There’s no doubt that USB LED strip lights are a convenient way to light up a room. They’re easy to use and can be plugged into any USB port. But with convenience comes the question of safety.
Are USB LED strip lights safe to use? In this article, we’ll take a look at the risks and benefits of using these lights and help you decide if they’re right for you.
So, are USB led strip lights safe? The short answer is yes, USB LED strip lights are safe to use because they are low voltage and do not generate any heat when in use. However, as with any electrical device, there are some risks you should be aware of.
5 Things That Make USB Led Strip Lights Safe
Here are five things that make USB LED strip lights safe:
1. USB Led Strip Lights Are Low-Voltage
USB LED strip lights run on a voltage of just five volts (5v), which is much lower than the 120 volts used in standard household wiring. This makes them much safer to use.
This makes it very difficult, if not impossible, to electrocute yourself by using USB LED strip lights. Meaning the risk of electrical shock is virtually non-existent.
This is one of the first reasons why many people choose to use USB LED strip lights in their homes.
2. USB Led Strip Lights Are Current-Limited
Another safety feature of USB LED strip lights is that they are current-limited. This means that the amount of current flowing through the lights is always kept below a safe limit.
This prevents the lights from getting too hot and potentially causing a fire. There are instances where other stip lights powered by 12 volts or 24 volts can overheat and start a fire, but this is not something you have to worry about with USB LED strip lights.
3. USB Led Strip Lights Have A Short Circuit Protection
If there is a short circuit in the wiring of your USB LED strip lights, the protection circuitry will automatically cut off power to the light. This prevents the short circuit from causing a fire or other safety hazard.
So with this, USB led strip lights are great for people who are not electrically savvy. There is little danger of making a mistake and causing an electrical hazard.
4. USB Led Strip Lights Are Cool-Running
USB LED strip lights run very cool, even when they are being used at full power. This means there is very little risk of them starting a fire, even if they are left on for a long period of time.
They not only pose a lower fire risk, but they also don’t generate a lot of heat, which is great if you’re looking for something to light up a small space.
5. USB Led Strip Lights Are CE And RoHS Certified
All USB LED strip lights are certified by both the CE (European Union) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) standards organizations. This means that they have been tested and found to be safe for use in Europe and beyond.
Just make sure you purchase from a reputable company or well-known brand to ensure you’re getting a product that meets these safety standards.
Things To Look Out For When Buying USB Led Strip Lights
Here are a few factors to help to purchase safe USB LED strip lights for your home or office;
- Check The Rating Of The USB Led Strip Light
The rating of a USB LED strip light is a measure of its maximum wattage. Make sure the rating of the light is about the same or lower than the wattage of the USB port you’re plugging it into.
For example, if your USB port is rated for five watts, make sure the light you purchase is also rated for five watts or less.
This way you can be sure that the light will not overload the USB port and cause a fire.
- Choose A Light With Short Circuit Protection
As mentioned earlier, short circuit protection is a key safety feature of USB LED strip lights. Make sure the light you choose has this feature, as it will help to prevent any potential fires.
As the name implies, short circuit protection will cut off power to the light if a short circuit is detected in the wiring.
- Stay Away From Cheap Lights
There is a lot of cheap knock-off USB LED strip lights on the market. These lights often don’t meet safety standards and can be dangerous to use.
Instead, stick with reputable brands or companies that have a good reputation for making safe LED strip lights.
For example, companies like Anker, Sylvania, and Philips all make safe and reliable USB LED strip lights.
- Check The Length Of The USB Led Strip Light
Some USB LED strip lights to come in very long lengths, up to 100 feet. Make sure you check the length of the light before purchasing it to make sure it’s appropriate for your needs.
Not all devices will be able to support a light that is 100 feet in length, so be sure to check before you buy.
- Make sure the USB led light strip is UL listed
Not all USB LED strip lights are created equal. Some may be certified by CE and RoHS, but not have a UL listing. The UL (Underwriter’s Laboratories) is an independent safety organization that tests and certifies electrical products for use in the United States.
Make sure the light you purchase has a UL listing to ensure that it has been safety tested and certified for use in the United States if you live in the States.
Important Safety Tips For Using USB Led Strip Lights
There are some important safety tips you should follow when using USB LED strip lights:
- Do not connect your USB led strip lights to a port that is low on power. This could cause the strip light not to function properly.
- Do not use USB led strip lights with an extension cord. This could create a fire hazard.
- Do not place your USB led light strip near any flammable materials.
- Do not cover the light strip with anything that will obstruct the airflow.
- Make sure to keep USB LED strip lights out of reach of children and pets.
- Always remember to turn off your USB led strip lights when you’re not using them.
- Don’t store your USB led strip light all bundled up. This could break the lights causing a fire.
- Always store your led strip lights nicely rolled up in a safe place.
- Do not store your USB Led strip lights in a damp or moist environment.
- This could cause the light to short circuit and start a fire.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, USB LED strip lights are a great way to add some extra light to your home or office without having to worry about fire hazards. Just make sure you follow these simple tips to ensure safe use. Stay safe and have fun with your new USB LED strip lights.