Collection: Outdoor Garden Lights - LED Strip & Neon Flex by Atom LED

Make your garden easier to use after dark. Choose outdoor garden lights that are safe, low on power use, and built for UK weather. This page helps you pick the right LED strip and neon flex lights. It also explains how to install them and how to keep them working year after year.

You get clear product choices. You get the straight installation steps. You get simple maintenance tips. Atom LED supplies outdoor LED garden lights and neon flex kits that suit patios, paths, walls, and planters. You will find plug-in low-voltage kits and mains-ready options. Each product shows its voltage and IP rating.

Why choose LED strip lights and neon flex for your garden?

LED strip lights and neon flex use less power than older lamp types. They stay cool. They last for thousands of hours. That lowers your running cost. They give steady, even light. You can hide strips under railings or along steps. You can shape neon flex around planter edges or onto a fence for a clean line of light. For a small cost, you get clear safety and long life.

Energy and life span

Quality LED strips draw around 4 to 14 watts per metre, depending on density and colour. A typical warm white strip that draws 7 watts per metre will run for years with normal use. LED strips last tens of thousands of hours. That cuts the need to replace bulbs often.

Safety

Low-voltage systems, usually 12 V or 24 V, reduce shock risk in wet gardens. LED strips run cool. Low heat reduces the risk to plants and to people. For mains-powered fittings, use RCD-protected circuits and certified outdoor fixtures.

Weather resistance

Look for IP65 or higher for most exposed applications. IP65 handles heavy rain. If a light sits near a pond, choose IP67 or IP68. After cutting a strip, seal the end with an end cap and silicone to keep moisture out.

What does Atom LED offer?

Atom LED lists LED strip kits and neon flex ranges designed for outdoor use. Each product page shows:

• Voltage, for example, 12 V DC or 24 V DC.
• Power rating in watts per metre.
• IP rating and notes on where to use it.
• Cable options and compatible connectors.
• Recommended driver wattage.

We supply clear instructions for common installs. We also offer waterproof connector kits that save time compared with soldering in the garden.

Services overview

You can buy ready-to-fit kits. You can buy components to build a bespoke run. For larger jobs, we advise on driver sizing and cable gauge.

Typical services and offerings

• Plug-in low-voltage LED strip kits for patios and handrails.
• Neon flex runs for fences, signs, and planters.
• Weatherproof connector kits and junction boxes.
• Guides for driver sizing and cable runs.
• Advice for keeping fixtures off the ground and sealing cut ends.

Local references and trust builders

Atom LED ships across the United Kingdom. We test gear in UK weather. Each kit shows installation tips for rain and cold. Our guidance follows UK safety practice. For the main work, we recommend you use a registered electrician. If your project needs mains wiring, an electrician will fit an RCD-protected circuit and certify the work.

We include troubleshooting tips that local installers use. For example:

• Keep the transformer off the ground and in a vertical position to reduce water ingress.
• Make a drip loop at cable entry points.
• Use UV-resistant clips in exposed southern and western walls.

Design ideas you can use

These ideas work with LED strip lights and neon flex. Each idea lists practical steps and product pointers.

Paths and borders

Run a warm white strip along the path edge. Use a 7 W per metre strip. Mount it low and hide the strip beneath the lip of paving. Use a 12 V driver sized at least 20 percent above the total load.

Steps and risers

Mount a strip under each tread nose. Choose a strip that gives 100 to 200 lumens per metre for safe foot traffic. Fit inside an aluminium profile for protection. Use IP65 or higher.

Plant and feature washes

Place a cool white strip behind shrubs to create an even backlight. Keep the strip 0.5 to 1 metre from foliage. Use RGBW if you want seasonal colour.

Fence lines and panels

Bend neon flex along the top rail of a fence. Choose a neon flex rated for outdoor use and for the radius you need. Use mounting clips rated for outdoor exposure.

Seating zones and pergolas

Hide strips under bench seats or under deck boards. Use warm white at about 2700 K for a cosy feel. Add a dimmer for light level control.

