LED STRIP LIGHTS
Posted: Sun Mar 20, 2016 4:07 am
I've made extensive use of LED strip lighting in the ballad. It's easy to install and easy on the batteries. I buy Chinese product from ebay for about $7 for a 5m long strip. I've tried both the waterproof type and the non-waterproof type, always in warm white for the ambiance. After 2 1/2 years on the water since launch my findings are:
- The 600 light rolls put out a lot more light than the 300 light rolls (obviously), but the 300's are nice for background lighting behind the main cabin valences.
- The waterproof variety has a lot higher failure rate than the non-waterproof type. In fact, I've replaced all of the waterproof ones at least once, and twice in some areas such as the galley and the V-berth. Haven't had any failures in the non-waterproof ones ... strange but true, which is why I'm switching over to all non-waterproof strips.
I also installed LED reading lights (also from China, about $30 a pair) and had 2 bulb failures. Spare bulbs are quite reasonable, so it's not a problem ... just carry some spares.
It's nice to flick on every light in the boat and not have to worry about draining the battery in a short time!
- The 600 light rolls put out a lot more light than the 300 light rolls (obviously), but the 300's are nice for background lighting behind the main cabin valences.
- The waterproof variety has a lot higher failure rate than the non-waterproof type. In fact, I've replaced all of the waterproof ones at least once, and twice in some areas such as the galley and the V-berth. Haven't had any failures in the non-waterproof ones ... strange but true, which is why I'm switching over to all non-waterproof strips.
I also installed LED reading lights (also from China, about $30 a pair) and had 2 bulb failures. Spare bulbs are quite reasonable, so it's not a problem ... just carry some spares.
It's nice to flick on every light in the boat and not have to worry about draining the battery in a short time!