Strip:

Line up according to your design, whether it is straight or curved. For corner installation, use a gentle bend wherever possible to avoid damaging the strip. Check levels with a spirit level tool.

Further Mounting Suggestions:

For a stronger mount, you can also use silicone or mounting brackets, which will hold better and limit movement over time.

If you’re using flat strips in a vertical position e.g. walls or columns, it is always good to check if the adhesive has long-term holding capabilities, especially with heat and humidity.

Step 6: Connect and Turn ON

Once you are satisfied the strip is securely held to the surface, you can now connect and power on the power supply and you can do some testing on the lights:

• Connect the Strip to the Power Supply: You are now ready to connect the power cables up to the neon flexible strip. If you have connectors with your installation, plug these into connectors for their terminals.

• Turn the Lights On: You can now power on your strip by plugging the power supply into a wall power outlet. Your neon flexible strip should now power on immediately. However, if it does not Power Supply loose or defective, check wiring connections etc.

• Testing function: You will be checking for light color and brightness. This is time to adjust the placement of the strip if needed. If you have a color-changing strip, test the remote control or app to make sure the product is functioning correctly.

• Check for Light Gaps: If you are installing strips to highlight a larger area, please be aware of any prominent gaps in light coverage. You may have to modify the length strips or connect additional segments. 

Step 7: Troubleshooting & Adjustments

If your lights are not performing to your satisfaction, consider these possibilities: 

• Power Supply: Reread the voltage of the power supply and ensure it is compatible with your strip.

• Connections: Recheck all connections and wiring; ensure they are dated, and secure.

• Defective Strips: Occasionally, neon flexible strips may have sections that fail to work. If that's the case, replace the defective portion, or test it in another location. 

• Heat: If the lights get too hot or flicker, that might mean the power supply needs to be replaced, or you have exceeded the total wattage the power supply can supply. Look for another power supply you can swap with, or you can change the wattage required for your strip. 

• Discrepancies: If the strip seems to be inconsistent, try to adjust the bends and/or readjust the strip for more consistent lighting.

Finishing Touches

Now that it’s all installed and functioning, you can make any final adjustments to the placement and test the overall effect. If you love the new effect, secure the strip with additional mounting clips if needed or you can add silicone to the mounting brackets to make sure they stay intact; this is especially important in areas exposed to moisture.

Ongoing Maintenance

Neon flexible LED strips are relatively durable and low maintenance, but the LED lights will look better if you regularly clean them. Avoid waiting until you see dust and dirt build up over time - periodically wipe down the LED strips with a microfiber cloth to remove any dust that may block the light output. If you have a cover on the strips, clean it with a damp cloth, and do not use harsh chemicals or cleaning additives unless specified.

Conclusion

Maybe they make bad movies in a home theater. These neon flexible LED strips are an excellent way to improve the aesthetics of any space. With a little creativity and proper installation, you can also build a colorful LED lighting space that is energy-efficient and eye-catching. Following the steps above will help you achieve a professional installation and give your lighting project a pleasing outcome without much hassle. 

Whether you were installing a neon light accent in a home theater, under cabinet lighting in a kitchen, or developing a statement piece in a commercial space, neon flexible strips have the flexibility, customization options, and style to fit your need, improve a vibe, and make you look super cool in the process!

Better yet, with the help of neon flexible strip lights, you can easily make a DIY neon sign to add a personal, playful touch to your space, whether it’s a favorite quote, logo, or fun graphic.