Choosing the right kit

Match voltage, driver capacity, IP rating and cable gauge to your site. Follow these steps.

1. Measure total strip length in metres.
2. Multiply length by strip wattage.
3. Add 20 to 30 percent headroom for the driver.
4. Choose an outdoor-rated driver with that wattage.
5. For runs over 10 metres, choose a thicker cable to reduce voltage drop.
6. Use an IP65-rated strip for most installations that face rain.
7. For near water use IP67 or IP68.

Example: You have 12 metres of a 7 W per metre strip. Total wattage equals 84 W. Choose a 100 W driver or higher.

Transformer and cable guidance

Buy a driver that is made for LED strips. The driver should list a DC voltage output and a wattage rating. Do not use a standard mains transformer that is not designed for LEDs.

For cable:

• Up to 10 metres combined run, 2×1.0 mm² can work for small loads.
• For longer runs or higher loads, use 2×1.5 mm² or 2×2.5 mm².
• Aim to keep the voltage drop below 3 percent for the best brightness.

If you are unsure, send the layout and total length to Atom LED, and we will advise on cable gauge and driver size.

Weatherproofing and mounting

After you cut a strip, always seal the end with an end cap and silicone. Use waterproof connectors designed for the strip type. Mount strips inside aluminium tracks on rough surfaces. That prevents pull and keeps strips flat.

Use UV-resistant adhesive clips. Avoid cheap plastic clips that become brittle.

Keep all plug and driver connections raised from soil. That reduces flood risk. Create a drip loop to stop water from running into the connector.

Installation safety points

• For mains-powered runs, use a registered electrician.
• Fit an RCD for all outdoor fixed mains circuits.
• For low-voltage plug-in kits, use outdoor-rated drivers.
• Never leave exposed copper conductors in a connector.
• Test each section before final sealing.

Maintenance and care

• Wipe strips and channels with a damp cloth once or twice a year.
• Inspect connectors and seals before winter.
• Replace failed sections by cutting at the marked cut lines.
• Keep spare end caps and silicone on hand.

Pricing and value

LED strip kits range in density and features. Basic warm white outdoor strips cost less than RGBW options. Neon flex costs more than a plain strip but gives a continuous line and better bending. Consider the total cost of the wire, driver, and connectors when you plan your budget.

Common project checklists

Small path run

• 5 metres warm white strip
• 12 V driver rated 60 W
• Waterproof connectors
• UV clips or aluminium channel
• Outdoor cable 2×1.0 mm²

Patio seating underglow

• 10 metres warm white strip
• 12 V driver rated 100 W
• Dimmer controller
• Weatherproof mounting channels
• Waterproof connector kit

Fence neon sign

• Neon flex to fit panel
• 24 V driver that matches neon flex spec
• Outdoor mount clips
• IP65-rated end caps

FAQ's

Best IP rating for year-round UK garden lighting

For general outdoor use, IP65 is suitable, while areas exposed to heavy rain or ground contact should use IP67. IP68 is recommended only for permanent submersion such as ponds or water features.

How to calculate power for 24V neon flex runs up to 30m

Multiply the wattage per metre by the total length, then add 20–30% headroom to size the power supply safely.

Recommended waterproof controllers for COB outdoor strips

Use IP65 or higher rated dimmers or smart controllers designed for outdoor low-voltage lighting, installed in weatherproof enclosures.

How to prevent voltage drop on long neon flex runs

Use 24V or 48V systems, thicker cables, and power injection at multiple points along the run to maintain consistent brightness.

Cutting, joining and sealing outdoor neon flex safely

Cut only at marked points, use waterproof connectors or soldered joints, and seal all ends with silicone or heat-shrink end caps to retain the IP rating.

Flat outdoor LED strip vs side-bend neon flex for borders and decks

Side-bend neon flex provides a continuous visible glow along edges, making it better for borders and decking, while flat strips are easier to conceal but less visible from the side.

