I Lost My LED Light Remote: 4 Things You Can Do Now (2024)

When was the last time you used old-school CFL bulbs? It’s been ages, right? Thanks to their convenient remote accessibility, everybody is now using LEDs instead. But the handy size of LED remotes makes them easy to lose. Maybe it’s under your bed or your table. So what if you lost your LED light remote?

You don’t have to freak out if you lose your LED light remote. LED light remotes don’t cost that much, so you can easily buy another one. Another cheaper option is to get a mobile app to control your LED lights. Better yet, you can just plug the lights directly into the socket. Alternatively, buy another set of LED lights to get a new remote!

Losing your LED light remote is no big deal. If you don’t like any of the above options, you can get a universal remote to control your LED lights.

What Are My Options To Replace A Lost LED Light Remote?

Losing your LED light remote isn’t the end of the world. Luckily for you, there are several other ways to solve this problem without ripping a hole through your pocket. Here’s our take on the matter:

• Table of Contents

  • Buy Another Remote
  • Check Out Smartphone Apps
  • Plug It In Directly
  • Buy Another Set of LED Lights From the Same Manufacturer
  • Budget
  • Ease of Use
  • Capacity

  Buy Another Remote

Unlike how it sounds, your best bet is to replace your missing remote with a new one. Not only is it the most cost-effective solution, but it will also help you operate your LED lights without trouble.

All you need to do is ensure that the remote is compatible with your LED light set. If you’re confused about how to do that, check out the model numbers and other information from your LED strips. Then, you can relay that information to the seller, and they will help you find a remote that’s compatible with your light set. If you’re shopping online, you can check out the compatibility list of the remote that you’re interested in.

• Check Out Smartphone Apps

Unfortunately, this option is not for everyone. Some specific models of LED lights are accessible via mobile apps. If you’re unsure whether your LED lights are of such type, just look up on Google whether your lights have such accessibility. To do that, you’ll need to know the manufacturer’s details.

If your LED lights are accessible via apps, look up a suitable app in the designated app store, either Google Play or Apple App Store. These apps will offer all of the functions that your original remote offered.

• Plug It In Directly

Maybe the simplest solution is this one. You can simply plug in your LED lights to the socket in the wall. And to turn it off, just unplug it. However, this defeats the purpose of remote-controlled LED lights.

Moreover, not all LED lights can simply be plugged into the wall. Some LED lights come equipped with power functions and integrated remotes. If yours is of such kind, you won’t be able to plug in your LED strip.

• Buy Another Set of LED Lights From the Same Manufacturer

Another recommended option is to buy another set of lights. Before outright rejecting this idea, hear this out!

First, it will give you a backup in case your current LED lights go bad. Secondly, the newer set of lights will help you decorate your house with even more hues and colors. And finally, the new set of lights will come with a new remote with which you can control both.

However, to get the last advantage, you’ll need to get the new lights from the same manufacturer as your original LED lights.

How Can I Connect LED Lights To Apps?

There are many different smart LED lights available on the market. Thankfully, the process of connecting them to your phone is more or less the same. However, keep in mind that you need to pick the lights that have apps available on the app store.

To start the process, download a compatible app onto your device. Now, you need to check whether your lights can connect to WiFi. You can connect it directly to the router if it does have the option. Some other lights can connect to your phone through Bluetooth connection.

Now that you’ve connected your lights to your mobile device, you need to get into the app. Generally, you’ll need to register an account to connect your device. Once you’ve logged in, you should be able to use the app’s functions.

Factors To Consider Before Choosing Replacement Options

When buying another remote for your LED light strips, there are a few things that you need to consider. Remembering these crucial points will help you make the best choice of the options available.

Budget

If you’re looking to spend not too much on a remote, you should go for InfraRed, better known as IR, remote control. They are the most economical option, and their service is not too bad.

However, you need to remember that you get what you pay for. The IR remotes tend to have a shorter range (about five meters), and you need to point them directly at your light set to control them. And even then, if there’s any obstacle between the IR blaster and the light, the command is very unlikely to be received.

Ease of Use

If you don’t mind paying a higher price for greater convenience, you should consider Radio Frequency, also known as RF remote controls. They are the more advanced and practical version of their IR counterparts.

While they’re a bit more pricey than their predecessors, the RF control function allows you to control your lights from a broader range. Moreover, you’ll also not need a direct line of sight to make the remote work.

Capacity

As we said earlier, you get what you pay for. When buying LED light remotes, there’s another vital factor that you have to consider. And that is the remote’s capacity.

Cheaper remotes usually have a limit of six amperes. So, you’ll have a limit to the number of lights you can control with that remote. On the other hand, if you want a remote with a greater capacity, you’ll need to pay a little extra.

Moreover, your remote will also define how many colors you can use in your LED light. So, you need to pay attention to that as well.

Read Also:

Why Does My TV Remote Control my LED Lights

Possible Reasons Why Led Light Remote Is Not Working

Is A Third-Party Remote Worth It? Should I Get New LED Lights?

The decision entirely depends on your budget and preference whether you should get new LED lights or settle for a third-party remote control for the old lights.

For example, if you’re trying to light up your whole house like it’s nobody’s business, chances are, you’ll probably need more than one remote. In that case, buying another LED light set is easier than buying a remote since you’ll need more lights anyway.

On the other hand, if you’re just trying to decorate your room, it would be advisable to stick to buying another remote. Just remember to adhere to the compatibility guidelines we discussed earlier.

Make sure to match the third-party remote you get from your local hardware shop to the technical specifications of the original OEM remote. Also, test whether the replica remote works well and can control your original LED light before making the final purchase.

Also, keep in mind that the third-party remote you choose will not be from the original LED manufacturer. Since it will use sub-par technology, you might not get similar responsiveness from the new remote.

Furthermore, the coverage capacity and range of connectivity might also be lower in comparison. You won’t be able to control your old LEDs from the same distance as before.

Lastly, the build quality will be of concern. Because of using cheaper materials, the new third-party remote might not last as long and be prone to breakage upon sudden impact. So you’ll have to be a bit more careful not to drop it accidentally while using it.

All in all, it’s up to you to choose what you want to do. Please make a choice based on the factors we discussed and shop accordingly.

Final Words

LED lights have gained massive popularity over the past few years thanks to their versatility. Not only can they light up your house, but they can also do it in a way that expresses who you are.

So as you see, there’s nothing to freak out about if you lose the remote to your LED lights. There are so many other options out there. You can either replace your lost LED light remote with a new one, use an app, or get another set of LED lights. The world is your oyster. Just follow the instructions we stated above, and you should be fine.

Mark Braeden

I am Mark Braeden, a professional electrician based in California. With over a decade of experience in the electrical industry, I have launched this website with the aim of sharing my expertise and providing solutions to common lighting issues that can cause frustration for homeowners.

Whether you need help selecting the right bulb for your living room lamp or require guidance in installing LED strip lights, I am here to assist you.

But it’s not just about fixing problems. I’m also here to inspire you with all sorts of creative lighting ideas that can transform your home.