How Much Does It Cost to Run LED Strip Lights?
Many homeowners are surprised by how little electricity LED strip lights consume.
Compared to traditional lighting, LEDs are among the most energy-efficient lighting technologies available.
Example Calculation
Let's use a common 24V LED strip consuming 14.4 watts per metre.
A 5 metre installation would consume:
72 watts total
If operated for 5 hours per day:
72W × 5 hours = 360Wh
This equals 0.36 kWh per day.
Estimated Running Costs
Assuming electricity costs 30p per kWh:
0.36 × £0.30 = approximately 11p per day
That's roughly:
- £0.11 per day
- £3.30 per month
- £40 per year
Why LEDs Save Money
LEDs convert more electricity into light and less into heat.
This means:
- Lower energy bills
- Reduced waste
- Longer lifespan
- Lower replacement costs
RGB vs White LED Strips
RGB strips can use slightly more power when displaying bright white colours because multiple LED channels may operate simultaneously.
However, the difference is generally small for home installations.
Are LED Strips Worth It?
For most households, LED strip lights offer an excellent balance between visual impact and running costs.
Whether you're lighting a kitchen, bedroom, gaming setup, or garden feature, modern LED strips provide impressive efficiency without significantly affecting electricity bills.