Festoon Lighting

Discover the advantages of commercial lighting with Flexible Neon's offerings. Explore the longevity, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal of festoon lighting, LED floodlights, fairy lights, and LED modules for your projects.

With festoon lighting, transforming any space into a charming and inviting area is as simple as flipping a switch. These versatile strings of light not only illuminate your surroundings but also infuse an air of magic into events, garden parties, and cosy indoor nooks. 

Embracing extra low voltage lighting within your business not only signifies a technological advancement but also embodies a strategic choice laden with a multitude of benefits. One of the foremost advantages lies in the heightened safety offered by low voltage systems. By inherently reducing electrical risks, these systems create a secure environment conducive to the well-being of both employees and customers. This is particularly true for establishments equipped with our collections, which include 12V, 24V, and 36V lighting solutions, ensuring enhanced safety across diverse business landscapes, from corporate offices to bustling retail hubs.

Furthermore, extra low voltage lighting seamlessly aligns with contemporary sustainability goals. Engineered for maximum energy efficiency, our 12V, 24V, and 36V lighting systems curtail overall energy consumption, leading to tangible reductions in operational expenditures. This not only contributes to lower costs but also positions your business as a champion of environmental stewardship. By opting for our eco-friendly lighting solutions, you demonstrate a commitment to sustainable practices, bolstering your brand reputation as a responsible custodian of the planet.

In an era where environmental consciousness is paramount, businesses that embrace our extra low voltage lighting solutions take a definitive stride towards a luminous, safer, and greener future. By prioritising safety, energy efficiency, and sustainability, you're not only illuminating your spaces but also setting a precedent for responsible and forward-thinking operational paradigms.

Festoon lighting has become a staple in outdoor decor, offering a versatile and charming way to illuminate outdoor spaces. Whether you're hosting a summer soirée, creating a cosy patio retreat, or adding ambience to your garden, festoon lighting can transform your outdoor area into a magical oasis. In this blog post, we'll explore 10 creative ways to use festoon lighting to enhance your outdoor space and create unforgettable moments under the stars.

1. String Along Fences and Railings: Drape festoon lights along fences, railings, or pergolas to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The soft glow of the lights will add depth and dimension to your outdoor space while providing practical lighting for evening gatherings.

2. Illuminate Dining Areas: Hang festoon lights above outdoor dining tables to create an intimate and cosy ambience. The soft, diffused light will set the perfect mood for alfresco dinners with family and friends, making every meal feel like a special occasion.

3. Define Outdoor Seating Areas: Use festoon lighting to define outdoor seating areas and create visual interest in your backyard. Hang lights around seating areas, such as lounge chairs or benches, to delineate the space and draw attention to cosy nooks where guests can relax and unwind.

4. Line Pathways and Walkways: Guide guests to your outdoor space by lining pathways and walkways with festoon lighting. Not only will this add a touch of whimsy to your garden, but it will also provide a safe and well-lit passage for evening strolls.

5. Create a Canopy of Lights: Hang festoon lights overhead to create a canopy of lights that casts a warm and inviting glow over your outdoor space. This creates a magical ambience reminiscent of a starry night sky, perfect for romantic evenings or festive celebrations.

6. Highlight Outdoor Features: Use festoon lighting to highlight outdoor features such as trees, shrubs, or architectural elements. By strategically placing lights around key features, you can create a focal point and add drama to your outdoor landscape.

7. Decorate Outdoor Structures: Adorn outdoor structures such as pergolas, arbours, or gazebos with festoon lighting to enhance their beauty and charm. The soft, ambient light will transform these structures into enchanting focal points that beckon guests to gather and linger.

8. Add Colour with LED Bulbs: Experiment with coloured LED bulbs to add a playful and festive touch to your outdoor space. Whether you opt for vibrant hues or soft pastels, coloured festoon lights can instantly elevate the mood and create a festive atmosphere for outdoor parties and events.

9. Create a Cosy Fire Pit Setting: Enhance the ambience of your outdoor fire pit area by pairing it with festoon lighting. Hang lights overhead to create a cosy and inviting setting where guests can gather around the fire, share stories, and enjoy each other's company late into the night.

10. Extend Outdoor Living into the Night: With festoon lighting, you can extend your outdoor living space into the night, allowing you to enjoy your garden or patio long after the sun goes down. Whether you're hosting a dinner party, relaxing with a good book, or stargazing with loved ones, festoon lighting adds warmth and charm to your outdoor retreat.

