{"id":3756,"date":"2020-03-26T16:29:28","date_gmt":"2020-03-26T23:29:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/?p=3756"},"modified":"2022-09-15T09:09:14","modified_gmt":"2022-09-15T16:09:14","slug":"install-led-strip-lights-rv-awning","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/install-led-strip-lights-rv-awning\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Install LED Strip Lights on Your RV Awning"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Whether you\u2019re replacing the LED light strip on your RV awning or installing a brand new one, I\u2019ll take you step-by-step through the process. DIY projects like this can seem daunting \u2013 it sure did for me \u2013 but don\u2019t worry, with the right tools and know-how it\u2019s really not that hard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>To install LEDs on your RV awning you&#8217;ll start by choosing the right LED strip lights, then measure and cut to size, and install the strips under the awning or on the awning roller. Once that\u2019s done, you just have to wire them into existing power.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s definitely a few things I wish I\u2019d known before trying to install LEDs. My husband and I decided to surprise his parents with new LED strip lights on their motorhome last year, and first and foremost it would have helped to know what tools we needed ahead of time. I hope to save you some of the headaches that we went through with this guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_163473004_2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3759\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_163473004_2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_163473004_2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_163473004_2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_163473004_2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Photo ID 163473004 \u00a9 Sergey Nemirovsky | Dreamstime.com<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6612100b33e29\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #5d7772;color:#5d7772\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #5d7772;color:#5d7772\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\"  id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-6612100b33e29\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\" \/><nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/install-led-strip-lights-rv-awning\/#Selecting_LED_Strip_Lights_for_an_RV_Awning\" title=\"Selecting LED Strip Lights for an RV Awning\">Selecting LED Strip Lights for an RV Awning<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/install-led-strip-lights-rv-awning\/#Installing_LED_Strip_Lights\" title=\"Installing LED Strip Lights\">Installing LED Strip Lights<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/install-led-strip-lights-rv-awning\/#Fix_It_Yourself_RV_Maintenance_Course\" title=\"Fix It Yourself RV Maintenance Course\">Fix It Yourself RV Maintenance Course<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/install-led-strip-lights-rv-awning\/#Wiring_and_Powering_LED_Strip_Lights_Under_an_RV_Awning\" title=\"Wiring and Powering LED Strip Lights Under an RV Awning\">Wiring and Powering LED Strip Lights Under an RV Awning<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/install-led-strip-lights-rv-awning\/#Alternatives_to_Installing_LED_Strip_Lights\" title=\"Alternatives to Installing LED Strip Lights\">Alternatives to Installing LED Strip Lights<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/install-led-strip-lights-rv-awning\/#Closing_Thoughts\" title=\"Closing Thoughts\">Closing Thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Selecting_LED_Strip_Lights_for_an_RV_Awning\"><\/span>Selecting LED Strip Lights for an RV Awning<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When deciding on what lights to go with, most people initially look at cost. I did, and I found that when it comes to value you get what you pay for with most of these lights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The $15 strip may be much more appealing to your wallet than the $55 strip, but the $55 strip is more likely to be outdoor rated, have higher lumens, and come with helpful accessories like an adhesive back or a protective channel. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some companies will even pre-cut the strips before shipping them to you to meet your specific RV\u2019s dimensions. These are all important things to consider when you\u2019re looking at lights, and you\u2019ll thank yourself later for getting a quality product now.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are also many bonus features you can browse and consider when looking at lights. For example, I went with multicolor lights that can be controlled through a remote because I liked the ambiance they created and the convenience of the remote.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find single-color light strips with remotes as well, and even ones that connect to apps over Bluetooth or WiFi. You can get lights that are sound-sensitive and will pulse and dance when music is playing, and no matter you\u2019re style and preference you can probably find a product to match your needs.  These <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07Z4ZRNPP?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" target=\"_blank\">LED strip lights<\/a> from Amazon have more features than you can imagine! <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"aawp\">\n\n            \n            \n<div class=\"aawp-product aawp-product--horizontal aawp-product--css-adjust-image-large\"  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B07Z4ZRNPP\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13565\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Nexillumi 50Ft Music Sync Color Changing LED Strip Lights with Remote App Control and Built-in Mic  APP+Remote+Mic\">\n\n    \n    <div class=\"aawp-product__thumb\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__image-link\"\n           href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07Z4ZRNPP?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Nexillumi 50Ft Music Sync Color Changing LED Strip Lights with Remote, App Control, and Built-in Mic...