LED Strip Installation Guide
- Genesis One Lighting
- Mar 29
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 21

Installing LED strips enhances your space with a subtle, ambient glow (indirect LED Lighting) or lines of light that create a modern aesthetically appealing installation. below you will find the LED Strip Installation guide
Plan Your Layout
Determine where you want to install the LED Strip, such as in bulkheads or coves.
Determine whether the strip will be direct or indirect lighting. This will influence the type of LED strip and profile that would be most suitable for the application.
Measure the installation area to know the length of LED strips and aluminium profiles required.
Remember to take into account off cuts. It is recommended to have 10% additional strip on hand before you start the installation.
Choose the Right LED Strips
Select LED strips based on brightness, colour temperature, and chip type.
For direct lighting, higher LED density helps achieve a uniform glow. Consider using 2110, 2116 or high output COB strip
Consider the cutting length you require. Dark spots or hot spots look visually unappealing
Be careful to cut only on the copper cutting pads as indicated on the image below
Select Appropriate Aluminium Profiles
Aluminium profiles house the LED strips, aiding in heat dissipation and providing a polished look.
The depth of the profile affects light diffusion and uniformity.
Install the Aluminium Profiles
Mount the profiles securely in the chosen location, ensuring they are straight and level.
Consider the depth of the mounting groove and the thickness of the surface.
You may require cutting of the LED Strip to fit into the profile.
You may also be required to extend the LED strip through soldering which means you will need a soldering iron, solder and flux. (and a whole lot of patience)
Be careful to connect the LED strip with the correct polarity
You can also use quick connectors to extend LED strip, which is much more reliable and faster
Attach the LED Strips
Clean the surface inside the aluminium profile. Ensure the profile is wiped clean of all dust and human sweat and oils
Use gloves to ensure that you are not touching the LED chips when installing
Peel off the adhesive backing from the LED strip and press it firmly into the profile.
Be careful not to remove the strip once installed. This may affect the 3M tape on the back of the LED Strip and not stick on the profile as expected
Connect to Power Supply
Wire the LED strips to a compatible power supply, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Ensure all connections are secure and insulated.
Ensure that you are using the correct Voltage driver to match the LED Strip. This could be 12v, 24v or 48v.
Test the Installation
Before finalizing, turn on the lights to check for uniformity and desired brightness.
Make any necessary adjustments.
LED Chip Types and Recommended Aluminium Profile Depths
The combination of LED chip type and aluminium profile depth influences the uniformity of the emitted light. Here's a guide:
LED Chip Type | Chip Size (mm) | Recommended Profile Depth (mm) | Notes |
2835 | 2.8 x 3.5 | 12–15 | Suitable for general indirect lighting with moderate diffusion. |
3528 | 3.5 x 2.8 | 12–15 | Similar to 2835; offers a balance between brightness and diffusion. |
5050 | 5.0 x 5.0 | 12–50 | Larger chips require deeper profiles for uniform light distribution. |
COB | N/A | 8–12 | Chip-on-Board design allows for shallower profiles with even lighting. |
Deeper profiles help in reducing visible spotting, especially with larger LED chips. >12mm deep profile can minimize spotting even with standard non-COB LED strips.
By carefully selecting your LED strips and matching them with appropriate aluminium profiles, you can achieve a seamless and aesthetically pleasing indirect lighting effect in your space. For more information, please contact our sales office on +27(0)11 4620251, send a mail to sales@genesisone.co.za or visit our website www.genesisonelighting.com Visit our google business profile https://g.co/kgs/FPEZzs6 Unit 27, Northlands retail park, 210 Epsom Avenue, Hoogland, Randburg, 2169
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