From intimate gatherings to festive celebrations, festoon lighting offers endless possibilities for enhancing your outdoor space and creating memorable moments under the stars. Whether you're looking to add ambience to a cosy patio or transform your garden into a magical oasis, festoon lighting is sure to illuminate your outdoor adventures with style and charm. So, gather your loved ones, string up some lights, and let the magic of festoon lighting bring your outdoor space to life.

When it comes to creating stunning festoon lighting displays, choosing the right E27 festoon cable is crucial. Festoon cables not only provide the electrical connection for your lights but also play a significant role in determining the spacing and layout of your lighting arrangement. With various options available, selecting the ideal festoon cable can seem daunting. In this guide, we'll explore the different types of E27 festoon cables and provide insights to help you make the right choice for your lighting project.

Understanding E27 Festoon Cable Options: E27 festoon cables come in a variety of styles and configurations, each offering unique features and benefits. However, all the cables have a 80m max single feed festoon cable length. Here's a closer look at some common options available:

1. Festoon Cable BLK E27 Flat 0.25m Spacing (mtr): This type of festoon cable features a flat design with a spacing of 0.25 meters between sockets. It is ideal for creating densely packed lighting arrangements, providing a high concentration of lights in a limited space.

2. Festoon Cable BLK E27 Flat 0.50m Spacing (mtr): Similar to the 0.25m spacing option, this festoon cable features a flat design but with a slightly wider spacing of 0.50 meters between sockets. It offers a balanced combination of coverage and spacing, suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications.

3. Festoon Cable BLK E27 Flat 0.90m Spacing (mtr): With a spacing of 0.90 meters between sockets, this festoon cable provides ample room for larger lighting fixtures and allows for a more spread-out arrangement. It is ideal for illuminating outdoor spaces such as gardens, patios, and event venues.

4. Festoon Cable BLK E27 Round 0.50m (mtr): Featuring a round design with a spacing of 0.50 meters between sockets, this festoon cable offers a classic and elegant look. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use and provides flexibility in terms of layout and configuration.

5. Festoon Cable WHT E27 Round 0.50m Spacing (mtr): Similar to the black round festoon cable, this white round festoon cable also has a spacing of 0.50 meters between sockets. It adds a touch of sophistication to any lighting display and blends seamlessly with various decor styles.

6. Festoon Cable BLK E27 Round 0.50m with 0.4m droppers (mtr): This festoon cable combines the classic round design with droppers, allowing for easy installation and adjustment of the lighting arrangement. The droppers provide additional support and stability, making it suitable for outdoor use in windy conditions.

7. Festoon Cable BLK E27 Round 0.90m with 0.4m droppers (mtr): Similar to the previous option, this festoon cable features a round design with droppers but with a wider spacing of 0.90 meters between sockets. It offers enhanced stability and coverage, making it suitable for larger outdoor spaces and events.

Choosing the Right E27 Festoon Cable: When selecting an E27 festoon cable, consider factors such as the size of the space, the desired lighting density, and the overall aesthetic you wish to achieve. For smaller areas or tightly packed arrangements, opt for cables with shorter spacing. For larger spaces or more spread-out displays, choose cables with wider spacing. Additionally, consider the durability and weather resistance of the cable, especially for outdoor applications.

E27 festoon cables are essential components of festoon lighting setups, providing the electrical connection and layout for your lighting arrangement. By understanding the different options available and considering your specific needs and preferences, you can choose the right E27 festoon cable to create stunning and memorable lighting displays for any occasion. Whether you're decorating a commercial venue, hosting an outdoor event, or adding ambience to your backyard, the wide range of E27 festoon cable options ensures that you'll find the perfect solution for your lighting project.

While festoon lighting is available in various voltages, including 12V and 240V, opting for 24V festoon lighting offers many distinct advantages. Here's why you should consider choosing 24V festoon lighting for your next lighting project:

1. Enhanced Safety: One of the primary reasons to choose 24V festoon lighting is its enhanced safety features. Compared to higher voltage options, such as 240V, 24V lighting poses a significantly lower risk of electric shock, making it safer for use in both indoor and outdoor environments. This is particularly important for installations in public spaces, events, and areas frequented by children or pets.

2. Reduced Voltage Drop: Voltage drop occurs when electricity travels through a wire, resulting in a decrease in voltage along the length of the cable. With 24V festoon lighting, you'll experience less voltage drop compared to lower voltage options like 12V. This means that your lights will maintain consistent brightness and performance over longer cable lengths, ensuring even illumination across your installation.

3. Longer Cable Runs: The use of 24V festoon lighting allows for longer cable runs without sacrificing brightness or performance. This flexibility is especially beneficial for large-scale installations or outdoor lighting setups where longer cable lengths are required to cover expansive areas. With 24V lighting, you can achieve your desired lighting design without worrying about limitations imposed by voltage drop.

