Only Some LEDs Are Turning On: Common Issues and Fixes

Only Some of the LEDs Turn On

If your LEDs stop working after a certain point or fail to light up after a branch or jump, this guide will help you identify and resolve the problem. Follow these steps to troubleshoot the most common causes.

1. Incorrect LED Count in WLED Settings

If the total LED count in WLED is set too low, only the specified number of LEDs will light up. To fix this:

  1. Open the WLED app and go to Config > LED Preferences.
  2. Scroll down to Hardware Setup and adjust the Length field to match the total number of LEDs in your setup. If you have 100ft of lights, you need to set it to 200 because it's one light every 6 inches. 
  3. Save your settings and test the lights.

2. LEDs Installed Backwards

If you’re connecting to a partial strand or cut section, ensure the LEDs are installed in the correct direction.

Instructions_DIYKit_ReplacingLED_1

  1. Check Input/Output Sides

    • LEDs have an input and output side as indicated by an arrow on the back of the LEDs.

  2. Reinstall as Needed

    • Adjust the orientation if the LEDs are installed backwards.

3. Data Signal Issues for Long Jumps

​If your jump exceeds 20 feet, the data signal may be too weak to reach the next section.

  1. Add a Data Booster

    • Unplug the Controller Box.
    • Cut the data cable near the midpoint of the jump.
    • Splice in the data booster:
      • Black wire → Gray-striped wire on booster.
      • Green wire → Middle wire on booster.
      • Red wire → Unstriped, not-center wire on booster.

  2. Contact Support for Boosters

4. Poor Connection

Faulty connections can prevent LEDs from lighting up, especially after a branch or jump. Here’s how to troubleshoot:

  1. Use Wago Connectors

    • Wago connectors or similar tools make it easy to verify connections. Once the issue is resolved, you can replace them with permanent connectors.

  2. Check Connections

    • Inspect all connections to ensure they are secure and correctly made.
    • Re-do any questionable connections to eliminate loose or faulty wiring.

  3. Use a Multimeter

    • Test the red and black wires for power at both sides of the jump.
    • Check continuity on the black data wire to ensure there are no breaks or damage.

5. Incorrect Wiring

If the wires were connected incorrectly, LEDs could burn out.

  1. Correct the Wiring

    • Reconnect the wires correctly and test.
    • Check for any LEDs that look burned or scorched.

  2. Remove Damaged LEDs

    • Remove the damaged LEDs and a couple of additional LEDs around them.
    • Reconnect and test again.

6. Faulty or Burned-Out LEDs

A single bad LED can cause all LEDs after it to stop working. 

  1. Unplug the Controller

    • Always unplug the controller box before working on wiring.

  2. Replace the first LED that isn't working

    • Locate the first LED that isn’t working.
    • Cut close to the faulty LED, leaving enough wire for splicing.
    • Splice in a replacement LED, ensuring it faces the correct direction (input/output).
    • Test the lights to confirm the issue is resolved.
    • If this did not resolve the issue, replace the last working LED.

  3. If that didn't work, replace that last working LED

    • Cut close to the faulty LED, leaving enough wire for splicing.
    • Splice in a replacement LED, ensuring it faces the correct direction (input/output).
    • Test the lights to confirm the issue is resolved.

  4. Contact Support for Extras

7. Still Having Issues?

If none of these steps resolve your issue, email us and we'll help you out!