Under Kitchen Cabinet Lighting Options

Under Kitchen Cabinet Lighting Options: A Complete Guide

Under kitchen cabinet lighting is an essential aspect of any well-designed kitchen. It provides task lighting for food preparation, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, and can even highlight special features or artwork. With so many different options available, it can be difficult to know where to start when choosing the right lighting for your kitchen.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to under kitchen cabinet lighting options. We will cover the different types of lighting, mounting options, and considerations for choosing the right lighting for your kitchen.

Types of Under Cabinet Lighting

There are two main types of under cabinet lighting: linear lighting and puck lighting.

Linear lighting consists of a long, thin strip of light that is mounted under the cabinets. Linear lighting provides even illumination across the entire countertop and is a good choice for general task lighting.

Puck lighting consists of individual puck-shaped lights that are mounted under the cabinets. Puck lighting provides more concentrated lighting and can be used to highlight specific areas of the countertop or to create a decorative effect.

Mounting Options

Under cabinet lighting can be mounted in three different ways:

Surface mount: Surface mount lighting is mounted directly to the underside of the cabinets. This is the easiest installation method, but it can be less aesthetically pleasing than other methods.
Recessed mount: Recessed mount lighting is mounted into the underside of the cabinets. This provides a more streamlined look, but it requires more installation effort.
Undermount mount: Undermount mount lighting is mounted to the top of the cabinets, facing down. This provides the most even illumination, but it requires the most installation effort.

Considerations for Choosing Under Kitchen Cabinet Lighting

When choosing under kitchen cabinet lighting, there are a few factors to consider:

Task lighting: The primary purpose of under cabinet lighting is to provide task lighting for food preparation. Make sure to choose lighting that is bright enough to see what you are doing, but not so bright that it is glaring.
Atmosphere: Under cabinet lighting can also be used to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your kitchen. Choose lighting that emits a warm, diffused light.
Decorative effect: Under cabinet lighting can also be used to create a decorative effect in your kitchen. Choose lighting that complements the style of your kitchen and highlights special features or artwork.
Installation: Consider the ease of installation when choosing under cabinet lighting. Surface mount lighting is the easiest to install, while undermount lighting is the most difficult.
Cost: Under cabinet lighting can range in price from a few dollars to over a hundred dollars per fixture. Set a budget before you start shopping so that you can narrow down your options.

By following these tips, you can choose the perfect under kitchen cabinet lighting for your needs.