Best colour temperatures for paths, seating areas, and planting

2700K creates a warm, relaxing feel for seating and paths, while 4000K works better for highlighting plants and architectural details.

24V vs 48V neon flex for long garden perimeter runs

48V systems allow longer continuous runs with less voltage drop, while 24V systems are simpler but may need more power feed points.

When to choose IP67 vs IP68 strips and neon flex

Choose IP67 for rain, splashes, and ground contact, and IP68 only where the lighting will be continuously underwater.

How UV-resistant silicone extends neon flex lifespan

UV-resistant silicone prevents cracking and yellowing from sunlight, helping neon flex remain flexible and bright over many years.

Recommended cables and junction boxes for wet UK conditions

Use outdoor-rated low-voltage cable with thick insulation and IP65–IP67 waterproof junction boxes with proper cable glands.

Where to locate power supplies and controllers

Install them indoors or in sheltered, ventilated IP-rated enclosures so they stay dry but remain accessible for maintenance.

Best smart controllers for scenes and schedules

Wi-Fi, RF, or Zigbee smart controllers compatible with 12V or 24V lighting allow scheduling, dimming, and scene control through apps.

Best mounting options for neat neon flex installs

Aluminium profiles, stainless clips, and sealed end caps provide the cleanest finish on fences, steps, and retaining walls.

Are these lights safe near ponds?

Yes, when low-voltage lighting with IP67 or IP68 ratings is used and all electrical connections remain dry and protected.

Can I cut the LED strip to length?

Yes, LED strips can be cut at marked cut points, but the cut ends must be sealed to keep them waterproof.

How do I avoid voltage drop?

Use higher voltage systems, thicker cables, shorter runs, and multiple power feed points along the strip.

What IP rating do I need?

IP65 is suitable for most gardens, IP67 for wet or ground-level areas, and IP68 for submerged installations.

Can these lights work with smart controllers?

Yes, most outdoor LED strips and neon flex can work with smart controllers if voltage and strip type are matched correctly.

Best waterproof power supplies for garden LED strips

Choose IP67 or IP68 LED drivers with 20–30% extra capacity above your total load for reliability.

How to install neon flex on brick or concrete walls

Fix mounting clips or channels using wall plugs and screws, then snap or press the neon flex securely into place.

How to seal cut ends of outdoor LED strips

Seal with silicone adhesive or waterproof end caps and allow the sealant to fully cure before use.

Can outdoor LED strips be used near pools or ponds?

Yes, when using low-voltage systems with IP67 or IP68 ratings and proper RCD protection.

Common mounting methods for LED neon flex outdoors

Clips, aluminium channels, and outdoor-grade adhesive or silicone are the most common methods.

How to calculate wattage and run length for neon flex

Multiply watts per metre by total length and confirm the maximum run length allowed before adding power injection.

Best connectors and joiners for weatherproof neon flex

Use IP68-rated silicone or heat-shrink connectors designed specifically for outdoor neon flex.

How to match colour temperature between strip and neon flex

Select both products with the same Kelvin rating and test samples when mixing manufacturers.

Cost per metre: neon flex vs LED strip

Neon flex typically costs more due to its sealed silicone housing, while outdoor LED strips are generally more affordable.

Key differences between LED strips and neon flex

Neon flex offers uniform light and better weather resistance, while LED strips are thinner, cheaper, and easier to hide.

Best option for decking edges in rainy UK weather

Neon flex is usually better due to its fully sealed design and even light output along edges.

Installing IP67 neon flex along paths or fences

Secure with clips or channels, connect sections using waterproof connectors, and seal the ends after testing.

Best voltage to prevent drop on long runs

24V performs better than 12V for long runs, while 48V is best for very long perimeter installations.

Best dimmable RGB neon flex for smart gardens

Choose IP67 or IP68 RGB or RGBW neon flex compatible with Wi-Fi, RF, or DMX smart controllers.

Maintaining outdoor LED lighting through UK winters

Inspect seals regularly, keep power supplies dry, clear debris, and reseal any exposed joints before winter.