Aeotec LED Strip Lights: The Complete Smart Lighting Guide

An Introduction to Aeotec LED Strip Lights

LED strip lights have become an incredibly popular way to add colorful, customizable lighting to any space. One of the leaders in smart home lighting technology, Aeotec, offers a wide variety of LED strip lights that can be controlled remotely and integrated into larger smart home ecosystems.

In this article, we’ll provide an in-depth look at Aeotec’s LED strip light offerings, features, benefits, and more. Whether you’re looking to accent your living room, bedroom, or any other area, Aeotec’s LED strips provide an energy-efficient, adaptive lighting solution.

What Are Aeotec LED Strip Lights?

Aeotec’s LED strip lights are thin, flexible strips that contain small LED bulbs encased in a silicone protective coating. They come in a variety of lengths like 16.4 feet and 32.8 feet. The LEDs are very energy efficient and long lasting.

The strips can produce a range of colors from warm white to vibrant RGB colors. They connect to a controller, which enables you to change the color, modes, and brightness of the lights using smartphones, voice assistants, and more.

Benefits of Aeotec LED Strip Lights

Here are some of the main benefits of choosing Aeotec LED strip lighting:

• Energy efficiency - LEDs consume very little energy compared to traditional incandescent or fluorescent lighting.
• Customization - With RGB LED strips, users can choose from over 16 million colors to create unique lighting scenes.
• Control integration - Aeotec LED strips can be controlled using the Aeotec app, voice assistants like Alexa, automation platforms, and more.
• Adaptive lighting - The lights can mimic natural sunrise/sunset patterns and automatically adjust based on time of day.
• Long lifespan - LED bulbs can last thousands of hours longer than other types of lighting.
• Safety - Aeotec LED strips run on low voltage DC power for safety.
• Flexibility - The thin, flexible strip design allows the lights to be installed in tight spaces or on irregular surfaces.

Aeotec LED Strip Models

Aeotec offers several different LED strip light models to suit a variety of lighting needs and budgets:

Z-Wave LED Strip

The Z-Wave LED strip is designed for easy integration into Z-Wave smart home systems. Key features include:

• 16.4 foot strip with 300 LEDs
• Tunable white (2200K - 6500K)
• Z-Wave Plus for smart home control
• 800 lumen brightness
• CRI 80 for vivid, natural lighting

Smart LED Strip

As the name suggests, the Smart LED Strip offers full-featured smart lighting capabilities:

• 16.4 foot strip with 300 LEDs
• RGBW lighting capable of over 16 million colors
• Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings, IFTTT
• Music sync, themes, timers, and schedules
• 800 lumen brightness

Multi-Color LED Strip

This economic option provides RGB color lighting on a budget. Features include:

• 16.4 foot strip with 150 LEDs
• RGB color selection
• 433MHz RF remote control
• 12V power adapter

High Brightness LED Strip

As the name suggests, this strip offers an extra bright 1400 lumens output. Other details include:

• 32.8 foot strip with 300 LEDs
• Wide 140 degree beam angle
• Tunable white (warm to cool)
• 1400 lumens brightness

How to Install Aeotec LED Strips

Installing Aeotec LED strip lights is a relatively straightforward process. Here are some step-by-step instructions:

1. Choose Installation Location

First, decide where you want to install the lights. LED strip lights work well behind furniture for accent lighting, under cabinets for task lighting, or on ceilings and walls as decorative ambient lighting. Measure the area to ensure you get a strip that's long enough.

2. Prepare the Mounting Surface

Thoroughly clean and dry the chosen mounting surface. For best adhesion, smooth any rough areas. Place painter's tape along the installation area for easy cleanup.

3. Attach Mounting Clips

Attach the provided mounting clips evenly along the installation zone, following the measurements on the LED strip. Having a clip every few inches secures the strip firmly.

4. Peel and Apply LED Strip

Peel off the adhesive backing on the LED strip a little at a time. Apply the strip to the mounting clips in sections, pressing firmly to adhere. Go slowly to avoid bubbles or creases.

5. Connect Strips or Cut to Length

If using multiple strips, carefully connect them end-to-end. For a single strip, cut the strip to the desired length using wire cutters. Add strip caps on open ends.

