How to change RV lights to LEDs

LED lights in your trailer, fifth wheel or RV will reduce battery usage while making your living space brighter and more inviting. If your unit still has incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, there are several easy ways to change them to LED lighting. Here’s what you need to know about LED lighting in your RV.

Advantages of LED lighting

LED stands for light emitting diode. This type of lighting provides several benefits over older modes. LEDs are the most energy-efficient lighting available, typically using less than half the energy of standard incandescent bulbs. They have a longer lifespan, lasting up to 10,000 hours compared with the incandescent bulb’s few hundred hours. And because they’re made of durable plastic instead of glass, the bulbs won’t break and shatter.

Plus, unlike compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs, LEDs contain no mercury.

Changing RV lights to LEDs

There are three ways to upgrade your RV with LEDs:

• Replace your existing bulbs. LEDs come in various shapes and sizes that fit just about any existing light fixture. However, fixtures in RVs tend to use smaller-sized bulbs, so ensure the LED you purchase will fit. Remember that LEDs emit much more light than standard bulbs, so consider using a lower-lumen bulb if you don’t want your living space to be too bright.

• Replace your fixtures. You may want to change the entire fixture if it’s old and outdated. However, you may have trouble finding an exact match and rely on paint touch-ups or mouldings to make it look good. An RV light fixture sometimes runs on AC power instead of DC, which requires an inverter that can reduce efficiency. A new DC fixture will improve efficiency but may require some electrical rewiring.

• Retrofit using LED strips. LED strips are an easy and inexpensive way to upgrade your lighting. You can buy five-metre rolls for around $10 and cut them to any size using scissors. The light strips have an adhesive on one side, so you can stick them anywhere. They’re perfect for under-cabinet lighting where you can’t see them. You can also remove the bulbs and wiring from existing fixtures and replace them with light strips.

Towing, truck and trailer accessories in Barrie, Scarborough and Mississauga

At Hitch City, we’re your one-stop shop for towing, trailer and fifth wheel accessories. We also carry a wide range of truck accessories, sport racks and bike carriers to help you enjoy your next adventure. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services.