4. Compatibility with LED Technology: 24V festoon lighting is well-suited for use with energy-efficient LED bulbs and fixtures. LED bulbs offer numerous advantages over traditional incandescent bulbs, including lower energy consumption, longer lifespan, and enhanced durability. By choosing 24V festoon lighting compatible with LED technology, you can enjoy the benefits of efficient and eco-friendly lighting solutions for your home, business, or event.

5. Versatile Applications: Whether you're decorating a backyard for a garden party, illuminating a wedding venue, or enhancing the ambience of a commercial space, 24V festoon lighting offers versatile applications. Its low voltage, combined with a wide range of bulb styles and cable options, makes it suitable for a variety of indoor and outdoor settings, including gardens, patios, cafés, restaurants, festivals, and more.

6. Compliance with Regulations: In Australia, electrical regulations dictate the use of low-voltage lighting solutions for certain applications, particularly in outdoor and public spaces. Choosing 24V festoon lighting ensures compliance with relevant regulations and standards, giving you peace of mind knowing that your lighting installation meets safety requirements and guidelines.

24V festoon lighting offers enhanced safety, reduced voltage drop, longer cable runs, compatibility with LED technology, versatile applications, and compliance with regulations. Whether you're a homeowner, event planner, or business owner, opting for 24V festoon lighting provides a reliable and efficient lighting solution that delivers exceptional performance and aesthetic appeal for any occasion.

Festoon lighting has become a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor lighting applications, adding a touch of charm and elegance to any space. Whether you're decorating your backyard for a summer party or illuminating a wedding venue, festoon lighting offers versatility, style, and ambience. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into everything you need to know about festoon lighting, from its history and types to installation tips and creative ideas.

1. What is Festoon Lighting? Festoon lighting, also known as string lighting or café lighting, consists of a series of bulbs suspended from a cable or wire at regular intervals. These lights are commonly used for decorative purposes in outdoor settings such as gardens, patios, weddings, festivals, and commercial spaces. Festoon lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it ideal for both intimate gatherings and large-scale events.

2. The History of Festoon Lighting: Festoon lighting has its roots in traditional outdoor lighting used for festivals, celebrations, and special occasions. Historically, festoon lights were often hung between buildings or across streets to illuminate outdoor markets and public gatherings. Over time, festoon lighting evolved from simple incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient LED lights, offering greater flexibility and durability.

3. Why Choose 24v festoon lighting? 24V festoon lighting offers enhanced safety, reduced voltage drop, longer cable runs, compatibility with LED technology, versatile applications, and compliance with regulations. Whether you're a homeowner, event planner, or business owner, opting for 24V festoon lighting provides a reliable and efficient lighting solution that delivers exceptional performance and aesthetic appeal for any occasion.

4. Types of Festoon Lighting:

• Bulb Shape and Style: Festoon lights come in a variety of bulb shapes and styles, including round, globe, teardrop, vintage Edison-style bulbs, and more. Each style offers a unique aesthetic and can be customised to suit different themes and settings.
• Cable and Wire Types: Festoon lighting cables and wires are available in various materials, including rubber, PVC, and fabric-covered options. These materials offer different levels of durability, weather resistance, and flexibility to accommodate different installation requirements.
• Bulb Spacing: Festoon lights are available with different spacing between bulbs, ranging from close spacing for a densely lit effect to wider spacing for a more subtle and ambient glow.
• Festoon Accessories: Choose from our amazing range of festoon accessories, including; white/Firetruck Red/Black Shades, Black/White droppers, Beehive lanterns, Rectangular lanterns, Cylinder lanterns, Round lanterns.

• Backyards and Gardens: Create a magical ambience for outdoor parties, BBQs, and gatherings.
• Weddings and Events: Add a romantic touch to wedding ceremonies, receptions, and special events.
• Cafés and Restaurants: Enhance outdoor dining areas with inviting and stylish lighting.
• Festivals and Markets: Illuminate outdoor festivals, markets, and fairs with festive lighting displays.
• Commercial Spaces: Enhance the exterior of businesses, storefronts, and venues with eye-catching lighting designs.

6. Choosing the Right Festoon Lighting: When selecting festoon lighting for your space, consider the following factors:

• Bulb Type and Style: Choose bulbs that complement your theme and desired ambience, whether it's vintage Edison bulbs for a rustic look or colourful LED bulbs for a festive vibe.
• Cable Length and Spacing: Measure the area you wish to illuminate and select the appropriate cable length and bulb spacing to ensure even coverage and proper installation.
• Weather Resistance: Our IP44 Rated rubber cable is built for the outdoors and will withstand exposure to the elements.
• Power Source: Determine the wattage needed to power the 24v Festoon Cable.

