When installing a power supply for LED lighting, many issues stem not from the wiring itself, but from how the PSU is mounted and cooled. This guide will help you avoid heat damage, flickering, and early failures.
📐 Why Mounting Orientation Matters
Power supplies should always be mounted horizontally with the vent side up. This allows heat to rise and escape through the unit naturally. Mounting vertically causes heat to travel across internal components — cooking the whole board.
- ✅ Horizontal mount = proper convection cooling
- ❌ Vertical mount = heat builds up internally, reducing lifespan
🌬️ Allow Room for Airflow
All power supplies need ventilation. Even “fanless” units depend on passive airflow:
- Leave at least 1 inch of clearance around all sides
- Don’t enclose the PSU in a sealed cabinet without ventilation
- Avoid placing PSUs in direct sunlight or near heat sources
⚡ Earthing and Wiring Best Practices
Securely connect the earth (ground) wire on every power supply. This is not optional — it's a core safety feature. Other wiring tips include:
- Use appropriate strain relief or cable glands to prevent wire movement
- Secure wires to surfaces, not left to dangle or tug
- Always cover AC connections and don’t leave exposed terminal blocks
🌡️ Understanding PSU Derating and Heat
All power supplies have a rated output — but high heat can reduce that capability. This is called derating. Mounted improperly, your 100W PSU might only deliver 70W before overheating.
- Install in cool, ventilated locations
- If inside an enclosure, add vents or active cooling
- Never “stack” PSUs without spacing
🚫 What NOT to Do (Common Mistakes)
- ❌ Mounting a PSU vertically or upside down
- ❌ Letting the unit hang by its wires
- ❌ Sealing it in a tight box with no vents
- ❌ Running AC and DC wires too close without insulation
🧰 Pro Mounting Accessories
Wired4Signs USA offers brackets, enclosures, and strain-relief fittings for secure installs. View our range:
🧯 Summary
Correct mounting = longer lifespan, safer install, fewer callbacks.
- Mount power supplies horizontally
- Allow for airflow and heat escape
- Ground the unit and support all wires properly
Take the extra time to mount things correctly — it’s worth it.
📸 Next Up in the Series:
Part 5 – Silicone Sealant and LED Strip Failure: The Silent Killer
We’ll expose why certain silicone sealants can destroy your LEDs — and what’s safe to use instead.
