12V lighting, explained for real installations
How to choose 12V LED lighting, power supplies and controls
12V lighting is useful in kitchens, display cabinets, vehicles, signage and compact accent installations, but the right result depends on matching the light, power supply and control method. This guide answers the common AC/DC, wattage and dimming questions before you buy.
Start with the part of the system you are choosing
A 12V setup is easier to plan when you separate the light source from the equipment that feeds and controls it. Choose the route that matches your project, then check the voltage, wattage, connector format and installation environment on the product listing.
Bulbs for compact fittings
G4 and G6.35 lamps suit small under-cabinet fittings, display cases, caravans and other spaces where the lamp holder already exists. Confirm whether the fitting accepts AC, DC or both before replacing the lamp.
Browse LED bulbs
Strip lighting for continuous runs
Striplight is the flexible choice for shelves, cupboards, counters, coves and display work. The strip's watts per metre determines the power supply size, while the IP rating limits where it should be installed.
See striplight kits
Power and control for the system
Most household mains installations need a suitable 12V output supply. A compatible dimmer can then adjust brightness, but the dimmer's voltage and current limits must suit the strip or lamps connected to it.
Browse LED dimmers
Three practical 12V starting points
These are live products from the Future Light catalogue. They are not interchangeable: each one solves a different part of a low-voltage lighting system.

60W 12V power supply
This indoor, surge-protected supply delivers 12Vdc at 60W and is 202 x 35 x 25mm. It suits a smaller striplight or under-cabinet installation where the supply needs to stay out of sight.
See the 60W power supply

12V 5050 striplight
This 5m strip runs at 14.4W per metre, uses 12V, and has an IP54 rating. The daylight 6000K output is suited to installations where a cooler, clearer striplight effect is wanted.
View the 12V striplight

12V/24V rotary dimmer
This indoor rotary dimmer is rated for 12–24Vdc and 8A. It is a straightforward choice when brightness should be adjusted at the fitting rather than from a remote.
See the rotary dimmer
Match the power supply before you calculate the run
Start with the strip or lamps, then add the connected load. For striplight, multiply the product's watts per metre by the installed length. The supply must provide 12V and enough wattage for that load. Keep the strip format, width and connector family consistent when you add joins or accessories.
Installation checkpoint: IP20 products are for dry indoor use. An IP54 or IP-rated outdoor product still needs an installation location and connection method that suit the whole system. If the voltage, dimmer rating or environment is unclear, pause and ask an electrician or contact Future Light before ordering.
| Check |
Why it matters |
Where to confirm it |
| Voltage |
The light, supply and dimmer must use compatible voltage ranges. |
Product specifications and power-supply output |
| Total wattage |
The supply needs enough capacity for the complete connected run. |
Watts per metre, lamp wattage and installed length |
| Environment |
IP rating and enclosure choice affect whether the product suits the location. |
Product IP rating and installation conditions |
| Control |
A dimmer must support the system voltage and current. |
Dimmer specification and strip/lamp format |
For compatible connection parts, use the striplight connectors and cabling collection. Do not assume that two products connect simply because both are labelled 12V.
12V LED lighting questions
Are 12V LED lights AC or DC?
It depends on the product. Some small 12V lamps accept AC or DC, while many strip systems and power supplies specify 12Vdc. Read the individual listing rather than assuming every 12V product uses the same input.
Can 12V LED strip lights be extended?
They can often be joined with compatible connectors, but the total wattage, strip width, connection method and supply capacity still need to be checked. Use the connectors and cabling range for the relevant strip family.
Can 12V LED lights be dimmed?
Many can, if the dimmer matches the voltage, current and light format. The 12V/24V rotary dimmer above is an indoor control option for compatible low-voltage strip systems.
Can I use 12V LED lights outdoors?
Only use a product where the published IP rating and installation method suit the location. An IP20 product is not an outdoor fitting. See the outdoor lighting collection for products designed for that category, then verify the exact product specification.
How can I wire 12V lighting in a campervan or off-grid setup?
The right wiring depends on the battery, fuse protection, switches, cable length and exact light. This page does not replace a vehicle or electrical installation guide. For a project-specific check, contact Future Light with the product, run length and intended use.
Need help matching the system?
Send us the light type, required length, intended location and any existing supply or control equipment. We can help you check the 12V pathway before you order.
Request help with a 12V setup