7. Festoon Lighting Installation Tips:

• Plan Your Layout: Determine where you want to hang your festoon lights and measure the area to calculate the required cable length and spacing.
• Secure Mounting Points: Identify suitable mounting points such as trees, poles, fences, or walls to support the weight of the festoon lighting.
• Install Support Structures: Use cable ties, hooks, or clips to secure the cable or wire along the desired route, ensuring it is taut and properly supported.
• Test the Lights: Before permanently installing the lights, test each bulb to ensure they are functioning correctly and replace any faulty bulbs as needed.
• Consider Dimming Options: Explore dimmable festoon lighting options to adjust the brightness and create the perfect ambience for different occasions.

8. Festoon Lighting Creative Ideas:

• Canopy of Lights: Hang festoon lights overhead to create a magical canopy effect for outdoor dining areas, dance floors, or wedding ceremonies.
• Tree Wraps: Wrap festoon lights around tree branches or trunks to highlight the natural beauty of trees and add a whimsical touch to garden landscapes.
• Marquee Backdrop: Use festoon lights as a backdrop for photo booths, stages, or marquees at weddings, parties, and events.
• Pathway Lighting: Line pathways, walkways, or driveways with festoon lights to guide guests and create a welcoming entrance to your home or venue.
• Colourful Displays: Mix and match different bulb colours to create vibrant and eye-catching lighting displays for festive occasions.

9. Maintenance and Safety Tips:

• Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the festoon lights for signs of wear, damage, or loose connections, and replace any faulty bulbs or cables promptly.
• Weather Protection: Protect outdoor festoon lighting from harsh weather conditions by using waterproof cables, covering exposed connections, and securing lights during storms or high winds.
• Safe Installation: Ensure proper installation by following our guidelines, avoiding overloading electrical circuits, and using outdoor-rated extension cords and connectors.
• Timer Controls: Use timer controls or smart lighting systems to automate the operation of festoon lights, conserving energy and ensuring they are only illuminated when needed.

Festoon lighting offers a versatile, stylish, and practical lighting solution for a wide range of indoor and outdoor applications. Whether you're hosting a backyard soirée, planning a wedding reception, or decorating a commercial space, festoon lighting can transform any space into a magical and inviting environment. By considering factors such as bulb style, cable type, installation tips, and creative ideas, you can select the perfect festoon lighting setup to suit your needs and create unforgettable lighting displays that captivate and delight.

Festoon lighting has become increasingly popular for both indoor and outdoor events, adding a touch of ambience and charm to any space. However, choosing the right festoon accessories can be overwhelming with the plethora of options available. In this guide, we'll delve into the various festoon accessories and provide insights to help you make the best choices for your specific needs.

Understanding Festoon Accessories: Festoon accessories encompass a wide range of items that enhance the functionality and aesthetics of festoon lighting setups. From shades and droppers to lanterns of different shapes and sizes, these accessories offer versatility and customisation options to suit any event or space.

1. Shades: Shades are one of the most popular festoon accessories, available in a variety of colours and styles to complement different themes and settings. White shades create a soft, elegant glow, while Firetruck Red adds a vibrant pop of colour, ideal for festive occasions. Black shades offer a sleek and modern look, perfect for contemporary settings. When choosing shades, consider the atmosphere you want to create and select colours that align with your overall design scheme.

2. Droppers: Droppers play a crucial role in suspending festoon lights, providing stability and support. Black and white droppers are commonly used and blend seamlessly with most decor styles. These droppers are available in different lengths (20cm, 40cm, 60cm & 80cm), allowing you to customise the height of your festoon lights to suit the size and layout of your space. When installing festoon lighting, ensure that droppers are securely attached to prevent accidents and ensure safety.

3. Lanterns: Lanterns are a charming addition to festoon lighting setups, offering visual interest and texture. There are various types of lanterns available, including beehive, rectangular, cylindrical, and round lanterns, each with its unique shape and design. Beehive lanterns exude a rustic, whimsical charm, while rectangular lanterns offer a contemporary edge. Cylinder and round lanterns provide a classic and timeless look, suitable for a wide range of events and occasions. Consider mixing and matching different lantern styles to create visual contrast and dimension in your lighting design.

