Wire for LED lights

Susan Fernandez May 05 2022

Whenever you are trying to install LED lights, you will need to purchase the correct type of wire. This is because traditional incandescent bulbs use less power than LEDs. As a result, you will need to get a wire that is able to carry more current. Most hardware stores will have the right type of wire for sale. You can also find it online. Just make sure that you purchase the correct gauge and type of wire for your project. Otherwise, you could end up causing a fire.

What type of wire is used for LED lights?

For your LED lights, most individuals would recommend using a solid core 18-gauge wire. The cost difference between this wire size and a smaller cable is minor, and 18-gauge is about as big as you can go if you want your wires to fit into most holders or terminals.

You could go with a 16- or 14-gauge cable if you have very long runs, but those sizes are overkill for most applications. If you have a short run and want to save a few pennies, 20-gauge is also an option but make sure not to use stranded core because it’s more difficult to work with.

In general, you will use THHN wire for your LED lighting project. This is because it is able to handle high temperatures, which is important since LEDs give off more heat than traditional bulbs. THHN is also a solid core wire, which makes it easier to work with. You can also use Romex cable for your LED project. This type of cable has multiple wires inside of it, including a ground wire. However, it can be more difficult to work with since you have to strip the sheathing off before you can access the individual wires.

Do you need special wire for LED lights?

LED lights don't require customized wiring, although some fixtures may overheat if they're enclosed. LED lights will work with any common light fixture as long as it isn't enclosed, which might cause heat damage. Electrical interference can be caused by bad wiring, but this is readily remedied with a suppressor. It all means that you should always consult an electrician when installing or repairing your wiring.

While you don't need special wire for LED lights, you might need a different type of switch. For example, if you're putting LEDs in a car, you'll want to get a switch that's rated for the number of amps your LEDs will draw. You can find these switches at most auto parts stores.

As long as you use the correct gauge and type of wire, you will be able to safely install LED lights in your home or business. Just make sure to consult an electrician if you have any questions about your project.

What gauge wire should I use for LED light bar?

When it comes to wire size, things are straightforward. The 16 gauge, is a large enough automotive wire to support 6 amps at the distances mentioned above. You can also oversize the cable using a 14 gauge if you prefer. These are larger than standard household electrical wires, so you will have to purchase them from an automotive store or online.

What thickness of wire do I need?

The size of the wire will determine what gauge it is. Consider how much current the wire must carry (measured in amperage or amps) and how heavy it needs to be carried. Wire gauge is directly proportional to the number of amps required to run through it. The distance you need the wire to reach can also affect its gauge.

As a general rule of thumb, 14 gauge is good for up to 15 amps and 12 gauge is good for up to 20 amps at short distances (less than 50 feet). If you need to run the wire over long distances or for more amps, you'll need 10 gauge.

You can also find 8 gauge wire, which can handle even more current but is much more expensive and not necessary unless you're running a very large number of LEDs. The last thing you want is for your lights to dim because the wire can't handle the amount of current being drawn.

Do existing fixtures need to be rewired for LED lights?

LEDs create light by passing a current through a semiconductor, whereas CFLs utilize gas, incandescent bulbs use a current through the filament, and fluorescent bulbs use electricity to heat it up. You should not have to worry about your old wiring not being compatible with new LED lights.

However, some light fixtures may need to be modified or replaced in order for the LEDs to work properly. For example, an incandescent bulb has a socket that is made of metal. This conducts heat away from the filament and prevents it from melting. However, an LED doesn't generate enough heat to warrant this type of cooling, so the socket can actually melt and cause a fire.

When it comes to replacing the bulbs, you just replace one with the other. Simply switch the old bulb for the new one, and you're done. Just be sure to turn off the electricity before switching the bulbs. The bulb has a built-in mechanism that manages the current. It's always best to consult an electrician before making any changes to your electrical system. They will be able to tell you if your current wiring is adequate for LED lights or if any modifications need to be made.

Can I use speaker wire for LED lights?

The lamp consumes little current, especially when utilizing modern LED bulbs, so a speaker wire of even 18 or 20 gauge is sufficient. It means that the voltage drop over the length of the wire will be low.