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aawp-product__image\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51+9Dg1XRZL.jpg\" alt=\"Nexillumi 50Ft Music Sync Color Changing LED Strip Lights with Remote, App Control, and Built-in Mic...\"  \/>\n        <\/a>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__content\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07Z4ZRNPP?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Nexillumi 50Ft Music Sync Color Changing LED Strip Lights with Remote, App Control, and Built-in Mic...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            Nexillumi 50Ft Music Sync Color Changing LED Strip Lights with Remote, App Control, and Built-in Mic...        <\/a>\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__description\">\n            <ul><li>Adjustable Lighting: Download the 'illumi home' app to adjust brightness, change colors, and control the LED strip lights<\/li><li>Easy Installation: Comes with upgraded double-sided tape for easy mounting without tools<\/li><li>Safe and Reliable: UL listed power adapter and cords meet strict safety standards and automatically shut down if overloaded<\/li><\/ul>        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__footer\">\n\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__pricing\">\n            \n            \n            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/prime\/?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Amazon Prime\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"aawp-check-prime\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/aawp\/assets\/img\/icon-check-prime.svg\" height=\"16\" width=\"55\" alt=\"Amazon Prime\" \/><\/a>        <\/div>\n\n                <a class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07Z4ZRNPP?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n    \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Installing_LED_Strip_Lights\"><\/span>Installing LED Strip Lights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>It doesn\u2019t matter if you\u2019re installing your strip lights under the RV\u2019s awning or along the roller, you\u2019re going to need to clean the surface first. You can use a household cleaner, alcohol, or even just water, but any dirt and grime on the awning will prevent your lights from sticking and affect their lifespan.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once the surface is clean, then you have to measure and cut the lights to size. When cutting LED light strips make sure you only cut in the designated areas on the strip \u2013 otherwise you risk damaging lights. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>These areas are typically marked by copper pads aligned in rows, though your user manual for your lights will be able to tell you for sure. You shouldn\u2019t need more than a ladder, a tape measure, and a sharp pair of household scissors to get the lights measured and cut, and then you\u2019re ready to place them.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_50867231_2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3761\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_50867231_2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_50867231_2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_50867231_2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_50867231_2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Photo ID 50867231 | \u00a9 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamstime.com\/izanbar_info\" target=\"_blank\">Izanbar<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamstime.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Dreamstime.com<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Most light strips will come with some form of adhesive backing for mounting, but if you want something that will last a little longer you may want to put down a strip of double-sided outdoor tape where you\u2019re going to put the lights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Scotch (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0083K36KA?tag=lifeonroute02-20,aps,231&amp;sr=8-8&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=lifeonroute02-20&amp;linkId=90aed643326443363cf48704fae157f9&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\">Scotch<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01MXL9YJV?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" target=\"_blank\">3M<\/a> (links to Amazon) both have high-rated exterior tape that\u2019ll get the job done, and 3M has an <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"adhesive primer (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0088P06AS?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" target=\"_blank\">adhesive primer<\/a> (see on Amazon) that helps your tape stick better. Most LED strips are half-inch wide, so if you end up getting one-inch tape just plan to cut it in half.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re replacing an existing LED light strip on your RV\u2019s awning, you\u2019ll want to cut the wires going to the old strip as close to the LEDs as possible.  This leaves plenty of wire to attach to the new lights.  Make sure power to the LEDs is OFF before you start snipping wires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next, carefully remove the old strip from the RV or awning, making sure you get as much of the old adhesive off as you can. Using a product like <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Goo-Gone (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B07PW7J8QG?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" target=\"_blank\">Goo-Gone<\/a> (Amazon Link) will help remove any leftover tape residue, just clean the surface well afterward so your new tape sticks properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Things you\u2019ll need:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Ladder<\/li><li>Scissors<\/li><li>Wire cutters (if replacing)<\/li><li>Double-sided tape (optional)<\/li><li>LED lights<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Installing Under the RV Awning (Along the Body of the RV)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For this approach, you\u2019ll want to install the LED strip below the awning reel along the body of the RV. The advantage of placing the lights here compared to the edge of the roller is you can still use them even when the awning is closed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p> You\u2019ll need your ladder but this part is usually pretty easy. When measuring, you probably want to stop an inch or so from the edge of the awning. So cut your light strip and adhesive tape about 2 inches shorter than the total length of your awning. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To get your strip lights evening placed measure down your desired amount from the bottom of the awning.  Do this with the awning closed. Make a mark at either end then draw a line between these two marks.  A chalk line will make this easy but it&#8217;s not necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are using adhesive tape place the tape on the camper&#8217;s body following the line you just marked. Then you can remove the backing from the light strip and carefully mount the lights onto the tape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Installing on the RV Awning Roller (End of the Awning)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you install your RV awning lights along the awning roller, i.e. the end of the awning, you will only be able to use the lights when the awning is fully extended. This is because the lights will be covered by the unrolled awning fabric if it&#8217;s not fully extended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The advantage is you have more options of where you can direct the light based upon where you place the stript on the awning roller. Again you&#8217;ll want to leave about an inch of space from either end of the awning roller when you install your light strip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Obviously, you&#8217;ll need your awning fulling extended for this install but depending on your awning, you may not need a ladder to easily access the roller tube.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you&#8217;ve decided where you want your LEDs placed you can install your double-sided tape along the awning roller.  Again to ensure the LEDs are installed evenly it&#8217;s helpful to mark a line along the roller you can follow with your tape. Once you have your tape set, peel the backing off the LED strip and mount it to the line of tape. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group__inner-container\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Fix_It_Yourself_RV_Maintenance_Course\"><\/span>Fix It Yourself RV Maintenance Course<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The most costly parts of RV ownership are repairs and maintenance. That\u2019s why I recommend learning to do your own RV repair and maintenance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The&nbsp;<a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" data-wpil=\"url\" href=\"https:\/\/fixityourself.teachable.com\/p\/fixityourselfinfo?affcode=331360_eqfh4r3u\" target=\"_blank\">Fix It Yourself RV Maintenance Course<\/a>&nbsp;is the perfect way to learn how to do the most common repairs and maintenance on your RV. A Certified RV Technician wrote and filmed the course so you know the information is actually correct.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plus it\u2019s downloadable so you can access it from anywhere, even when boondocking in the middle of nowhere with no service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Find out more about the best&nbsp;<a data-wpil=\"url\" href=\"https:\/\/fixityourself.teachable.com\/p\/fixityourselfinfo?affcode=331360_eqfh4r3u\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">RV Maintenance and Repair Course available<\/a>!<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter\"><a href=\"https:\/\/fixityourself.teachable.com\/p\/fixityourselfinfo?affcode=331360_eqfh4r3u\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"631\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/FIY-blog-image-1024x631.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4662\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/FIY-blog-image-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/FIY-blog-image-300x185.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/FIY-blog-image-768x473.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/FIY-blog-image.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-layout-1 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-text-color has-background\" href=\"https:\/\/fixityourself.teachable.com\/p\/fixityourselfinfo?affcode=331360_eqfh4r3u\" style=\"background-color:#9f384c;color:#ffffff\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Learn to Fix Your RV Yourself<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Wiring_and_Powering_LED_Strip_Lights_Under_an_RV_Awning\"><\/span>Wiring and Powering LED Strip Lights Under an RV Awning<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many ways you can go about powering your newly-installed LED strip lights. If you are replacing old LEDs you have it easy \u2013 you just have to strip the wires where you cut them by the old strip to expose the metal ends, then you can use a soldering iron to attach them directly to the copper pads of the new LED strip or you can use a connector. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you need some help soldering your wires onto the light check out our video below where we changed one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/how-to-change-rv-lights-to-leds\/\"  rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"lights over the LEDs (opens in a new tab)\">lights over the LEDs<\/a>.  