General Rope Light FAQ's

Rope light FAQ's

There have been quite a few questions about different types of rope light and applications so I hope this article is helpful for you to select the right rope light for the job. Here is a list of frequently asked questions and I will try to answer them here so you can read and gain a full understanding about rope lights.

Why are led rope lights so expensive?

led rope light bulbs are manufactured differently than incandescent and krypton bulbs. The led light bulb is a solid state light bulb without a filament. The manufacturing process is more expensive for led lights so that is the main reason why the led rope light is more expensive.

If led rope light is more expensive, why do you even sell it?

Led rope lights have some key benefits that regular rope lights do not have. Led light bulbs make little to no heat when lighted, so heat will never be a concern and it allows the rope light to be placed into confined spaces where traditional rope light can not be placed. Additionally led rope lights are rated for 10 years where traditional rope light is rated for 2 years.

When do you recommend using led rope light?

We recommend led rope light be used in all commercial applications. This way you will not need to replace the rope light for years reducing maintenance costs! We also suggest using led rope light in confined spaces and in places where rope light might be laying on a surface.

If led rope lights are this great, why do you still sell incandescent rope lights?

Regular rope lights cost less for people who do not want to make the large upfront investment. Regular rope light has also been around longer and when a system is already installed people are looking for replacement products.

You mentioned the lifetime in the rope light, can you explain how it factors into cost over time?

Yes, regular rope light is rated for 25,000 hours. Led rope light is rated for 100,000 hours. So you will need to purchase 4 times more regular rope light to equal the life of led rope light.

What about power consumption?

Led bulbs use less than 1 watt per foot in power. Traditional rope light uses close to 3 watts of light per foot. So led is the energy efficient choice.

If led rope light uses less watts, will it be dimmer?

No, watts is a measurement of power, lumens is a measurement of light. Led rope lights have more lumens than traditional rope light does. So actually led rope light is brighter.

Is there a difference between 3/8 inch rope light and 1/2 inch rope light as far as light output?

No, the only difference is the pvc covering is thinner.

Why would you suggest using the 3/8 rope light?

I suggest you try to use the 3/8 inch rope light because it weighs less, is more flexible and has a better bend radius. Use 1/2 inch rope light for applications where you are replacing rope light

Where should I use lower voltage rope light?

You should use 12 volt rope light or 24 volt rope light rope light when you plan on powering the rope light on batteries. Some good examples are rope light on boats, cars, etc.

If I want a color changing rope light, what is a good product to use?

RGB led rope light is great for that application and so is our chasing rope light.

If I am replacing an existing rope light installation where the rope light has melted, browned, or been damaged due to heat, what rope light should I use?

Use led rope light, if there is obvious heat damage, then you will need led rope light so it will not happen in the future.

Can I cut rope light?

I suggest you consult with an electrician on this to check your local building code. Never cut rope light that is plugged in.

Is rope light UL listed?

Yes, most rope light is UL listed. You have to be aware because some of the cheaper brands may have non UL listed rope light products.

Please certainly contact me with any other questions which may arise!

-Mike
www.backbaylighting.com