Powering LEDs from Vehicle Cigarette Lighters

 LED Lights and Cigarette Lighters - Do They Go Together?

LED lights have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their brightness, energy efficiency, and long lifespan. Many people are now interested in powering or charging LED devices using their car's cigarette lighter or 12V power outlet. But is this actually possible and safe? Let's take a closer look.

How Do Cigarette Lighters Work?

The cigarette lighter outlet in your car connects directly to the vehicle's 12-volt electrical system. When you push the lighter in, it makes contact with two electrical terminals, allowing current to flow and heat up a heating element. This allows it to get hot enough to light a cigarette. When you release the lighter, the spring pushes it back out and disconnects the circuit. 

The outlet can provide a decent amount of power, around 10-15 amps on average. That's enough to run smaller electronics like chargers and inverters. Larger devices like power tools might overload the circuit. The lighter socket is also not designed for prolonged power draw, since cigarettes only take a minute or less to light. Using the outlet for long periods while the engine is off could drain the car's battery.

Are LED Lights 12V Compatible?

Small LED lights typically operate on DC voltages ranging from 1.5V to 24V. Many run on 12V DC, which makes them compatible with a car's electrical system. LED strips and other accessories meant for automotive use will be designed specifically for 12V power input. 

However, not all LED lights fall within the ideal voltage range. Battery-powered LEDs may use voltages around 1.5V up to 9V. Higher-power LED fixtures can run on 24V or more. So the input voltage requirements need to be checked before connecting an LED to a 12V cigarette lighter. Exceeding the max voltage rating can damage or destroy the LED components.

Wiring LED Lights to a Cigarette Lighter Socket

Assuming the LED is 12V compatible, there are a couple options for wiring it to the car's cigarette lighter. One method is splicing the LED wires directly to the outlet terminals. This bypasses the lighter itself and provides a constant power feed. It requires basic electrical skills and tools for safely making connections.

Another option is to use an adapter. There are splitter adapters that plug into the lighter socket, then provide two power outlets to connect devices to. There are also USB adapters that step the 12V cigarette lighter power down to standard 5V USB voltage. So this allows running LED lights, strips, or other accessories that are made for USB power input.

No matter the wiring method, proper gauge wire should be used that can handle the expected amp draw. Thin, low-current wires can overheat easily. Wiring multiple high-power LEDs to the cigarette socket would require thick, high-current cabling. Always check the max current rating for the lighter outlet, usually 10-15A, and do not exceed it.

Is Powering LEDs from a Cigarette Lighter Safe? 

There are no major safety issues with tapping power from a cigarette lighter to run small LED lights or accessories. But there are some best practices to follow:

- Use LED devices actually designed for 12V automotive use for the best compatibility. Consumer LEDs may not tolerate car voltage fluctuations well.

- Verify the LED's voltage and power requirements work with the approximately 12V supply from the lighter. Over-voltage can destroy LEDs.

- Use appropriately sized wiring that can handle the expected electrical current load. Thin wires pose a fire hazard.

- Use fuses or circuit breakers on the wiring to prevent dangerous shorts or overloads.

- Do not leave high-power LED accessories on for long periods when the engine is off. This can kill the car battery over time.

- Avoid wiring multiple high-power devices that could exceed the lighter socket's max current rating, usually 10-15A max.

- Make sure all electrical connections are secure and well-insulated to prevent shorts.  

Summary

So in summary, tapping some moderate-power LED lighting off of the cigarette socket is typically safe. Just use automotive-rated LED devices, properly sized wiring, and electrical safety practices. Only use the socket for short term power needs, not prolonged periods when the car is off. Following the car socket's current rating is also critical to avoid overloads. With the right approach, LEDs can be powered safely and effectively from the convenience of the cigarette lighter.