Hello everyone, I am planning to equip my IKEA Hemnes wardrobe with LED lights to both enhance its appearance and improve visibility inside the wardrobe. My question is, which types of LED lights are best suited for integration into the wooden components of the Hemnes? Are there specific models or mounting options that work particularly well with the Hemnes? It is also important for me that the installation is as simple as possible, without requiring extensive DIY skills or special tools. Does anyone have experience with such modifications or can recommend suitable LED lights and their installation methods? Thank you in advance!
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Santiagobu21 Aug 2016 09:22Hello Chenpau, I’d be happy to give you some tips regarding your issue. LED strips with a self-adhesive back are often a practical solution because they are very easy to install and can be cut flexibly to fit the dimensions of your Hemnes. Make sure the strips have a low profile and emit warm white light, which is pleasant for living and storage areas. A version with an integrated motion sensor or switch is also useful so the lighting only operates when needed. Electrically, the strips can often be easily connected to a 12V power supply—here you might need a transformer if the LEDs do not support 230V directly. Another tip is to carefully hide cables when routing them, for example in the edges of the cabinet frame. If you plan to drill for screw mounting, I recommend using thin screws and pre-drilling holes to avoid damaging the wood. Do you already have a specific type of LED in mind or additional control requirements?
Santiagobu schrieb:
LED strips with a self-adhesive backing are often a practical solution because they are very easy to install and can be cut flexibly to fit the dimensions of your Hemnes.This statement is true; however, with wooden furniture like the Hemnes, it should be noted that adhesives may not hold permanently on the surface, especially if the cabinet interior absorbs moisture due to air circulation. Therefore, I recommend using small, inconspicuous screws in addition. Furthermore, the heat generated by the LEDs, although minimal, should be taken into account to prevent damage to the wood.
In addition, LED spotlights can be used at specific points (e.g., under shelves) to create targeted accents. Installation usually involves drilling with a Forstner bit so the spots sit flush. Built-in lights within the furniture create a more professional appearance but require more effort.
Regarding power supply, it is advisable to use a 12V system, as it increases safety and is compatible with most LED components. Power supplies should be installed in a ventilated area outside the furniture or in a discreet location. Cable ducts also help to keep wiring neat.
In summary: For a durable, visually appealing solution, a 12V LED profile system with screw mounting is ideal. For simple and quick setups, self-adhesive LED strips are acceptable but should be used cautiously regarding durability.
Hello Chenpau, I recently installed LED strips on my Hemnes and can recommend the following:
- Use high-quality LED strips with at least 300 LEDs per meter (about 91 LEDs per foot) for even lighting.
- The strips can be easily attached with 3M adhesive tape, but on uneven surfaces or where they might be touched often, it’s best to use small mounting clips as well.
- For power supply, I use a small plug-in power adapter that is easy to hide.
- To increase convenience, I connected a small control unit with a remote that allows dimming.
- Inside the unit, I mounted the strips on the inner sidewalls so the light is indirect and doesn’t cause glare.
Installation was straightforward, but you’ll need a small soldering iron if you want to adjust the length of the strips.
If you don’t have soldering experience, there are also plug connectors for LED strips that simply snap together.
- Use high-quality LED strips with at least 300 LEDs per meter (about 91 LEDs per foot) for even lighting.
- The strips can be easily attached with 3M adhesive tape, but on uneven surfaces or where they might be touched often, it’s best to use small mounting clips as well.
- For power supply, I use a small plug-in power adapter that is easy to hide.
- To increase convenience, I connected a small control unit with a remote that allows dimming.
- Inside the unit, I mounted the strips on the inner sidewalls so the light is indirect and doesn’t cause glare.
Installation was straightforward, but you’ll need a small soldering iron if you want to adjust the length of the strips.
If you don’t have soldering experience, there are also plug connectors for LED strips that simply snap together.
emmaju schrieb:
For the interior, I mounted the molding on the inside edges of the side walls, so the light is indirect and doesn’t cause glare.That’s a good suggestion. Additionally, I would like to mention cable management: it’s advisable to create a plan before installation to route the cables along corner joints and conceal them inside channels or conduit tubing. This not only protects the cables but also enhances the overall appearance.
Also, if your Hemnes cabinet is painted, be careful not to use metal screws that might rust. Instead, use screws with stainless steel coating or screws specially designed for furniture with a painted finish.
If you choose dimmable LEDs, keep in mind that you must select a compatible dimmer to avoid flickering.
Electrical safety should not be overlooked. Therefore, it is recommended to use a power supply with surge protection, especially in furniture located in living areas.
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