Tips for Choosing Festoon Accessories:

• Consider the theme and ambiance of your event or space.
• Select accessories that complement your existing decor and colour scheme.
• Opt for high-quality materials that are durable and weather-resistant, especially for outdoor use.
• Experiment with different combinations of shades, droppers, and lanterns to create a unique and personalized lighting display.
• Prioritize safety by ensuring proper installation and maintenance of festoon accessories.

Choosing the right festoon accessories is essential for creating an inviting and captivating atmosphere for your event or space. Whether you prefer classic lanterns or modern shades, there are plenty of options available to suit your style and preferences. By carefully considering your design goals and selecting accessories that enhance your lighting setup, you can create a stunning and memorable ambience that will impress your guests and elevate your decor.

Connecting low voltage wires together is a common task when working with lighting systems like festoon cables, LED drivers, dotless strips, modules, flexible neon, and more. Follow this detailed guide to ensure safe and reliable connections for your low voltage lighting projects.

Materials You Will Need:

• Low voltage wires (such as festoon cable, dotless strip wires, module wires, or flexible neon wires).
• Wire cutters/strippers.
• Soldering iron and solder (for permanent connections, if needed).
• Heat shrink tubing (for added insulation and protection).
• Wire connectors (such as wire nuts, butt connectors, or crimp connectors).
• Electrical tape (as an alternative to heat shrink tubing).
• Cable ties (for cable management).
• Heat gun or lighter (if using heat shrink tubing).
• Safety gear: Safety goggles and heat-resistant gloves.

Procedure:

1. Safety First:

• Always work in a well-ventilated area.
• Wear safety goggles and heat-resistant gloves to protect your eyes and hands.

2. Prepare the Wires:

• Ensure that the low voltage wires you plan to connect are clean, undamaged, and stripped of any damaged insulation.
• Strip the ends of the wires to expose approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch (6-12 mm) of bare wire. Use wire strippers to do this.

3. Choose the Connection Method:

Wire Connectors (WAGO):

• Wire connectors are a quick and reliable way to connect low voltage wires together. They come in various sizes to accommodate different wire gauges.
• To use wire connectors:
  • Insert the prepared wires into the open slots of the WAGO connector. Make sure that each wire goes into its designated slot based on size and polarity.
  • Once the wires are inserted correctly, close the clamping unit securely. This action will grip the wires tightly, establishing a secure connection.
  • Ensure that the wires are held firmly in place by gently tugging on them.

Soldering (for Permanent Connections):

• Soldering provides a strong and secure connection. This method is ideal for applications where you don't want any chance of wires coming loose.
• To solder wires together:
  • Twist the exposed ends of the wires together.
  • Heat your soldering iron to the appropriate temperature for your solder.
  • Apply the soldering iron to the twisted wires to heat them.
  • Apply solder to the heated wires, allowing it to flow evenly over the twisted area.
  • Remove the soldering iron and let the solder cool and solidify. Ensure the wires are held in place until the solder hardens.
  • Optionally, slide heat shrink tubing over the soldered area and use a heat gun or lighter to shrink it for added protection.

4. Insulate the Connection:

• If using wire connectors, they provide built-in insulation.
• If soldering, slide heat shrink tubing over the soldered area or use electrical tape to insulate the connection.
• If using heat shrink tubing, apply heat evenly using a heat gun or lighter until the tubing shrinks and seals the connection tightly. Ensure there are no gaps in the tubing.

5. Secure and Organise the Wires:

• Use cable ties or clips to secure and organise the connected wires, keeping them neat and tidy.

6. Test the Connection:

• Before energising your lighting system, test the connection to ensure it's secure and functioning correctly.

7. Repeat as Needed:

• Repeat the above steps for all the low voltage wire connections in your project.

By following these steps, you can safely and effectively connect low voltage wires for your festoon cables, dotless strips, modules, flexible neon, and other low voltage lighting applications. Always adhere to safety guidelines and manufacturer recommendations for your specific lighting products.

Choosing the correct wire gauge for flexible neon lighting is essential for safety and efficiency. It is important to consider the current load and voltage drop to achieve optimal performance. Various American Wire Gauge (AWG) options are available to meet the specific needs of different lighting applications.

LED strip lights, like those offered by Flexible Neon, are renowned for their longevity and versatility. To understand how long these LED strip lights can last, it's essential to examine their structure and the factors that influence their lifespan.

The Structure of LED Strip Lights:

The main components of LED strips include LED's (Light Emitting Diodes), FPCB (Flexible Printed Circuit Boards), resistors, and other essential elements. These components are assembled using Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Assembly Process, which mounts LED's, resistors, and other components onto the FPCB.

