Can I hardwire 12v light to my 110v house wires?

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    12v Light Wires
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility and safety of hardwiring 12V LED lights to existing 110V house wiring, including the necessary equipment and considerations for such a modification.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the possibility of using 12V LED lights with 110V wiring, suggesting a converter may be necessary.
  • Another participant questions whether the LED lights require an AC or DC supply, noting that both types are available and suggesting the appropriate transformer based on the requirement.
  • A participant confirms that the LED lights require a DC12V input and expresses the intention to hardwire them, indicating a need for a 110VAC to DC12V transformer.
  • Another response reiterates the need for a DC12V transformer and emphasizes the importance of ensuring it has a sufficient output current rating for the LED lights.
  • A later reply warns about the potential risks of hardwiring to mains supply, suggesting that it may void home fire insurance and recommending the use of a plug-in transformer instead.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the safety and practicality of hardwiring the lights, with some advocating for the use of a transformer while others caution against hardwiring due to potential insurance issues. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions regarding the electrical requirements of the LED lights and the implications of hardwiring them, as well as the potential consequences for home insurance that are not fully explored.

greggo
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I have a strand of 12v led lights that I'd like to use as under mount lights for my kitchen cabinets. Is there a way to hook the lights up to my existing 110v wiring assuming there is a converter necessary?
 
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do the LED light units require an AC or DC supply ?
they are available in both versions

if AC, then you would need a 110V to 12V transformer plug pack ( wallwart)
if DC then a 110VAC to 12VDC transformer plug pack ( wallwart)

have you got a link to the type of LED light units you have so we can make a more informed response ?

cheers
Dave
 
It requires a DC12V input. Before, I used a 9V wall plug, but now I'm wanting to hard wire them. So I guess I need the 110VAC to DC12V transformer?
 
greggo said:
It requires a DC12V input. Before, I used a 9V wall plug, but now I'm wanting to hard wire them. So I guess I need the 110VAC to DC12V transformer?

Yep. Just look for the DC 12V output wall transformer that has a high enough output current rating to supply the needed current to your LED string.
 
Perfect. Thank you.
 
I assume you are not a licensed electrician so anything you hard wire into your mains supply will void your home fire insurance. Best to stick with a plug in tranny
 

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