An Enlightening DIY Experience

Installing LED lighting is a simple project that can make a big improvement to any RV’s interior or exterior.

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Story and Photos by Jason Betzing

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) have been shining bright in RVs for several years now, and our fifth wheel is no exception. Increased availability, new configurations and decreased prices have made these lighting options an ideal standard, and also make for great DIY projects to brighten things up and provide that added touch. Here are some popular ones to consider, and a few that we’ve done.

Why LEDs?

These tiny lights, also called chipsets or surface mounted diodes (SMDs), have many advantages for RVs that we call home. One of the most notable advantages is their energy efficiency, especially while boondocking as LEDs slowly sip power compared to their electric-chugging incandescent cousins.

They won't burn on you since they don't radiate heat like standard bulbs, which is important as incandescent lights equal wasted power. Durability is another important aspect as they typically last 50 times longer than incandescent bulbs, and don’t have a filament to break.

For all of the positives, there are a few negatives. First, they may cost more than traditional bulbs, depending on the configuration. Secondly, the light they put off can fade or change over time, although this is usually an issue among cheaply made chip sets. Finally, some LED fixtures do not have changeable bulbs. So, if an LED goes dark, the whole fixture needs to be replaced.

Ideal for Custom DIY Projects

These lights have a couple of features that make them a great choice for custom DIY projects. They come in an impressive array of colours – from intense bright-white task lighting to mood setting packages. Some can even be controlled remotely and Bluetooth technology.

They are also power-friendly. They'll use a variety of power sources depending on how and where they are installed. Many companies sell LED kits for specific projects with plug and play components, making an install even easier. Plus, since LED chips take up such little space, they can light up even the tightest of spaces

LED Upgrade and Retrofit

Replacing traditional bulbs with LEDs is as easy as, well, changing a lightbulb. Our Montana came with incandescent exterior lights. We wanted the higher visibility and longevity that LEDs provide, so we swapped them all out. Simply remove the cover for all of the lights and pull the bulbs. Most bulbs are labeled on the base. With a list of bulb types and how many I'd need, I purchased the right quantity, (plus spares) online. Once delivered, the swap out was quick and easy.

An interior lighting upgrade to LEDs can make a huge difference. Our first RV was an early 1990s Prowler we dragged around the U.S. a few times, testing out the full-timing RV concept. While the previous owners kept it immaculate, it still felt drab and dated inside even after updating fabrics and finishes.

We realized the lighting was the problem. Once we upgraded to LEDs, the interior felt reinvigorated. There are different lighting colour/temperatures ideal for certain jobs. Basically, there's warm white (comfortable, relaxing), neutral white (bright, clean), and bright white (crisp, energetic).

A neutral white or bright white is ideal for task lighting such as kitchens and bathrooms. For typically dark areas like closets and pantries, we prefer the bright white. The warm white LEDs are perfect for spaces we relax in such as living and dining areas.

Non-Permanent Solutions

There are many non-permanent LED options, which plug into the wall, take standard batteries or are rechargeable. We use an automatic LED night light in the bathroom that casts a soft, warm glow. For reading lights, we each wanted our own and after installing overhead puck lights, we found they were too intense for a non-permanent solution. We now use clip-on style LED touch lamps. They are rechargeable, adjustable and have three light levels - perfect task lights.

Wouldn't it be Nice If...?

After nearly three years of full-time RVing, we started thinking "wouldn't it be nice if…?" One thing we disliked was the dreary pantry lighting. The standard puck light we had was meager and it only illuminated the top shelf, which made a chore of hunting for that last bag of microwave popcorn or elusive can of tomato sauce in the back of the cupboard.

So, with a new light source, I secured power by pulling the fuse. I then simply unscrewed and pulled down the 12V fixture, disconnecting the wires. These wires were fished through a small hole I drilled in the corner. I connected them to the self-adhesive LED strip and sent one of the wires first through a door switch, which allows the lights to automatically come on when the door is open, and turn-off when it’s closed (think refrigerator door).

A Unique Solution

I recently discovered the world of whisky, specifically bourbon. The problem with any collection in an RV is space. Like many floor plans, there's a small cupboard/coat closet near the entry door and again, I was struck by "Wouldn't it be nice if…?" The small space evolved into a junk collector; whatever ‘stuff’ didn't have a spot in our RV eventually landed there.

I began thinking it would be a perfect space to store my whisky collection. The advantage is that I was creating something new, so the only limit was my imagination and of course, space. After some careful measuring, brainstorming, and Googling, I decided under-lit LED shelves would properly showcase my growing collection of spirits.

I wanted the shelving to be simple so I sketched out some simple plans, and cut the wood that would frame and support the acrylic shelves. The clear acrylic sheets were trimmed to size and sprayed on the underside with a frosted paint (this also could've been accomplished by sanding the underside with fine grit sandpaper).

Like the pantry project, I wired in a door switch. So, when the door now opens, the warm glow of my bourbon collection pours out, bringing liquid happiness to all. When it’s closed, its lights out. I accessed power by drilling a small hole and tapping into 12V wiring that powers our buffet lights, which we rarely use. It will safely store 20 bottles. Tension rods across each shelf secure the bottles when traveling. We're very pleased with how it turned out.

From simple bulb changing to creative frosted shelving, there’s really is no limit on how you use LEDs to light your way in your RV at a destination. It's rewarding to complete projects that make the lifestyle a richer experience. Don't be afraid to ask yourself, "Wouldn't it be nice if...?"

Jason Betzing and his wife sold it all to live their Full Time RV dream. He retired at age 40 and they decided winter is a drag and world travel is more fun than shoveling snow. He loves helping people through sharing authentic, first-hand experience. Connect on Instagram @FullTimeFire, on Facebook @MilesTwoGo or on his blog at https://www.MilesTwoGo.com

Key DIY LED Install Tips

Before diving into a LED DIY project, here are a few aspects to consider that can make your project go smoother.

  • If using LED strips, make sure to plan their placement and correctly measure to determine the right length. Always buy more than you need. You can usually cut it to length for a clean install.
  • Carefully think the project through to make sure you have the tools and supplies necessary. Look for ideal locations so you can tuck the LEDs out of sight, and towards the area you want illuminated; you don't want them blinding you.
  • Consider the temperature of the lights. For deep shelves or large areas like closets, the bright white would properly illuminate the space pretty well. For more shallow shelves, you may prefer neutral white. For festive moods, colour changing and reactive lights that change with music would be a great choice.
  • Determine how you will power the LEDs. In both projects above, I was able to access 12V wiring. I prefer to tap into a 12V system since it allows for a cleaner install and takes up less space. Plus, there are no batteries to change. If there's a 110V outlet nearby, you can get an adapter and simply plug it in. In the absence of any power source, you can still use a battery bank. The one I was considering for the pantry project used 8-AA batteries.
  • Secure the power and properly follow safety protocols and the manufacturer’s instructions.

Popular Project Ideas

  • Pantry/Closet lighting with self-adhesive LED tape and door switch
  • Awning track lighting with remote colour changing LEDs
  • Under cabinet/counter lighting
  • Motion-activated LED fixtures on stairs
  • Ambient LED lighting under countertops