How To Put Lights Under Kitchen Cabinets

How to Install Under-Cabinet Lighting That Will Transform Your Space

Under-cabinet lighting is a great way to add extra illumination to your kitchen, making it easier to see what you're doing while cooking or cleaning. It can also create a more ambient and inviting atmosphere. If you're thinking about installing under-cabinet lighting in your kitchen, here are the essential steps you need to know.

Choose the Right Lighting

There are many different types of under-cabinet lighting available, so it's important to choose the right ones for your kitchen. Consider the following factors:

Brightness: How bright do you want the lights to be? Brighter lights are better for tasks like cooking, while dimmer lights are better for creating a more ambient atmosphere.
Color temperature: The color temperature of a light is measured in Kelvins (K). Warmer lights (2700K-3500K) are more flattering and inviting, while cooler lights (5000K-6500K) are more energizing and focused.
Type of bulb: There are three main types of bulbs used in under-cabinet lighting: incandescent, halogen, and LED. Incandescent bulbs are the least efficient, while halogen bulbs are more efficient but still produce heat. LED bulbs are the most efficient and produce very little heat.

Plan the Layout

Once you've chosen the right lighting, it's time to plan the layout. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Spacing: The spacing of the lights will affect how evenly the light is distributed. A good rule of thumb is to space the lights about 12-18 inches apart.
Placement: The placement of the lights will also affect how well they illuminate your work surfaces. Try to position the lights so that they shine directly on the areas you need to see the most.

Install the Lights

The installation process will vary depending on the type of lighting you choose. However, here are some general steps to follow:

Disconnect the power: Before you start working on the electrical system, make sure to disconnect the power at the circuit breaker.
Identify the wiring: Locate the wiring for the under-cabinet lighting. You may need to drill a small hole in the cabinet to access the wiring.
Connect the wires: Connect the wires from the lights to the wires from the power source. Make sure to use wire nuts to secure the connections.
Mount the lights: Mount the lights to the underside of the cabinets using screws or adhesive strips.
Reconnect the power: Once the lights are mounted, reconnect the power at the circuit breaker and test the lights.

Enjoy the Results

Once your under-cabinet lighting is installed, you can sit back and enjoy the results. The extra illumination will make your kitchen more functional and inviting, and it will create a more pleasant atmosphere for cooking and entertaining.