Types of Under Cabinet Lighting
Under cabinet lighting is a popular choice for homeowners looking to improve the functionality and aesthetics of their kitchens and bathrooms. This type of lighting offers a range of benefits, including improved task lighting, enhanced ambiance, and increased safety. When choosing under cabinet lighting, it’s important to consider the different types available, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages.
LED Strips
LED strips are a popular choice for under cabinet lighting due to their versatility, energy efficiency, and affordability. These strips are available in various lengths and colors, allowing you to customize the lighting to your specific needs.
LED strips are incredibly energy-efficient, consuming significantly less power than traditional incandescent bulbs. They also have a long lifespan, lasting up to 50,000 hours. This translates to years of reliable lighting without needing to replace the bulbs frequently.
- Installation: LED strips are generally easy to install, with many models featuring adhesive backing for simple mounting. They can be cut to size, allowing for flexibility in placement and configuration.
- Brightness: LED strips offer a range of brightness options, from soft ambient lighting to bright task lighting. You can choose strips with different lumen outputs to suit your specific needs.
- Examples: Popular brands like Philips Hue and GE offer a wide selection of LED strips for under cabinet lighting. These strips often come with smart features, allowing you to control the lighting through a smartphone app.
Puck Lights
Puck lights are small, circular lights that are typically mounted directly to the underside of cabinets. They offer a focused beam of light, making them ideal for task lighting in areas like countertops and sinks.
- Installation: Puck lights typically require hardwiring, which may necessitate the services of a professional electrician. However, some models offer plug-in options for easier installation.
- Brightness: Puck lights typically offer a moderate level of brightness, making them suitable for task lighting but not as bright as LED strips.
- Examples: Brands like Kichler and Hampton Bay offer a range of puck lights in various finishes and styles to complement different kitchen designs. Some models feature dimming capabilities for adjustable brightness levels.
Recessed Lighting
Recessed lighting, also known as can lighting, involves installing light fixtures into the ceiling or walls. This type of lighting offers a clean and unobtrusive look, making it a popular choice for under cabinet lighting.
- Installation: Recessed lighting typically requires professional installation, as it involves cutting into the ceiling or walls to accommodate the fixtures. However, some models offer easier installation options, such as clip-in fixtures that don’t require permanent wiring.
- Brightness: Recessed lighting offers a wide range of brightness options, depending on the type of bulbs used. They can provide both ambient and task lighting, making them a versatile choice for under cabinet applications.
- Examples: Brands like Halo and Juno offer a wide selection of recessed lighting fixtures for under cabinet applications. These fixtures are available in various sizes and finishes to match different kitchen styles.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Under Cabinet Lighting
Choosing the right under cabinet lighting can significantly enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your kitchen. This type of lighting provides focused illumination for tasks like food preparation, cleaning, and dining, while also adding a touch of elegance to the space. Here are some important factors to consider when selecting under cabinet lighting for your kitchen.
Brightness Level
The brightness level of your under cabinet lighting is crucial for ensuring adequate task illumination. It should be bright enough to illuminate your work surfaces without creating glare or shadows. The brightness of under cabinet lighting is measured in lumens, with higher lumen values indicating brighter lights.
For general kitchen tasks, aim for a brightness level of at least 300 lumens per foot of counter space. If you have a large kitchen or perform tasks requiring high precision, you may need a higher lumen output.
Color Temperature
Color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K), determines the color hue of the light emitted by your under cabinet lighting. Warm white light (2700-3000K) has a yellowish hue, while cool white light (4000-4500K) has a bluish hue.
For kitchens, a color temperature of 3000-3500K is generally recommended, as it provides a warm and inviting atmosphere while still providing adequate task lighting.
Dimming Capabilities
Dimming capabilities allow you to adjust the brightness of your under cabinet lighting to suit your needs and preferences. Dimmable lighting is particularly useful for creating different moods and ambiances in your kitchen.
If you prefer a more intimate dining experience, you can dim the lights for a softer, more romantic atmosphere.
Installation Requirements
Installation requirements vary depending on the type of under cabinet lighting you choose. Some lights require hardwiring, while others can be plugged into an outlet.
Hardwired lights are typically more expensive to install but offer greater flexibility in terms of placement. Plug-in lights are easier to install but may require an outlet near the cabinets.
Complementary Kitchen Lighting
Your under cabinet lighting should complement your existing kitchen lighting to create a cohesive and visually appealing space.
Consider the type and placement of your overhead lighting, as well as the overall design aesthetic of your kitchen.
Installation and Maintenance Tips: Best Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting
Installing hardwired under cabinet lighting can be a DIY project, but it requires some basic electrical knowledge and safety precautions. It’s crucial to shut off power to the circuit before working on electrical wiring.
Installing Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting
Here’s a step-by-step guide for installing hardwired under cabinet lighting:
- Plan Your Lighting Layout: Determine the number of fixtures, their placement, and the type of bulbs you’ll use. Measure the area where you’ll install the lighting and consider the size and shape of the cabinets.
- Gather the Necessary Tools: You’ll need basic tools like a screwdriver, wire strippers, a level, a drill, and a stud finder. You might also need a voltage tester to ensure the power is off.
- Turn Off Power: Locate the circuit breaker that controls the area where you’ll install the lighting and turn it off. Double-check that the power is off by using a voltage tester.
- Mount the Lighting Fixtures: Depending on the type of fixtures, you may need to mount them directly to the cabinet or use mounting brackets. Ensure the fixtures are level and secure.
- Connect the Wiring: Connect the wiring from the lighting fixtures to the electrical junction box. Use wire nuts to secure the connections and ensure the wires are properly insulated.
- Turn On Power: Once the wiring is complete, turn the power back on at the circuit breaker and test the lights to ensure they are working properly.
Connecting to the Electrical System, Best hardwired under cabinet lighting
When connecting under cabinet lighting to the electrical system, consider the following:
- Circuit Breaker Capacity: Ensure the circuit breaker can handle the combined wattage of all the lights you plan to install.
- Wiring Gauge: Use the appropriate gauge of wire for the amperage required by the lights. Consult an electrician if you’re unsure.
- Grounding: Ensure all connections are properly grounded to prevent electrical shocks.
Maintaining Under Cabinet Lighting
Regular maintenance can ensure optimal performance and longevity of your under cabinet lighting. Here are some tips:
- Clean Regularly: Dust and debris can accumulate on the fixtures, affecting the light output. Use a soft cloth to clean the fixtures and bulbs.
- Replace Bulbs Promptly: When a bulb burns out, replace it with a bulb of the same type and wattage. Avoid using bulbs with higher wattage than recommended as this can overheat the fixture.
- Check Connections: Periodically inspect the wiring connections to ensure they are secure and properly insulated.
Best hardwired under cabinet lighting can elevate any bathroom’s ambiance, particularly when paired with a classic design scheme like white cabinets and gray countertops. This combination creates a clean, airy feel, allowing the lighting to accentuate the space and enhance the overall aesthetic.
With its versatility and ability to illuminate both functional and decorative elements, hardwired under cabinet lighting can seamlessly blend into this timeless bathroom design, ensuring a polished and inviting atmosphere.
Best hardwired under cabinet lighting offers a sleek and functional solution for illuminating your kitchen workspace. However, if you’re planning a major renovation, you might consider replacing your granite countertops. Before embarking on this task, it’s crucial to understand the nuances of removing granite countertops without damaging cabinets.
This process requires careful planning and execution to avoid damaging your existing cabinets. Once the countertops are removed, you can then focus on installing your new hardwired under cabinet lighting, ensuring a seamless transition from old to new.
