RV models get more efficient, more comfortable as years go by. The RVs now come equipped with many things, but there is always more you can do to make your RV more environmentally and family-friendly. LED lights for RV owners accomplish these things because it is more energy-efficient and helps protect the environment. Switching to LED lights is excellent because it is more energy-efficient and brighter than other light bulbs.
It is better to switch to LED lights for your RV because it is less hot and has a longer life, so you would not need to change bulbs often. Though you will use RV LED lights, you still need to be careful and safe when handling the installation of such. Remember, it is connected to electricity or your car’s battery. Therefore, it would help if you treated these lights like you are in your house.
Here are some safety reminders when using RV LED Lights:
Safety Reminders when using RV Led Lights
1. LED Lighting safely
You should always be aware and use precaution when changing bulbs or installing a new one. First, make sure that the switches are off or the electric connection is disconnected. Then use safety gloves before touching the existing bulb because it might be hot or broken.
It is always better to wear rubber shoes or boots when working with electrical fixtures because if you accidentally get grounded or touch a live wire, it helps prevent electric shock. Of course, complete gear is unnecessary when you are just doing minor repairs, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Electricity can cause massive trauma or even death.
2. Check the Product
First, check to make sure the new bulb or light strings have no sign of damage. Look for cracks, exposed wiring, and broken diodes. Abnormalities like these might cause electrocution or fire. Any of these issues can also make your new bulb not work correctly.
You won’t want a light string section that does not faint or that bulb that blows when you switch it on. Looking for these issues in the hardware or store will help you save money and time. Always buy quality brands that pass quality control or has a government approval stamp.
3. Installing led lights
Before installing any lights, be prepared. Make sure that you have the correct sizes and wattage or the right length. You should check if the lights you have are for RVs and will fit the hole or space that has the wirings. Before installation, make sure that the switch is off. It is never wrong to double-check.
Connect the wirings of the LED lights to your light lines. Be sure to connect the right colors of the wires. Cap the exposed wires or wrap them with electrical tape, then turn on the switch to check if you have connected it properly. Make sure that there is no exposed live wire that can cause a shortage or fire.
4. Pick a location
Pick the right location where you’re going to place the bulb or string lights. When you choose to place your lights indoors, make sure the children or pets will not be able to reach them. Make sure there are some spaces between the lamps and furniture. Do not put materials near it that might catch the lights if the RV flicks or the bulb breaks. LEDs are made of plastic and less likely to get hot, but these safety precautions will give you peace of mind.
If you’re placing LED strips on your RV exterior, make sure the lights are not in a place that could cause damage to it if ever it shorted out. Also, make sure that the area is clean before installation.
5. Remove the old bulb
If you’re replacing existing bulbs or lights, make sure to remove the old bulb first, AFTER you have turned off the electrical current. It is not safe to unscrew a bulb when the light switch is still on because it receives an electrical current. Use rubber hand gloves to protect your hand from burns or accidental breaks while removing the old bulbs. Have someone hold a flashlight for you if you can’t see well.
The same goes for any light strings that need a bulb replaced. Make sure to unplug all of them first and follow the directions in the replacement bulb package. Make sure that the switch is off before replacing the new one.
6. Plan the placement
When installing new RV LED lights, it is important to plan where to place them. Lights should be placed in strategic places for them to be cost-efficient. It is also essential to install not so close to each other because it will mean more lights. More lights mean more frequent maintenance or replacement jobs. We would not want to expose you unnecessarily to more electrical works.
This safety tip will save you money and keep you from hanging on a ladder any longer than you need to. It is also bad for your bones when cramping your neck in looking up whenever you replace these lights. Ensure that all replacement or improvement LED lights, tools, and materials are of high quality to be safe and prevent immediate damage or fire. Do not leave your bulbs and equipment lying around to prevent an accident.
Ensure that the cords are well-protected from outdoor elements and outlets/plugs are away from water for light strings. Cover it to prevent getting wet when it rains. Doing so will prevent the blowing of fuses or fire.
7. Always be conscious
Living in a small space like an RV can sometimes cause some minor problems. It is better to be safe and conscious of your surroundings. Check and double-check everything before going to sleep. Turn off unnecessary lights always. Unplug unused appliances or chargers.
Overloading your battery or your power supply can cause some serious damage to your electrical system and power supply like the generator or the RV battery. Therefore, you should be cautious in everything related to electricity, especially the RV LED lights.
8. First Aid Kit
Always have materials in your RV that can help stop fires or provide first aid to injured people. The aforementioned includes fire extinguishers and fully-stocked first aid kits. If ever you experienced an electrical emergency like injuries or even fire, cut the power immediately. Turn down the electrical box and remove your connection to the battery, generator, or power supply.
9. Call 911
Every person living in your RV should know how to call help if ever there is an emergency. If you or someone with you is hurt, or your lights burnt and caught fire, contact 911 immediately. Get out of it and move to a secure location. Make sure the children are at a safe distance from your RV.
Ask a professional
If there are any electrical issues inside the RV that you are concerned about, call a licensed electrician and have those things looked at. If you need help, look for assistance. It is never wrong to ask for help.
These are some of the Safety Reminders for people living in an RV and wanting to enjoy their life without the hassle of busted lights and grounded lights and plugs. Always remember that there are things that you have to get used to and prevent accidents and disasters. LED lights are the best lighting option and said to be the safest, but still, caution is always better than being careless.