How to plan and install under cabinet lighting

Under-cabinet lighting is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, providing functional illumination and aesthetic enhancement. Proper planning and installation are crucial to achieving the desired effect and ensuring the lighting integrates seamlessly with your kitchen design. Here, we will walk you through the integral steps for planning and installing under-cabinet lighting, helping you create a well-lit and stylish kitchen space.

Understanding the benefits of under-cabinet lighting

Under cabinet lighting offers a range of practical and aesthetic benefits that can enormously enhance your kitchen's functionality and appearance:

Improved Task Lighting: One of the main advantages of under cabinet lighting is the provision of focused illumination directly onto countertops. This makes it easier to perform tasks such as chopping vegetables, reading recipes, and cooking, reducing shadows and eye strain.
Enhanced Aesthetics: Under cabinet lighting adds a touch of sophistication to your kitchen. It highlights the backsplash and countertops, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This lighting can also accentuate the textures and colours of your kitchen materials, making the space more visually appealing.
Increased Home Value: A well-lit kitchen with modern features like under cabinet lighting can increase the overall value of your home. Potential buyers often appreciate these thoughtful upgrades that combine style with practicality.
Energy Efficiency: Modern under-cabinet lighting options, mainly LED lights, are highly energy-efficient. They consume less energy than established lighting sources, helping to reduce electricity bills.

Choosing the correct type of under-cabinet lighting

Selecting the appropriate type of under-cabinet lighting is crucial for achieving the desired effect and functionality in your kitchen. Here are some popular options:

LED Strips: LED strip lights are a prevalent alternative due to their flexibility and ease of installation. They provide even lighting and can be cut to fit any length, making them immaculate for custom applications. LED strips are available in various colour temperatures and brightness levels, allowing you to customise the lighting to suit your needs. They are also energy-efficient and have a long lifespan.
Puck Lights: Puck lights are tiny, round fixtures with concentrated light. They are great for highlighting specific areas or creating a dramatic effect. Puck lights can be surface-mounted or recessed and are available in plug-in and hardwired options. While they can create hotspots, strategically placing them can enhance the lighting design.
Linear Lights: Linear or bar lights provide continuous, even lighting and are typically mounted under the length of the cabinets. They are excellent for providing uniform illumination across the entire countertop. Linear lights are available in both fluorescent and LED options, with LEDs being the preferred choice for their energy efficiency and longevity.

Planning your under-cabinet lighting layout

Careful planning of your under-cabinet lighting layout ensures even illumination and a cohesive look. Consider the following factors:

Cabinet Size and Spacing: Measure the length of your cabinets to determine how many light fixtures you need. LED strips or linear lights are ideal for continuous lighting, while puck lights can be used for targeted lighting, such as highlighting specific areas.
Lighting Needs: Assess your lighting requirements based on your kitchen use. For task-oriented regions, ensure that the lighting is bright and focused. Consider softer, warmer lighting for areas where the ambience is more important.
Power Source and Wiring: Plan your under-cabinet lights' wiring route and power source. If you are uneasy with electrical work, consider hiring an experienced electrician to ensure safe and proper installation. Decide whether you prefer plug-in lights or hardwired fixtures. Hardwired options provide a cleaner look and eliminate visible cords.
Control Options: Think about how you want to control the lighting. Options include wall switches, dimmers, and remote controls. Dimmers are exceptionally useful as they allow you to modify the brightness according to your needs and preferences.

Selecting the appropriate lighting colour & brightness

Choosing the right colour temperature and brightness level for your under-cabinet lighting is essential to creating the desired ambience and functionality in your kitchen.

Colour Temperature: Colour temperature is calculated in Kelvin (K) and describes the colour of the light. The right colour temperature depends on the overall style and feel you want for your kitchen:

Warm White (2700K-3000K): This range produces a cosy, inviting light with a slight yellow hue, ideal for creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It works well in traditional or rustic kitchens.
Neutral White (3500K-4000K): This range offers a balanced light that's neither warm nor cool, making it versatile for various kitchen styles. It provides a natural look and enhances the colours of your backsplash and countertops.
Cool White (5000K-6500K): Cool white light is bright and crisp with a bluish tint, perfect for modern kitchens with sleek designs. It enhances visibility and is excellent for task lighting but can sometimes feel stark.

Brightness Level: Brightness is measured in lumens. The appropriate brightness level depends on the intended use of the lighting:

Task Lighting: For areas where you need focused, bright light for tasks such as cooking and food preparation, aim for a higher lumen output (200-500 lumens per foot).
Ambient Lighting: A lower lumen output (100-200 lumens per foot) is sufficient for general illumination and creating ambience.

