How to choose the right LED driver for your light
If an LED light has stopped working, started flickering or lost brightness, the driver may be the cause. When replacing it, choosing a model with similar power is not enough. You must also check a few other important specifications.
This simple guide explains what to look for.
What is an LED driver?
An LED driver supplies and regulates the power used by LEDs. It works in a similar way to a mobile phone charger, providing the correct power so that the light operates safely and reliably.
An incompatible driver can cause faults, flickering or reduce the lifespan of the LEDs.
What should you check before buying?
1. Check the label on the old driver
Start by checking the label on the driver you want to replace. It normally shows the voltage, current, power and operating type.
Pay particular attention to the values marked OUTPUT.
2. Identify the type of driver
There are two main types:
Constant current: usually shows a value in milliamps, such as 350 mA, 500 mA or 700 mA, together with a voltage range.
Constant voltage: shows a fixed output voltage, usually 12 V or 24 V.
The new driver must be the same type as the original.
3. Compare the output voltage and current
For a constant-current driver, the mA value should match the value shown on the original driver. The voltage range must also be suitable for the light.
For a constant-voltage driver, the output voltage must be the same. For example, a 24 V lighting system needs a driver with a 24 V output.
4. Check the power
The driver must be able to supply the power required by the light or LED system. For constant-voltage installations, it is advisable to leave a small amount of spare capacity.
Do not choose a driver based only on its wattage. The voltage and current must also be compatible.
5. Check the other features
Before buying, also confirm:
Compatibility with the electrical supply;
Dimming compatibility, if the light is dimmable;
The size and type of connections;
The correct protection for indoor, damp or outdoor locations;
Protection against short circuits, overvoltage and overheating.
Quick checklist
Before choosing a driver, check:
The same operating type;
Compatible voltage and current;
Sufficient power;
Dimming compatibility, if required;
Suitable dimensions and protection.
Still unsure?
Choosing an LED driver can seem complicated, but the Wattlamp team can help you find a compatible option.
Send us photos of your driver via WhatsApp. Our team will help you find the most suitable model.
Send photos via WhatsApp
This simple guide explains what to look for.
What is an LED driver?
An LED driver supplies and regulates the power used by LEDs. It works in a similar way to a mobile phone charger, providing the correct power so that the light operates safely and reliably.
An incompatible driver can cause faults, flickering or reduce the lifespan of the LEDs.
What should you check before buying?
1. Check the label on the old driver
Start by checking the label on the driver you want to replace. It normally shows the voltage, current, power and operating type.
Pay particular attention to the values marked OUTPUT.
2. Identify the type of driver
There are two main types:
Constant current: usually shows a value in milliamps, such as 350 mA, 500 mA or 700 mA, together with a voltage range.
Constant voltage: shows a fixed output voltage, usually 12 V or 24 V.
The new driver must be the same type as the original.
3. Compare the output voltage and current
For a constant-current driver, the mA value should match the value shown on the original driver. The voltage range must also be suitable for the light.
For a constant-voltage driver, the output voltage must be the same. For example, a 24 V lighting system needs a driver with a 24 V output.
4. Check the power
The driver must be able to supply the power required by the light or LED system. For constant-voltage installations, it is advisable to leave a small amount of spare capacity.
Do not choose a driver based only on its wattage. The voltage and current must also be compatible.
5. Check the other features
Before buying, also confirm:
Compatibility with the electrical supply;
Dimming compatibility, if the light is dimmable;
The size and type of connections;
The correct protection for indoor, damp or outdoor locations;
Protection against short circuits, overvoltage and overheating.
Quick checklist
Before choosing a driver, check:
The same operating type;
Compatible voltage and current;
Sufficient power;
Dimming compatibility, if required;
Suitable dimensions and protection.
Still unsure?
Choosing an LED driver can seem complicated, but the Wattlamp team can help you find a compatible option.
Send us photos of your driver via WhatsApp. Our team will help you find the most suitable model.
Send photos via WhatsApp