You can follow the same steps for soldering the wires onto your new strips lights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"How To Change RV Lights To LED - RV Lighting Ideas\" width=\"640\" height=\"360\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/lrVuUssizjs?start=219&#038;feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The connector you need will depend on the LED lights you bought, check the user manual and the product listing for what type of connectors your can use. The only exception is if you\u2019re putting in a module for a remote-controlled or color-changing strip when you didn\u2019t have one previously, then you\u2019ll have to run a wire to the electrical control panel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are installing an LED light strip on your awning or awning roller for the first time, you\u2019ll have to decide what power source you want to use for your LEDs. If you have a porch light you may be able to wire the strip to the existing porch light wires but this means the porch light will need to be on in order for your LEDs to work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to run a longer wire you could possibly thread it through the same hole the porch light wires come through and attach it directly to the battery or another 12V power feed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If that won\u2019t work or you don\u2019t have a porch light, you may need to drill a hole into the compartment with your battery for the wires to run through. If you do have to drill a hole make sure you weatherproof it when you\u2019re done with silicone sealant, and make sure all wire connections are insulated with heat-shrink sleeves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind your LED strip lights may come with a power adapter but will function normally if wired to a 12V source.  This means you will not need that chunky power block that came with your lights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For those who are looking to install LEDs on the awning roller, your best bet is to run an insulated wire down the extension arm of the awning and back to where you can hardwire it in. You would have to take care to ensure the wire isn\u2019t pinched by the arm when you roll the awning in, but otherwise you should be good.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Things you\u2019ll potentially need:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul><li>Ladder<\/li><li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B06XZ31W3M?tag=lifeonroute02-20,aps,227&amp;linkCode=ll1&amp;tag=lifeonroute02-20&amp;linkId=edb49bd22e22371384e58a8642f1a2a4&amp;language=en_US\" target=\"_blank\">Soldering iron<\/a> (Amazon Link) &#8211; this is a simple kit with everything you need<\/li><li>Wire connectors<\/li><li>Flexible conduit for exposed external wires<\/li><li>Heat-shrinking wire tubing<\/li><li>Silicone sealant<\/li><li><a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"Voltmeter (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01NAVAT9S?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" target=\"_blank\">Voltmeter<\/a> (Amazon Link) &#8211; my favorite tool for check if there is power or not<\/li><li>Wire strippers<\/li><li>Terminal connectors<\/li><li>Patience, if you\u2019re as far from an electrician as I am<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"aawp\">\n\n    <table class=\"aawp-table\">\n        <thead>\n            <tr>\n                                <th class=\"aawp-table__th-thumb\">Preview<\/th>\n                <th class=\"aawp-table__th-title\">Product<\/th>\n                                                <th class=\"aawp-table__th-links\"><\/th>\n            <\/tr>\n        <\/thead>\n        <tbody>\n                    \n            <tr class=\"aawp-product aawp-product--css-adjust-image-large\"  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B06XZ31W3M\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13566\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"ANBES Soldering Iron Kit Electronics 60W Adjustable Temperature Welding Tool 5pcs Soldering Tips Desoldering Pump Soldering Iron Stand Tweezers\">\n                                <td class=\"aawp-table__td-thumb\" data-label=\"Preview\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B06XZ31W3M?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"ANBES Soldering Iron Kit Electronics, 60W Adjustable Temperature Welding Tool, 5pcs Soldering Tips,...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aawp-product__img\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51AdzbMBz9L.jpg\" alt=\"ANBES Soldering Iron Kit Electronics, 60W Adjustable Temperature Welding Tool, 5pcs Soldering Tips,...\"  \/>\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/td>\n                <td class=\"aawp-table__td-title\" data-label=\"Product\">\n                    <a class=\"aawp-product__title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B06XZ31W3M?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"ANBES Soldering Iron Kit Electronics, 60W Adjustable Temperature Welding Tool, 5pcs Soldering Tips,...\"\n                       rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">ANBES Soldering Iron Kit Electronics, 60W Adjustable Temperature Welding Tool, 5pcs Soldering...                    <\/a>\n                <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"aawp-table__td-links\" data-label=\"Link\">\n                    <a class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B06XZ31W3M?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a>                <\/td>\n            <\/tr>\n\n                    \n            <tr class=\"aawp-product aawp-product--ribbon aawp-product--sale aawp-product--css-adjust-image-large\"  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B01NAVAT9S\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13567\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Neoteck Auto Ranging Digital Multimeter AC\/DC Voltage Current Ohm Capacitance Frequency Diode Transistor Audible Continuity Multi Tester with Backlit LCD\">\n                                <td class=\"aawp-table__td-thumb\" data-label=\"Preview\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01NAVAT9S?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Neoteck Auto Ranging Digital Multimeter AC\/DC Voltage Current Ohm Capacitance Frequency Diode...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aawp-product__img\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/51PZUvYOcrL.jpg\" alt=\"Neoteck Auto Ranging Digital Multimeter AC\/DC Voltage Current Ohm Capacitance Frequency Diode...\"  \/>\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/td>\n                <td class=\"aawp-table__td-title\" data-label=\"Product\">\n                    <a class=\"aawp-product__title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01NAVAT9S?