ᐅ IKEA Besta DIY: How can I build shelves with additional lighting?
Created on: 22 Sep 2018 10:12
R
Renron
Hello everyone, I am planning to build an IKEA Besta shelving unit myself and integrate additional lighting. My question is: what is the best way to add illuminated shelves within the Besta system?
I have done some research and know that LED strips are a common solution, but I am uncertain about how to neatly wire them, connect the power supply, and integrate the lighting into the shelving both safely and aesthetically. Are there any tips on choosing the lights, connecting to the mains power (e.g., power adapters, switches), and how to keep the installation as simple yet professional as possible?
I look forward to your experiences and suggestions!
I have done some research and know that LED strips are a common solution, but I am uncertain about how to neatly wire them, connect the power supply, and integrate the lighting into the shelving both safely and aesthetically. Are there any tips on choosing the lights, connecting to the mains power (e.g., power adapters, switches), and how to keep the installation as simple yet professional as possible?
I look forward to your experiences and suggestions!
I recommend using flexible stranded cables for wiring inside the Besta shelving unit, as they are easier to install and less prone to damage. Additionally, the power supply should be provided by a certified 12V power adapter – cheap adapters from China may pose safety risks.
Ideally, the LEDs should be controlled via a separate switch or dimmer installed between the power adapter and the LED strips. This allows for convenient operation of the installation and makes it relatively easy to dismantle.
Ideally, the LEDs should be controlled via a separate switch or dimmer installed between the power adapter and the LED strips. This allows for convenient operation of the installation and makes it relatively easy to dismantle.
What is often overlooked: heat generation. Even though LED strips remain relatively cool, they should not be attached directly to plastic surfaces without a way to dissipate heat.
I used thin aluminum channels to mount the LEDs. These channels act as heat sinks and also provide a neat appearance. This significantly extends the lifespan of the LEDs.
I used thin aluminum channels to mount the LEDs. These channels act as heat sinks and also provide a neat appearance. This significantly extends the lifespan of the LEDs.
BEATE schrieb:
It’s best to buy LED strips with 12V voltage. Choose a power supply that provides enough amperage.Thank you, that’s a helpful technical tip. How do I calculate the right power supply exactly? For example, I plan to light four shelves, each with about 1 meter (3.3 feet) of LED strip.
Also, are there differences in brightness or light color to consider when the shelves are used for books and decorative items?
Renron schrieb:
Are there differences in brightness or light color to consider when shelves are used for books and decorations?Definitely! For books, I prefer a cooler white light (around 4000K), as it looks clear and helps with readability. For decorations or mood lighting, warm white (2700K to 3000K) is much more pleasant and cozy.
Regarding brightness: you can either look at the lumen rating or the wattage per meter (about 4.8 to 14.4 W/m) for common LED strips – the power supply should provide at least 20-30% more output than the total consumption to avoid overload!
Renron schrieb:
How do I exactly calculate the right power supply?Quick rule of thumb: watts per meter of LED strip multiplied by the number of meters. Example: 5W per meter × 4 meters = 20W. Then choose a 24W power supply or higher to have some reserve.
And regarding the colors: you should opt for the correct white, otherwise your decorations will look quite odd 😄. Especially on wooden surfaces, cool white quickly appears sterile.
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