Some outdoor or underwater LED strips may also have a protective silicone or PU glue coating. However, it's crucial to note that LED strips with higher IP ratings, designed for enhanced protection against dust and water, may have a somewhat shorter lifespan compared to IP20-rated LED strips. This is primarily because LED strips with higher IP ratings struggle to dissipate heat as efficiently. Generally, cooler environments support a longer LED lifespan, as higher temperatures tend to reduce light output. (For more details on how heat affects LED's, see "How are LED's affected by heat?")

Understanding LED Lifetime and the "L70" Rule:

Unlike traditional incandescent or fluorescent bulbs that fail abruptly, LED's gradually lose their light output over time. They continue working until they become too dim to be practical. The industry has established a standard for this gradual decrease in light output, known as the "L70" metric. It signifies the point at which an LED has dimmed to 70% of its original brightness.

In some instances, you may come across symbols like "LxByCz(h)" to describe the lifetime of LED luminaires. Here's what it means:

• "Lx" denotes the number of hours after which the luminous flux has dropped to x percent.
• "By" signifies the percentage of luminaires in the same group that have fallen below the specified luminous flux.
• "Cz" indicates the percentage of luminaires in the group that have experienced total LED failure.

For example, "L70B10C0.1 (50,000 h)" means that after 50,000 hours:

• The LED luminaires must still provide at least 70% of their initial luminous flux.
• Up to 10% of the luminaires can provide less than 70% of the initial luminous flux.
• In just 0.1% of the luminaires, all LED's may have failed.

How Is "L70" Calculated?

To calculate LED lifetime, a testing method called LM-80 is often employed. This method specifies a predetermined temperature and driving current for testing LED samples. The light output change is measured at intervals of 1000 hours, up to a maximum of 10,000 hours. Reputable manufacturers conduct LM-80 testing at third-party laboratories to ensure impartial results. They then publish these results in report format. It's important to note that reliable LED strip suppliers should be able to provide LM80 test reports, especially when purchasing large quantities.

However, LED life testing can be time-consuming. For instance, even with LED's operating 24/7, a 10,000-hour test takes around 14 months. This timeframe is impractical for fast-moving industries like LED lighting. To address this issue, the TM-21 extrapolation algorithm is employed. It considers the performance of LM-80-tested samples during the first few thousand hours and provides an estimated lifetime.

Factors Affecting LED Strip Light Lifespan:

Several factors can affect the lifespan of LED strip lights:

1. FPCB (Flexible Printed Circuit Board): High-quality, double-layer pure copper flexible PCBs facilitate the smooth passage of significant current, reduce heat generation, and promote efficient heat dissipation. By attaching the LED strip to an aluminium profile, you can dissipate heat effectively and lower the operating temperature, thus extending LED life.

2. Double-Sided Tape: Quality matters when it comes to adhesive tape. LED strip lights from reputable suppliers often use high-quality tapes, like the 3M brand VHB tape. Proper tape quality ensures long-lasting installations and good thermal conductivity.

3. Resistors: Resistors regulate the forward current through LED's to maintain their designed brightness. It's crucial to use high-quality resistors from reputable manufacturers to avoid shortening the LED strip's life or causing damage.

4. Power Supply: The power supply is a critical component. Always use a reliable, brand-name power supply to ensure stable voltage output. Low-quality power supplies can deliver unstable voltages that might exceed the LED strip's working voltage, potentially damaging it.

5. Heat Dissipation: Heat can significantly reduce LED lifespan. To manage heat effectively, install LED strips in well-ventilated areas. If feasible, attach the LED strip to an aluminium profile to aid in heat dissipation, as aluminium is an excellent conductor of heat.

By considering these factors and following best practices for installation and maintenance, you can maximise the lifespan of your Flexible Neon LED strip lights, ensuring they provide brilliant and reliable illumination for years to come.

Whether you're working on electrical projects or crafting intricate setups, knowing how to properly connect wires is essential for safety and efficiency. In this detailed guide, we'll walk you through two common methods: soldering and using Wago connectors. We'll also emphasise the importance of maintaining consistent wire polarity to ensure your connections work seamlessly.

Materials You'll Need:

• Wires to be connected
• Soldering iron and solder (if soldering)
• Wago connectors (if using)
• Wire stripper or cutter
• Dual Adhesive Heat shrink tubing (if soldering)
• Electrical tape (if using)
• Multimeter (for polarity verification)

Method 1: Soldering Wires

Step 1: Prepare the Wires

1. Strip about 1 cm of insulation from each wire using a wire stripper.
2. Twist the exposed wire strands to prevent fraying.
3. For safety, we recommend the wires are feathered to ensure the opposing wires do not touch.

