This is the best option for using it outdoors, without a doubt… But watch out that what you buy has an IP (Ingress Protection) rating according to your needs! LED Neon Tanks – If You Want To Use Your LED Strips Outside, Make Sure They Have A Rating Of IP65/IP67/IP68. An IP rating of 65, on the other hand is protected against light rain and dust so it can be used in semi-exposed outdoor areas or indirect exposure. While an IP68 strip is totally waterproofed and can safely be submerged continuously — this type of rating referenced by the manufacturer generally for certain depths (e.g. greater than 1 meter in depth) — such a level could still potentially rust if left exposed to direct water exposure, like open installations simply being rained on or next to fountains etc...
To waterproof the LED neon strips, it is often coated with a silicone or epoxy sealant to protect them from moisture and provide some additional rigidity. This waterproofing layer prevents and resists water, but is also resistant to UV radiation — a very important characteristic for outdoor installations exposed to sunlight. In previous studies, it has been demonstrated that a UV resistant coating added to the strip can increase LED life up to 30% (in direct sun exposure) and maintain super bright light output. Usually applied in layers, these coatings are bendable which lets the LED strips to be installed on most surfaces.
Another consideration that affects whether or not LED neon strips are suitable outside is temperature tolerance. The tough Outdoor LED Neon Strip series will survive temperatures from -20°C to +50°C for year long performance across multiple climates. Here are just a couple examples of waterproof neon LEDs manufactured to work your strip no matter what kind of craziness gets thrown its way. For example, widely used in commercial signage IP68 strips are tested to withstand a range of temperatures that makes them equally suitable for use both in winter and summer. The report says, “In 2022 a lighting longevity test finding that outdoor used LED neon strips with high-temperature resistance only lost 10% brightness after continuous-on for two years.
Waterproof LED neon strip also reveals a considerable improvement in energy efficiency, making them perfect for extended outdoor applications. These strips have other advantages as well, they operate on low-voltage DC power (usually 12V or 24V), which means their energy use is typically lower making them cheaper to run. For installations that require the lights to remain on for longer durations like landscape lighting, LED neon makes even greater savings in energy of up to 80% more than traditional neon light. This efficiency factor also ties into sustainability: because LED neon strips leave such a small environmental impact, they are emerging as the preferred choice for outdoor projects that aim to opt out of their heavy carbon footprint.
Led Neon Strip is one of the options which offer a solid, waterproof solution for many outdoor purposes that also adds longevity and saves any need for maintenance. Providing resistance to elements, these strips capable of high performance over a long period also make for strong outdoor lighting solutions.