The main consideration with any lighting is the maximum safe current that can be carried by the type and size (gauge) of wire you're using. 20-gauge speaker wire is good for up to 3 amps, which is more than enough for most lamps. If you're unsure about what gauge wire to use, you can always consult an electrician. They will be able to help you select the right size and type of wire for your project.

What about shielding the wires?

While it's typically simple, a few exceptions may require some effort but not as much re-wiring as you would with incandescent bulbs. The trouble is if you start to detect any signal interference near your property, which an LED light bulb can contribute to. Interference can include a slight buzzing sound, the image on your television screen becoming fuzzy, or even your garage door opener not working properly. If you experience any of these problems, you may need to take extra steps to shield your wires from interference.

One way to do this is to use a shielded cable. This type of cable has a layer of metal foil or braid that surrounds the inner conductor. The shield helps to deflect signal interference away from the wire so it doesn't affect your electronics. You can also try using an electron beam crosslinked (EBC) insulated wire. This type of wire is specifically designed to resist signal interference. It's a little more expensive than regular wire but well worth the investment if you're having trouble with interference.

You may also need to reroute your wires if you're having persistent problems with signal interference. This can be done by running the wires along a different path or by installing them in a conduit. Rerouting the wires may take some time and effort, but it's worth it if it means you won't have to deal with interference anymore. Shielding your wires is an important step in protecting your electronics from interference. If you're having trouble with signal interference, talk to an electrician about the best way to shield your wires. They'll be able to recommend the best type of wire for your needs and help you install it properly.

Old fixtures for new LED lights - yes or no?

LEDs, like all other forms of lighting, are just as conventional and basic. While LEDs are more sophisticated than preceding light bulb sorts, they use the same wiring. As long as you get the new lamp base that matches the old one, all you have to do is swap them out. Just be sure to turn off the power before changing the bulbs.

You should be aware that some local building codes don't allow for the installation of new fixtures unless they're up to code. This usually isn't a problem if you're just replacing an old fixture with a new one, but it's something to keep in mind if you're installing a new fixture from scratch. In most cases, you'll just need to make sure the new fixture is rated for the voltage and amperage of your electrical system.

If you're not sure whether or not your new LED light fixtures are up to code, you can always consult an electrician. They will be able to tell you if the fixtures are up to code and help you install them properly.

With LED lights, you have a lot of options for fixtures. You can buy new fixtures specifically designed for LEDs, or you can use your old fixtures as long as they're rated for the voltage and amperage of your electrical system. Just be sure to turn off the power before changing the bulbs, and consult an electrician if you're not sure whether or not the fixtures are up to code.

Wiring tips when converting from incandescent to LED lights

To begin, make sure the light isn't on an older dimmer switch circuit. If you don't have modern dimmers and don't use them, there's a chance you'll run into issues. If you have an older home, it's likely the wiring isn't as up-to-date. You might want to consider calling in an electrician to inspect your wiring and update it if necessary.

Older homes are also more likely to have aluminum wiring instead of copper. Aluminum wiring is more susceptible to fire hazards, so it's important to have it replaced if possible. If you're not sure what type of wiring your home has, an electrician can help you determine that as well.

If you're comfortable working with electricity, you can install LED lights yourself. Just be sure to turn off the power at the breaker box before starting any work. Once the power is off, remove the old light bulb and screw in the new LED light. If the socket is loose, tighten it with a screwdriver. Be careful not to overtighten the socket, as this can cause damage.

Once the new light is in place, turn on the power at the breaker box and test the light. If it doesn't work, check to make sure the bulb is screwed in correctly. If it still doesn't work, you may need to call an electrician to look at your wiring. Installing LED lights is a simple process that doesn't require any special skills or tools. Just be sure to turn off the power before starting and call an electrician if you have any questions or concerns.

Final thoughts

LED lights are becoming more and more popular, but there are a few things you should know about wiring them before you get started. First, make sure the light isn't on an older dimmer switch circuit. If you're not sure, call an electrician to check your wiring. Second, be aware that some local building codes don't allow for the installation of new fixtures unless they're up to code.

This usually isn't a problem if you're just replacing an old fixture with a new one, but it's something to keep in mind if you're installing a new fixture from scratch. Third, when converting from incandescent to LED lights, it's important to turn off the power at the breaker box before starting any work.