Step 2: Solder the Wires

1. Heat your soldering iron and apply a small amount of solder to the tip.
2. Hold the wires together with their stripped ends aligned.
3. Touch the soldering iron's tip to the wires, allowing the heat to melt the solder and create a strong bond between the wires.

Step 3: Insulate with Heat Shrink Tubing (This step can be done before step 2 to make a more streamlined connection)

1. Slide a piece of heat shrink tubing over the soldered area.
2. Use a heat gun to shrink the tubing, providing insulation and protection to the solder joint.

Method 2: Using Wago Connectors

Step 1: Prepare the Wires

1. Strip about 1 cm of insulation from each wire.
2. Insert the stripped wires into the appropriate Wago connector slots (same polarities). Ensure each wire is securely inserted.

Step 2: Secure the Wires

1. Press down on the orange lever of the Wago connector. This will securely clamp the wires in place.

Step 3: Verify Polarity

1. Use a multimeter to verify that the wire polarity is consistent between the connections.
2. Connect the multimeter probes to the corresponding wires to ensure positive (+) and negative (-) match.

General Tips:

• Weatherproofing: Employing electrical tape is an effective method for swiftly safeguarding your connection against environmental factors. Exercise caution, as any openings can pose potential hazards.

• Maintain Consistent Polarity: To prevent electrical issues, ensure that the wires' polarity (positive and negative) matches correctly when connecting them. A reversed polarity can lead to equipment damage or malfunction.

• Safety First: Always work in a well-ventilated area, and take necessary precautions to avoid burns when soldering. If using Wago connectors, handle them carefully to prevent any accidental damage.

• Practice Good Wire Management: Keep the wire connections tidy by using cable ties, conduit, or other wire management solutions.

• Test Your Connections: Before finalising your project, test the connected wires using appropriate electrical equipment to verify that the connections are functioning as intended.

• Wear Safety Gear: When soldering, protect your hands with gloves and your eyes with safety goggles to prevent accidental burns or splashes.

By following this guide, you'll be able to confidently and safely connect wires using both soldering and Wago connectors while maintaining proper polarity. This skill will prove invaluable for a wide range of electrical and DIY projects. 

Welcome to Flexible Neon - Australian design, led by Mitch Harrison. Our festoon lights are thoughtfully crafted to combine aesthetics with safety and efficiency. Unlike traditional bulbs, there's no risk of broken glass and high voltage, ensuring peace of mind for all. Built with commercial-grade materials, our festoon lights boast the biggest range of bulbs to suit any ambience. Inexpensive to run and maintenance-free, they're an ideal solution for any occasion. Operating on 24V DC (AC/DC bulbs), our festoon light system is not just decorative, but also provides substantial illumination. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use, our IP-rated festoon lights promise durability and reliability.

Cable: Our festoon light cable comes with various socket spacing - 0.25m, 0.5m, and 0.9m - available in black or 0.5m in white. With the option of round or flat cables, you can choose the design that suits your needs best. For added versatility, we also offer 0.5m and 0.9m spacing with 0.4m droppers. Crafted from high-grade wire, our cables can accommodate long runs of up to 100m (depending on the bulb), ensuring flexibility in your lighting setup. The cable's simple yet intelligent design includes no separate flange, eliminating the risk of lost parts. For longer cable runs exceeding 7m, a support cable is recommended. Additionally, to prevent voltage drop, it's advisable to run a maximum of 10m from the LED Driver to the festoon cable for feeder cables.

Bulb: At Flexible Neon, we offer a wide selection of bulbs in various sizes for E27 fittings. Choose from a range of sizes, including G45, G60, G80, G95, G125, C35, Strobe and Cabochon, to perfectly suit your lighting needs. Within these sizes, we offer a diverse range of LED types/animations, filament colours, filament amounts, filament sizes, cap colours, and options for milky or clear caps. For added convenience, our bulbs are available in different wattage to match your desired brightness level.

In our vibrant colour range, you'll find over 7 different captivating colours to add an enchanting touch to any setting. Our bulbs operate on both AC and DC, ensuring compatibility with a variety of setups and making them highly versatile.

Rest assured that our bulbs are built to last, with a lifespan rated to over 10,000 hours, ensuring long-lasting illumination for your space. To ensure safety during use, our bulbs come equipped with a plastic cap, providing an extra layer of protection. With our extensive bulb collection, you'll find the perfect lighting solution for any event or space.

