this post was submitted on 22 May 2024
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Interior Decorating
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I don't see numbers on efficiency, but LED strips need AC to DC power supplies to operate. New ones are pretty efficient, but I don't know how you'd ensure that you're buying an efficient one.
For efficiency, buying the LED bulbs that fit standard sockets is probably the best way to go. Maybe you could get a really efficient power supply to maximize efficiency with some strips, but I doubt you'll do much better than getting regular bulbs. You're better off investing time and money into other things. Insulation is usually lacking. It sounds like you're renting so that's possibly not an option.
Don't LED bulbs have transformers built in? As far as I know, all LEDs run off DC power
LEDs are diodes; so, yes they need DC power. They don't necessarily need a transformer. Modern bulbs use an integrated circuit with some discrete components that handle the conversion. Some cheaper bulbs use a capacitive dropper circuit with a bridge rectifier; they're not as efficient. The really cheap ones omit the capacitor in the rectifier; they flicker.
Ah I assumed "transformer" meant anything that converted AC to DC
When I took electronics, transformer meant a pair of coils of wire wrapped around some magnetic material. Their purpose is to step the voltage up or down. You still need components to convert from AC to DC. The easy way to do that is a rectifier with a capacitor that holds the charge.
Makes sense, I never looked up the definition and my only experience with them is with power bricks so I had the wrong idea