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Under-Cabinet Lighting Ideas to Brighten Up Your Kitchen

In FEATURED
May 21, 2023
Under-Cabinet Lighting Ideas to Brighten Up Your Kitchen

Under-Cabinet Lighting Ideas to Brighten Up Your Kitchen

Under-cabinet lighting may be subtle and not draw as much attention as a chandelier hanging from the ceiling, but it can brighten up your countertops, making the precision tasks of slicing and chopping a lot easier and safer. They are also rather inexpensive.

  1. Types of Under-Cabinet Lighting
  2. Under-Cabinet Lighting Installation
  3. Types of Bulbs for Under-Cabinet Lighting

Types of Under-Cabinet Lighting

Types of Under-Cabinet Lighting

Types of Under-Cabinet Lighting

Under-cabinet lighting refers to the lighting fixtures installed underneath cabinets, typically in kitchens, to provide task lighting and enhance visibility on countertops. There are several types of under-cabinet lighting available. Here are some common options:

1. Puck Lights: Puck lights are small, round-shaped fixtures that can be recessed or surface-mounted. They provide localized lighting and are often used to highlight specific areas or objects on the countertop.

2. Linear Strip Lights: Linear strip lights are long, narrow fixtures that can be installed in a continuous row or individually. They offer even illumination along the length of the cabinet and are available in various lengths and brightness levels.

3. LED Tape Lights: LED tape lights consist of a flexible strip with an adhesive backing that can be easily attached to the underside of cabinets. They are highly versatile, allowing you to cut them to the desired length, and are available in different colors and brightness options.

4. Light Bars: Light bars are rigid fixtures that are typically surface-mounted under the cabinets. They provide uniform illumination across the countertop and are available in various lengths.

5. Rope Lights: Rope lights are flexible, tubular fixtures that emit a soft glow. They are often used for decorative purposes and can be easily installed along the bottom edge of cabinets.

6. Xenon Lights: Xenon under-cabinet lights produce a warm, incandescent-like glow. They are known for their excellent color rendering properties, making them suitable for tasks that require accurate color representation.

7. Fluorescent Lights: Fluorescent under-cabinet lights are energy-efficient and provide bright, even lighting. They are available in different lengths and can cover larger areas.

When choosing under-cabinet lighting, consider factors such as the desired level of brightness, color temperature, energy efficiency, installation method, and the specific needs of your space.

Under-Cabinet Lighting Installation

Under-Cabinet Lighting Installation

Under-Cabinet Lighting Installation

Installing under-cabinet lighting can be done as a DIY project, but it does require electrical knowledge and skills. Here’s a general guide for under-cabinet lighting installation:

1. Plan the Layout: Decide where you want to install the lights and determine the number and type of fixtures you’ll need. Measure the length of the cabinets and countertop to determine the length of lighting strips or bars required.

2. Gather the Materials: Purchase the necessary under-cabinet lighting fixtures, power supply or transformer (if required), wiring, connectors, switches (if desired), and any additional tools such as a drill, screwdriver, wire strippers, and a voltage tester.

3. Turn off the Power: Before starting any electrical work, turn off the power to the area where you’ll be installing the lights. Locate the circuit breaker that controls the kitchen or the specific outlet, and switch it off.

4. Mark the Locations: Use a pencil or tape to mark the placement of the lights on the underside of the cabinets. Ensure that the placement is centered and aligned with the front edge of the cabinet.

5. Install the Power Source: Depending on the type of under-cabinet lighting, you may need to install a power source or transformer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. It usually involves mounting the power source in a hidden location, such as inside a cabinet, and connecting it to an electrical outlet.

6. Mount the Fixtures: Install the lighting fixtures according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves screwing or attaching the fixtures to the underside of the cabinets using the provided mounting hardware.

7. Wire the Lights: Connect the wiring from the fixtures to the power source or transformer. Strip the insulation from the ends of the wires, connect them using wire connectors, and secure the connections with electrical tape. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper wiring and connection methods.

8. Test the Connections: Once the wiring is complete, use a voltage tester to ensure that the power is properly connected and there are no electrical faults. Double-check all connections and make sure they are secure.

9. Mount the Switch (Optional): If you want to install a switch to control the under-cabinet lights, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for switch installation. This may involve drilling holes for the switch and connecting the wiring.

10. Restore Power and Test: After completing the installation, turn on the power at the circuit breaker and test the lights to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Remember, if you’re not comfortable with electrical work or unsure about any step of the installation process, it’s best to consult a licensed electrician for assistance. Safety should always be a top priority when working with electricity.

Types of Bulbs for Under-Cabinet Lighting

Types of Bulbs for Under-Cabinet Lighting

Types of Bulbs for Under-Cabinet Lighting

When it comes to choosing bulbs for under-cabinet lighting, there are a few different options available. Here are some common types of bulbs used for under-cabinet lighting:

1. LED Bulbs: LED (Light Emitting Diode) bulbs are a popular choice for under-cabinet lighting due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and versatility. LED bulbs produce very little heat, making them safe to use in close proximity to cabinets and countertops. They are available in various color temperatures, including warm white, cool white, and daylight, allowing you to achieve the desired ambiance and task lighting.

2. Halogen Bulbs: Halogen bulbs produce a bright, white light and are known for their excellent color rendering properties. They provide focused illumination, making them suitable for tasks that require accurate color representation. However, halogen bulbs can generate heat and may require proper ventilation or heat dissipation measures when used in enclosed spaces.

3. Fluorescent Tubes: Fluorescent tubes have been commonly used in under-cabinet lighting due to their efficiency and widespread availability. They provide a soft, even light and are available in different lengths and color temperatures. However, fluorescent bulbs may have a slightly longer warm-up time and contain small amounts of mercury, requiring proper disposal methods.

4. Xenon Bulbs: Xenon bulbs emit a warm, incandescent-like glow and offer excellent color rendering capabilities. They are often chosen for under-cabinet lighting when a warm and cozy ambiance is desired. Xenon bulbs produce some heat, but generally less than halogen bulbs.

5. Incandescent Bulbs: Incandescent bulbs are the traditional type of light bulbs, but they are less commonly used for under-cabinet lighting due to their lower energy efficiency and shorter lifespan compared to other options. They produce a warm, yellowish light but generate more heat than LED or fluorescent bulbs.

When selecting bulbs for under-cabinet lighting, consider factors such as the desired brightness, color temperature, energy efficiency, and the specific requirements of your space. LED bulbs are generally recommended for their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and versatility, but the choice ultimately depends on your preferences and lighting needs.

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Shagufta Naz is a Multi-disciplinary Designer who is leading NewzFlex Product Design Team and also working on the Strategic planning & development for branded content across NewzFlex Digital Platforms through comprehensive research and data analysis. She is currently working as the Principal UI/UX Designer & Content-writer for NewzFlex and its projects, and also as an Editor for the sponsored section of NewzFlex.

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