LED Drivers: Our commitment to quality extends to our LED drivers, where we exclusively use Meanwell LED Drivers. These drivers, available in various wattage, ensure stable and reliable 24V DC power for your festoon lights. Rated for outdoor use, our LED drivers are designed to withstand challenging environmental conditions.

Accessories: Enhance your festoon light setup with our range of accessories. We offer black and white droppers in 0.2m, 0.4m, 0.6m, and 0.8m lengths, providing flexibility in your light installation. Add a touch of style with our shades available in black, white, or firetruck red, and choose from a variety of shapes - beehive, cylinder, rectangle, or round lantern - to customise your lighting design.

At Flexible Neon, we prefer warm white lighting for several compelling reasons. Warm white light offers a softer, more natural glow that closely resembles traditional incandescent lighting, creating a welcoming and cosy ambience in any space. Here are some key reasons why warm white is our top choice:

1. Comfort and Relaxation: Warm white light has a colour temperature typically ranging from 2700K to 3500K, which emits a gentle, calming glow that promotes relaxation. It's ideal for areas where people gather, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and dining spaces.

2. Enhancing Decor: Warm white light complements various interior designs and colour schemes, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your space. It creates a harmonious atmosphere that suits both modern and classic settings.

3. Aesthetic Appeal: Warm white light is often preferred for its flattering effect on skin tones, making it an excellent choice for retail and hospitality spaces, as well as photography studios.

4. Cosy Ambience: Whether it's in a restaurant, café, or residential setting, warm white lighting helps to create a cosy and inviting environment that encourages social interaction and relaxation.

5. Versatility: Warm white lighting is incredibly versatile and can be used in various applications, such as accent lighting, cove lighting, or general room illumination.

6. Well-Being: Warm white light has been associated with improved mood and overall well-being. It is considered more soothing and less disruptive to circadian rhythms than cool white or daylight lighting.

7. Subtle and Stylish: Warm white light adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any space, making it an excellent choice for creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

At Flexible Neon, we prioritise the well-being and satisfaction of our customers. We believe that warm white lighting enhances the overall experience and comfort in any environment, making it a preferred option for a wide range of lighting projects. With our extensive collection of warm white LED products, we are committed to helping you achieve the perfect lighting solution that meets your specific needs and preferences.

Step 1: Choose the Location and Plan the Layout

The first step in hanging commercial festoon cable is to determine the location and plan the layout. Start by deciding where you want to hang the cable and how many lights you need. Then, measure the distance between the anchor points and calculate the length of cable required.

Step 2: Gather Materials and Tools

Before you start, gather all the necessary materials and tools. You will need the following:

Festoon cable

Light bulbs

Cable ties or clips

Screw hooks or eye bolts

Pliers or wire cutters

Ladder or scaffolding (depending on the height of the installation)

2 Core Lead Wire

Cable connectors (depending on the type of cable you are using)

Step 3: Attach the Screw Hooks or Eye Bolts

Using a ladder or scaffolding, attach the screw hooks or eye bolts to the anchor points. Make sure they are securely fastened and can support the weight of the cable and lights.

Step 4: Install the Festoon Cable

Once the screw hooks or eye bolts are in place, it's time to install the festoon cable. Start at one end and work your way to the other, securing the cable to each anchor point with cable ties or clips. Make sure the cable is taut and doesn't sag in the middle.

Step 5: Attach the Light Bulbs

Now that the cable is in place, it's time to attach the light bulbs. Screw each bulb into the socket and make sure it's secure.

Step 6: Connect the Cable to Power via 24V Transformer.

Once all the light bulbs are in place, it's time to connect the cable to power via a 24V transformer. Before connecting the cable, make sure the transformer is rated for the wattage of the festoon lights you're using (See the relevant guide).

To connect the cable to the transformer, you may need to use WAGO’s or ask us to put an easy plug system to join the cable to the transformer. Make sure the connection is secure and safe, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for the transformer.

Note that it's important to use a transformer when connecting festoon lights to power, as the lights are typically designed to run on low voltage (24V) for safety reasons. Without a transformer, you risk electrical shock or damage to the lights.

Step 7: Test the Lights

Before you finish, test the lights to make sure they are working properly. Turn on the power and check each light bulb to make sure it's working.

Step 8: Secure the Cable and Clean Up

Finally, secure the cable and clean up any mess you made during the installation. Use cable ties or clips to make sure the cable is secure and won't come loose over time. Dispose of any packaging or debris and enjoy your new festoon lights!

Overall, hanging commercial festoon cable can be a great way to add ambience and lighting to any outdoor or indoor space. With the right tools and a little planning, it's a straightforward process that can be completed by anyone.