ᐅ IKEA Besta: How do I install an indoor LED dimmer?

Created on: 11 May 2024 08:13
K
Kargerson
K
Kargerson
11 May 2024 08:13
Hello everyone,

I am considering retrofitting LED lighting with dimming functionality inside my IKEA Besta sideboard. The LEDs should be able to be switched on and off as well as dimmed, ideally with a stepless control.

It is important to me that the installation remains as discreet as possible, with neat wiring running behind the cabinet, and that the control can be implemented without major technical effort.

My question: What types of LED dimmers are suitable for interior lighting in the Besta, and how can they be professionally installed? Which LED light sources work best (12V, 230V, LED strips?), and how do you properly combine dimmers, power supplies, and LEDs? Are there LED lighting options that can be integrated directly into the Besta or special kits for such projects?

I look forward to tips, experiences, and preferably a step-by-step guide. Thanks!
J
Joshbe
11 May 2024 09:07
Hello,

for retrofitting LED dimming inside an IKEA Besta unit, I recommend the following approach:

- 12V LED strips are especially suitable for the Besta, as they are flexible and compatible with low-voltage power supplies.
- Use a dimmable 12V power supply (PWM dimming) to avoid flickering.
- Dimming is controlled via a PWM dimmer placed between the power supply and the LED strip.
- Mount the LEDs using 3M adhesive tape or special profiles that can be fixed inside the Besta.
- It is best to run the wiring along the back panel to keep the appearance clean.

Some manufacturers offer complete kits with dimmable LED strips and matching dimmers, which makes installation easier. Alternatively, simple in-line dimmers operated by a rotary knob or remote control can be used.

It is important to check compatibility (voltage, power) and observe polarity before connecting everything.
I
INGRID34
11 May 2024 09:45
LED strips operating at 12V work best. Use a PWM dimmer between the power supply and the LED. Route the cables preferably at the back of the cabinet.
N
nojaus
11 May 2024 10:12
I initially had concerns about dimmability and the effort required with the electrical installation. In the end, it helped me to take the time to find the right solution. The LED strips are great, but choosing the correct dimmer is really crucial – some flicker without PWM.

If you put in the effort, the result is definitely worth it. Keep us updated on how it goes for you!
D
Domau0
11 May 2024 11:35
Regarding LED dimming inside an IKEA Besta furniture unit, I would like to go into more detail. The most important point before installation is the electrical setup:

- The LEDs used in Besta are usually 12V, which reduces risk and simplifies the installation.

- The power supply should be dimmable; ideally, stable 12V switching power supplies with PWM (pulse width modulation) are used since traditional phase-cut dimmers do not work reliably with LEDs.

- Control can be done simply with a rotary dimmer or wirelessly.

- The dimmer is connected between the power supply and the LED strip; make sure the maximum current of the LED strip is not exceeded.

- LEDs can be mounted as flexible strips with a self-adhesive backing or inside aluminum profiles. Aluminum profiles also help with heat dissipation.

- Route cables behind the back panel, preferably secured with cable channels or clips.

- For indoor installation, I recommend performing a power and voltage calculation in advance to avoid unwanted brightness fluctuations.

What is your current status? Which LEDs are you considering so far?
K
Kargerson
11 May 2024 12:02
Domau0 schrieb:
What is your current status? Which LEDs are you considering?

Thanks for the detailed explanation! At the moment, I’m looking at 12V LED strips, as they are the most common and seem to be quite flexible in use. However, I am unsure whether to choose a traditional rotary dimmer or a digital version with remote control.

The Besta is a lowboard, about 60cm (24 inches) high, with the interior visible only through the doors. I can run power along the outside. Now my question:

- Is a digital (wireless) dimmer worthwhile in terms of installation and technical aspects?
- Are there any compatibility disadvantages with digital dimmers compared to analog versions?

The goal is an almost invisible setup with comfortable operation.