Gathering the necessary tools and materials

Before starting the installation process, assemble all the necessary instruments and materials to ensure a smooth and efficient setup. Here's a list to help you prepare:

Tools

Measuring tape
Pencil and notepad
Drill and drill bits
Screwdriver
Wire stripper and cutter
Voltage tester
Level
Ladder or step stool
Safety glasses and gloves

Materials

Under cabinet lighting fixtures (LED strips, puck lights, or linear lights)
Screws and mounting brackets (often included with lighting fixtures)
Electrical wire and connectors
Cable clips or wire conduits
Wire nuts or connectors
Dimmer switch or remote control (if desired)
Power supply (plug-in adapter or hardwired connection kit)
Double-sided tape or adhesive (if using LED strips)

Preparing your cabinets for installation

Proper preparation of your cabinets is crucial for a successful and hassle-free installation of under-cabinet lighting. Follow these efforts to get your cabinets ready:

Clean the Surfaces: Thoroughly clean the underside of your cabinets to remove any dust, grease, or debris. A clean surface ensures that the lights adhere correctly and that the installation process is smooth.
Plan the Wiring Route: Determine the best route for the wiring from the power source to the lighting fixtures. Regard the location of electrical outlets and switches. Plan how you will hide the wires for a clean, professional look. Use cable clips or wire conduits to secure the wires along the back or underside of the cabinets.
Measure and Mark: Estimate the length of the cabinets to ensure your lighting fixtures fit perfectly. Use a pencil to mark the spots where the fixtures will be installed, ensuring even spacing for uniform illumination.
Drill Pilot Holes: If your lighting fixtures require screws or mounting brackets, drill pilot holes at the marked spots. This makes it easier to screw in the brackets and reduces the risk of damaging the cabinets.
Test the Power Source: Before installing, use a voltage tester to ensure the power source functions correctly. If you are hardwiring the lights, turn off the energy at the circuit breaker to guarantee safety during installation.

Note: Thoroughly preparing your cabinets and planning the installation can ensure a smooth and successful process, resulting in beautifully installed under-cabinet lighting that enhances your kitchen's functionality and aesthetics. The following sections will cover installing the lighting fixtures, testing and adjusting the lights, and troubleshooting common issues.

Installing the under-cabinet lighting

Installing under-cabinet lighting involves several key steps, including mounting the fixtures, wiring them correctly, and securing everything in place. Follow this step-by-step guide to guarantee a successful installation:

Mount the fixtures

Position the Fixtures: Place the lighting fixtures in the marked positions under the cabinets. Guarantee they are evenly spaced and aligned with the front edge of the cabinets to provide uniform lighting across the countertop.
Secure the Fixtures: Use screws or mounting brackets to secure the fixtures in place. For LED strips, use the provided adhesive backing or double-sided tape to attach them to the underside of the cabinets. Ensure the fixtures are firmly attached and do not move.

Wiring the fixtures

Route the Wires: Run the electrical wires from the power source to the lighting fixtures. Use cable clips or wire conduits to keep the wires neat and hidden along the back or underside of the cabinets.
Connect the Wires: If the lighting fixtures are plug-in, simply plug them into an electrical outlet. For hardwired installations, connect the wires from the fixtures to the power source using wire nuts or connectors. Match the wire colours (typically black to black, white to white, green or bare to ground) and ensure secure connections.
Install a Switch or Dimmer: If desired, install a wall switch or dimmer to control the lights. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for wiring the switch or dimmer into the circuit.

Secure and conceal the wires

Hide the Wires: Secure and conceal the wires along the cabinets with cable clips, wire conduits, or raceways. This keeps the installation looking tidy and protects the cables from damage.
Final Checks: Ensure all connections are tight and secure. Double-check that the fixtures are firmly mounted and the wires are neatly arranged.

Testing and adjusting your new lighting

Once the installation is complete, it's essential to test the lights to ensure they work correctly and make any required adjustments for optimal performance.

Restore power and test the lights

Turn On the Power: If you turn off the power at the circuit breaker for a hardwired installation, turn it back on. If the lights are plug-in, plug them into the outlet.
Switch On the Lights: Turn on the lights using the installed switch, dimmer, or remote control. Check that all fixtures light up and have no flickering or dim areas.

Check for proper functionality

Inspect the Lighting: Ensure the lighting is even and provides adequate illumination across the countertop. If you installed dimmable lights, test the dimmer to ensure it adjusts the brightness smoothly.
Look for shadows: Check for unwanted or dark spots on the countertop. Adjust the position of the fixtures if necessary to achieve even lighting.

Make adjustments

Reposition Fixtures if Needed: If you notice any uneven lighting or shadows, you may need to reposition the fixtures slightly. Ensure the lights are still securely mounted after any adjustments.
Secure Loose Wires: If wires are loose or not neatly arranged, secure them with additional cable clips or conduits.

Final inspection

Overall Appearance: Take a step back and inspect the overall appearance of the under-cabinet lighting. Ensure that the installation looks tidy and professional.
Functionality Check: Confirm that all lights are functioning as expected and that the control mechanisms (switch, dimmer, or remote) are working correctly.

Note: By carefully following these steps for installing and testing your under-cabinet lighting, you can ensure a successful installation that enhances your kitchen's functionality and aesthetics.

Proper installation and testing will provide beautifully lit countertops, making your kitchen tasks easier and more enjoyable. If you encounter any issues during the installation process, don't hesitate to seek experienced assistance to ensure everything is set up correctly.

How an expert can help

Hiring an expert for your under-cabinet lighting installation ensures a seamless and professional result. They have the skills and experience to handle complex wiring and mounting tasks. Additionally, an expert can provide valuable advice on the best lighting options and layouts to enhance your kitchen's functionality and aesthetic appeal.