12-Volt LED Accent Lights

Creative Accent Lights

• Accent lights are normally thought of as an "around-the-home-interior" lighting scheme, but many people use them to add a custom touch to their cars, recreational vehicles and even 18-wheel trucks. The 12-volt battery in motor vehicles is perfect for powering a 12-volt string of LED lights. The drain on the electrical system is negligible, even with several strings attached to the cigarette lighter outlet.

LED Advantages

• LED advantages include bulbs that almost never burn out and stay cool to the touch, even when burning for hours. They come in a rainbow of colors and can run for long periods without a noticeable effect on the utility bill. Larger LEDs are big and bright enough to be seen for a mile or more, and easily work for holiday lighting. Smaller LEDs give a more delicate touch and are often found where just a hint of light is wanted, such as in a china cabinet.

LED Light Styles

• LED accent lights come in a variety of forms, including rope lights and spotlights. Rope lights can either have the lights outside of the rope, or wrapped within the plastic for a softer style light. They are available in lengths from a few feet to over 150 feet. Spotlights are similar to more traditional accent lighting that would go under the counter or behind a statue or vase.

Transformers

• Because 12-volt LED lights use so little electricity, they must be hooked up to a transformer when used around a home. The transformer converts the normal 120 volts of a home to a much more gentle circuit. This enables the wiring to be placed where normal electrical wiring could not legally or safely go, such as within walls. LED transformers are marked for either outdoor or indoor use, so be sure to use the proper equipment.