Strip Lights For Under Kitchen Cabinets

Strip Lights For Under Kitchen Cabinets: Essential Aspects To Consider

Adding strip lights to your kitchen cabinets can bring a touch of modern flair and improve the overall functionality of your workspace. Here are some essential aspects to consider when choosing and installing strip lights under kitchen cabinets:

1. Type of Strip Lights:

Choose between SMD (Surface-Mounted Device) or COB (Chip-On-Board) strip lights. SMD lights have individual LEDs visible, while COB lights have a continuous light strip, offering a more diffused illumination. COB lights are generally brighter and can create a seamless glow.

2. Color Temperature:

Select the color temperature that suits your kitchen's ambiance. Warm white (2700K-3000K) creates a cozy atmosphere, neutral white (4000K-4500K) provides balanced lighting, and cool white (6000K+) offers a brighter and more modern look.

3. Brightness:

The brightness of strip lights is measured in lumens per foot. Consider the size of your kitchen and the desired illumination level. A brighter kitchen may require 500-700 lumens per foot, while a smaller or darker kitchen can use 250-500 lumens per foot.

4. Waterproof Rating:

Choose strip lights with an IP (Ingress Protection) rating of at least IP44 for areas near water sources like sinks or stovetops. This rating indicates resistance to water splashes and moisture.

5. Power Supply:

Determine the power requirements for your strip lights and ensure you have a compatible power supply. Higher-wattage lights require a more powerful power supply. Consider using a dimmer switch to control the brightness.

6. Installation Method:

Strip lights can be installed using adhesive tape, mounting clips, or channels. Adhesive tape is convenient but may not be suitable for all surfaces. Mounting clips provide a more secure hold, while channels conceal the wires and enhance their durability.

7. Accessories:

Complement your strip lights with accessories like motion sensors, dimmers, and remote controls. Motion sensors automatically turn on the lights when movement is detected, while dimmers allow you to adjust the brightness. Remote controls provide convenient control from a distance.

8. Safety:

Follow proper electrical guidelines when installing strip lights. Hire a qualified electrician if necessary. Ensure the lights are compatible with the voltage of your electrical system and that they are not overloaded.

9. Placement:

Position the strip lights strategically to achieve optimal illumination. Install them under the cabinets facing the countertop or under the upper cabinets to provide ambient lighting. Consider adding strip lights to drawers or shelves for additional task lighting.

10. Maintenance:

Regularly clean the strip lights with a soft cloth to prevent dust buildup. Check the power supply and connections periodically to ensure proper functionality. If any sections of the strip lights fail, consult the manufacturer's instructions for repair or replacement.