6. Connect Power Supply

Plug in the LED power supply and connect it to the strip light using the provided connectors. Be sure not to overload the power supply.

7. Test and Adjust Strips

Turn the lights on and test for dark spots, gaps, or loose connections needing adjustment. Carefully press down or reconnect anything amiss.

8. Install Diffuser Cover

For exposed areas, snap on the diffuser cover that softens the light and provides protection. Cut the diffuser to match your trimming of the strip.

Controlling Aeotec LED Strip Lights

One of the best features of Aeotec LED strips is the ability to control your lighting in different ways:

Aeotec App and Dongle

For strips that include the Aeotec lighting controller, use the Aeotec app and dongle to connect. This allows features like changing colors, setting themes and routines, creating timers, and more.

Voice Control

Compatible Aeotec LED strips work with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for handy voice control. Change colors, turn lights on/off, dim, and set lighting scenes using voice commands.

Smart Home Platforms

Aeotec strips can integrate directly with smart home platforms like Samsung SmartThings or IFTTT. Automate your lights to turn on at sunset, flash when your security system is armed, and much more.

Z-Wave Control

For Z-Wave compatible Aeotec strips, use your Z-Wave hub or controller to include the lights in your system. Control the strip from the hub app or build automations.

Wireless Remote

Some Aeotec LED strips come with an RF remote control for easy access to color and brightness adjustments. No app or hub required!

Fun Lighting Ideas with Aeotec LED Strips

Ready to get creative? Here are some fun ways to use your new Aeotec LED strip lights:

Backlight a Bookcase or Display Shelf

Install LED strips behind or under a shelf to create a soft, accent glow highlighting treasured items, collections, books, and more.

Under Cabinet and Task Lighting

Use LED strips for handy kitchen task lighting under cabinets and islands. Great for work spaces too.

Outdoor Lighting

Weather resistant outdoor strips are perfect for patios, gazebos, garden paths and other outdoor areas.

Bedroom Accent Lighting

Install strips behind the bed, in closets or shelves for a relaxing bedroom oasis. Set timers to wind down before bed.

Home Theater Lighting

Set the mood for movie night with colored LED strips around the TV, behind seating, and even under floorboards or furniture.

Sync to Music

Use a music sync mode to make your lights dance and change colors in time with songs playing from a stereo or computer.

Safety Tips for Aeotec LED Strip Installation

To safely install and enjoy your new LED strip lights, keep these safety guidelines in mind:

• Carefully follow all included instructions to avoid hazards.
• Be sure your power supply matches the voltage of the LED strip.
• Only use indoors or in dry locations unless strips are outdoor rated.
• Don’t overload extension cords, power strips, or outlets.
• Don’t pinch or damage the strip wiring.
• Avoid looking directly into the bright LEDs.
• Never submerge or spray water directly on strips.
• Have lights installed by an electrician if hardwiring into a ceiling or walls.

Summary

Aeotec LED strip lights provide an advanced smart lighting solution using energy efficient, long lasting LED technology. With options including tunable white and full color RGB strips, Aeotec makes it easy to customize and control your lighting using apps, voice, and automation.

Carefully installed, LED strip lights open up a world of possibilities for accenting and illuminating any space in your home or office. So go ahead, get creative, and make your space shine!

FAQs

How do I cut Aeotec LED strips?

Use wire cutters to cut the strip at the intervals between the copper pads. Cutting the strip eliminates the extra length but allows the rest to keep working.

Can Aeotec strips get wet?

Most Aeotec LED strips have an IP20 rating, meaning they are moisture resistant but not waterproof. Avoid getting them wet and don't install in damp locations.

How long do Aeotec LED strips last?

With average use of around 10-12 hours per day, Aeotec LED strips have a lifespan of 20,000-30,000 hours, or over 11 years before bulb replacement.

Do I need a separate controller for Aeotec strips?

Some Aeotec LED strips come with a built-in controller, while others require a separate controller accessory to enable lighting controls and automation.

Can I extend the length of Aeotec LED strips?

Yes, you can connect multiple Aeotec LED strip sections together to extend the length up to 32.8 feet. Be sure not to overload the power supply.