Rope Light FAQ
To review rope light installation instructions click here.
Is rope lighting difficult to work with?
Can I use the rope light outdoors?
Is rope lighting waterproof?
Where can I cut the rope light?
What accessories do I need?
Can I dim the rope lights?
How do I mount rope lights?
How many mounting clips do I need?
Can I form a sharp bend with rope lighting?
Can I change colors in one run of lights?
What if a bulb in the rope burns out?
What is the maximum length for one run?
Can I "hardwire" (directly wire to a power source) the 120-volt rope lighting?
Are rope lights UL listed?
Is rope lighting difficult to work with?
Rope light is very easy to work with. Once you have cut it with a pair scissors to desired length at the marked locations, you apply end caps and the appropriate connections for hooking up to the power source. For 120-volt lights, a power cord and power connector are used to plug it into a standard household receptacle. The 12-volt and 24-volt lights must be hooked up to the correct power source (battery pack or transformer, respectlvely).
NOTE: Always turn the power off before cutting.
Can I use the rope light outdoors?
Yes, you can use our rope lighting outdoors or indoors. It can be used as accent lighting, along aisles or stairs, in night clubs, around patios or walkways, along household eaves, on recreational vehicles, and more. When used heavily outdoors or in damp areas, we recommend using rope light glue or another silicon based sealant.
Is rope lighting waterproof?
Yes, rope light is waterproof if installed correctly. However, submersing rope lighting in water is not recommended. Rope light connections are susceptible to water, especially when constantly exposed, and may present a risk if used under water. When dealing with 120-volt electricity in wet areas, use extreme caution.
Where can I cut the rope light?
The rope light contains tiny marks or pictures of scissors where it is safe to cut. Cutting a rope light anywhere other than at the markings will make the rope light malfunction.
What accessories do I need?
For most connections, you will need an end cap, a power cord, and a power connector for each run. With each spool of rope light, accessories to make 3 separate runs are included. Other accessories are available such as invisible splices, Y-extensions, T-connectors, male to female extensions, female to female extensions, controllers, and more.
Can I dim the rope lights?
Yes, a standard light dimmer works for 120-Volt rope lights. You must verify you are using a dimmer capable of supporting the length of rope lights you wish to operate. As an example, if you want to dim 100 feet of 2-wire 120-Volt rope light (which uses 5.5 watts per foot), your dimmer must be rated for at least 550 watts.
How do I mount rope lights?
Rope lights can be mounted in a number of ways. The three most common ways are to use mounting clips, clear track, or zip ties. Mounting clips are screwed or glued to the mounting surface. The rope lights then snap into them. Clear track gives you the straightest possible run and results in a more professional appearance. The track is mounted using a good adhesive or screws. The rope light can then be pushed into the track. Zip ties are an easy way to secure rope lights to poles or other small areas.
NOTE: Adhesives should not be applied directly to the rope light. This may deteriorate the PVC tube.
How many mounting clips do I need?
Generally one clip per foot of rope light is recommended, but may vary depending on your application. More may be needed in areas that have a close bend.
Can I form a sharp bend with rope lighting?
No, you cannot have a severe or a crimped bend. You must have a small radius on your bend. Bends should be shaped like a narrow letter “U” instead of the letter “V”.
Can I change colors in one run of lights?
Yes, you can as long as the voltage, size, and number of wires match. You can join rope lights using an Inline Splice, an Invisible Inline Splice, or a T connector, to join two or more different colors together.
What if a bulb in the rope burns out?
If a bulb burns out, a portion of that section will not work. The rest of the lights will continue to operate. The faulty section can be fixed by removing that section (cutting in the proper locations) and splicing in a new section.
What is the maximum length for one run?
For 120-Volt rope light, the maximum is 150 feet. For 12-Volt rope light, the longest allowed length is 20 feet. For 24-Volt rope light, the maximum length is 40 feet. If you need a longer run, you will need to have an additional power source and a separate run rather than adding more to the end of the run.
Can I "hardwire" (directly wire to a power source) the 120-volt rope lighting?
Yes, you may directly wire your rope lighting to a power source. You need to cut off the plug to expose the wires.
CAUTION: Since electrical codes may vary, it is best to check THE ELECTRIC CODE HANDBOOK or contact a licensed electrician in your area for assistance.
Are rope lights UL listed?
Effective November 2003, if the end user cuts the rope lights, they are not UL listed. This does not mean they are unsafe. It simply means UL changed their guidelines for these lights sold in the US. Others may claim their lights are UL approved, but this guideline applies to their lights as well.
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