A Real-World Test and Wiring Guide for Safe Series Connection
Many students, hobbyists, and installers ask this exact question:
“Can I safely run 12V LED strips using a 24V power supply?”
✅ Yes, you can — but only if you wire them correctly in series.
❌ If you connect a 24V power supply directly to a single 12V strip, you will burn it out instantly.
What We Did: A Practical Test Setup
We connected two identical 12V LED strips in series and powered them using a 24V regulated bench power supply.
NB
- Identical lengths of exactly the same strip
- Identical length supply cable connects the strip on the positive and negative terminals
- We have provided two wiring scenarios.
The Correct Wiring Method: Series Connection
24V PSU + ▶ (+) Strip 1 (−) ▶ (+) Strip 2 (−) ▶ 24V PSU −
Each strip receives exactly 12V, and the current flows through both evenly.
Real Results from Our Test
| Measurement | Value |
|---|---|
| PSU Voltage | 24.00V DC |
| Current Draw | 0.143 A |
| Total Power Output | 3.4 Watts |
| Voltage per Strip | 12V each |
⚠️ Warning: NEVER Do This
Do not wire 12V LED strips in parallel on a 24V power supply. This sends 24V directly across each 12V strip — and they will burn out instantly.
How Series Wiring Works (In Simple Terms)
- Current flows through both strips one after the other
- 24V is split evenly if both strips are identical
- Each LED strip drops 12V — so both work perfectly
When to Use This Setup
- You only have 12V strips, but a 24V power supply
- You want to reduce wiring complexity
- You're doing test setups, lightboxes, or classroom demos
When You Should NOT Use It
- If the strips are not identical
- If you're unsure about wiring polarity
- If you plan to mix voltages or use parallel wiring
Bonus Tip: Want to Use 3 Strips?
You can apply the same method with three 12V strips on a 36V PSU, or four 12V strips on a 48V PSU — again, only if:
- All strips are identical
- You wire them in series
Final Thoughts
You can run 12V LED strips on a 24V power supply if and only if you wire them in series. This technique is smart, scalable, and useful in both education and installation.
Need help? Email us or browse our LED Strip Lights.