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Neoteck Auto Ranging Digital Multimeter AC\/DC Voltage Current Ohm Capacitance Frequency Diode...\"\n                       rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">Neoteck Auto Ranging Digital Multimeter AC\/DC Voltage Current Ohm Capacitance Frequency Diode...                    <\/a>\n                <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"aawp-table__td-links\" data-label=\"Link\">\n                    <a class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01NAVAT9S?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a>                <\/td>\n            <\/tr>\n\n                    \n            <tr class=\"aawp-product aawp-product--ribbon aawp-product--sale aawp-product--css-adjust-image-large\"  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B00080DPNQ\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13568\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Klein Tools 11055 Wire Cutter and Wire Stripper Made in Usa Stranded Wire Cutter Solid Wire Cutter Cuts Copper Wire\">\n                                <td class=\"aawp-table__td-thumb\" data-label=\"Preview\">\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00080DPNQ?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Klein Tools 11055 Wire Cutter and Wire Stripper, Made in Usa, Stranded Wire Cutter, Solid Wire...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n                        <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aawp-product__img\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41Kk5ZUHcXL.jpg\" alt=\"Klein Tools 11055 Wire Cutter and Wire Stripper, Made in Usa, Stranded Wire Cutter, Solid Wire...\"  \/>\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/td>\n                <td class=\"aawp-table__td-title\" data-label=\"Product\">\n                    <a class=\"aawp-product__title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00080DPNQ?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Klein Tools 11055 Wire Cutter and Wire Stripper, Made in Usa, Stranded Wire Cutter, Solid Wire...\"\n                       rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">Klein Tools 11055 Wire Cutter and Wire Stripper, Made in Usa, Stranded Wire Cutter, Solid Wire...                    <\/a>\n                <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"aawp-table__td-links\" data-label=\"Link\">\n                    <a class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B00080DPNQ?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a>                <\/td>\n            <\/tr>\n\n                <\/tbody>\n    <\/table>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Alternatives_to_Installing_LED_Strip_Lights\"><\/span>Alternatives to Installing LED Strip Lights<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_110482306_2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_110482306_2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_110482306_2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_110482306_2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_110482306_2.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Photo ID 110482306 | \u00a9 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamstime.com\/poppylynn_info\" target=\"_blank\">Lori Lynn Sadelack<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dreamstime.com\/\" target=\"_blank\">Dreamstime.com<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re looking for outdoor lighting that is a little less permanent, you can also consider string lights, rope light or patio lanterns. These would plug into your exterior outlet and hang on the awning. They would be easily removable if you need to quickly bring your awning in for conditions like wind or other bad weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Camco makes <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0006IX7W4?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">awning hanger clips<\/a> (Amazon Link) that you attach directly to the awning roller. They slide into the awning channel and you add hooks on to hang your lights. You can quickly remove the hooks and retract your awning with the hanger clips still installed. But I wouldn&#8217;t recommend leaving the hangers rolled up for long periods of time since they could leave indents in your awning fabric.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"aawp\">\n\n            \n            \n<div class=\"aawp-product aawp-product--horizontal aawp-product--ribbon aawp-product--sale aawp-product--css-adjust-image-large\"  data-aawp-product-asin=\"B0006IX7W4\" data-aawp-product-id=\"13569\" data-aawp-tracking-id=\"lifeonroute02-20\" data-aawp-product-title=\"Camco Gray RV Party Light Holder - Easily Slides Into Awning Roller Bar Channel Each Hanger Supports Up to 15 lbs - 7 Pack  42693\">\n\n    <span class=\"aawp-product__ribbon aawp-product__ribbon--sale\">Sale<\/span>\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__thumb\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__image-link\"\n           href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0006IX7W4?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Camco Gray RV Party Light Holder - Easily Slides Into Awning Roller Bar Channel, Each Hanger...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aawp-product__image\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/41PDiaMgkKL.jpg\" alt=\"Camco Gray RV Party Light Holder - Easily Slides Into Awning Roller Bar Channel, Each Hanger...\"  \/>\n        <\/a>\n\n            <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__content\">\n        <a class=\"aawp-product__title\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0006IX7W4?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Camco Gray RV Party Light Holder - Easily Slides Into Awning Roller Bar Channel, Each Hanger...\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\">\n            Camco Gray RV Party Light Holder - Easily Slides Into Awning Roller Bar Channel, Each Hanger...        <\/a>\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__description\">\n            <ul><li>Hang party lights, signs, plants and more from your RV awning roller bar.Fit Type: Universal Fit<\/li><li>Slide easily into roller bar channel<\/li><li>Supports up to 15 lbs.<\/li><\/ul>        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"aawp-product__footer\">\n\n        <div class=\"aawp-product__pricing\">\n                                                        \n            \n            <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/prime\/?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Amazon Prime\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"aawp-check-prime\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/aawp\/assets\/img\/icon-check-prime.svg\" height=\"16\" width=\"55\" alt=\"Amazon Prime\" \/><\/a>        <\/div>\n\n                <a class=\"aawp-button aawp-button--buy aawp-button aawp-button--amazon\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0006IX7W4?tag=lifeonroute02-20\" title=\"Check Latest Deals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener sponsored\">Check Latest Deals<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n    \n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<p>While string lights and rope lights are a great way to spruce up your exterior, if you\u2019re looking for a long-term solution to your outdoor lighting needs you\u2019re probably better off installing LED strip lights on your RV awning. Otherwise, you have to worry about setup, breakdown, and storage while you travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Closing_Thoughts\"><\/span><strong>Closing Thoughts<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Installing LED strip lights under your awning or on your awning roller is a great DIY project that\u2019s not too hard with the right tools. Just measure your awning, cut and mount your lights, wire them in, and you can start enjoying your newly-lit outdoor living space. A much harder project is<a href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/shorten-an-rv-awning\/\"  rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"> shortening your RV awning<\/a>, which is still very doable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you are looking for more info on how your RV awnings work then check out my guide about <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"how mechanical and electrical awnings function (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/how-an-rv-awning-works\/\" >how mechanical and electrical awnings function<\/a>. Or if you want more ideas on great DIY RV projects read our list of <a rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" aria-label=\"21 upgrades (opens in a new tab)\" href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/21-rv-upgrades\/\" >21 upgrades<\/a> to make to your RV.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-media-text alignwide is-stacked-on-mobile\"><figure class=\"wp-block-media-text__media\"><a href=\"https:\/\/fixityourself.teachable.com\/p\/fixityourselfinfo?affcode=331360_eqfh4r3u\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Simple-Instagram-Post-1024x1024.png\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3815 size-full\" srcset=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Simple-Instagram-Post-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Simple-Instagram-Post-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Simple-Instagram-Post-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Simple-Instagram-Post-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Simple-Instagram-Post.png 950w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure><div class=\"wp-block-media-text__content\">\n<p class=\"has-normal-font-size\"><strong><em>Fix It Yourself<\/em><\/strong> is a self-guided online course where certified RV tech Ed Wilcox walks you through all the steps you need to know to properly maintain your rig and fix problems when they come up. <a data-wpil=\"url\" href=\"https:\/\/fixityourself.teachable.com\/p\/fixityourselfinfo?affcode=331360_eqfh4r3u\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Check it out HERE<\/a>!<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether you\u2019re replacing the LED light strip on your RV awning or installing a brand new one, I\u2019ll take you step-by-step through the process. DIY projects like this can seem<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":3759,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"advgb_blocks_editor_width":"","advgb_blocks_columns_visual_guide":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[57],"tags":[],"author_meta":{"display_name":"Diane Dee","author_link":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/author\/dedavies3\/"},"featured_img":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/dreamstime_m_163473004_2-300x200.jpg","coauthors":[],"tax_additional":{"categories":{"linked":["<a href=\"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/category\/rvs\/rv-renovations\/\" class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">RV Renovations<\/a>"],"unlinked":["<span class=\"advgb-post-tax-term\">RV Renovations<\/span>"]}},"comment_count":"0","relative_dates":{"created":"Posted 4 years ago","modified":"Updated 2 years ago"},"absolute_dates":{"created":"Posted on March 26, 2020","modified":"Updated on September 15, 2022"},"absolute_dates_time":{"created":"Posted on March 26, 2020 4:29 pm","modified":"Updated on September 15, 2022 9:09 am"},"featured_img_caption":"Photo ID 163473004 \u00a9 Sergey Nemirovsky | Dreamstime.com","series_order":"","acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3756"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3756"}],"version-history":[{"count":14,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3756\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5821,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3756\/revisions\/5821"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3759"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3756"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3756"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/lifeonroute.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3756"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}