Under cabinet lighting can transform your kitchen from ordinary to extraordinary. This often-overlooked feature adds both functionality and ambiance to your workspace.
At PacLights, we’ve seen how the right under cabinet lighting can make a dramatic difference in kitchens of all sizes. In this post, we’ll answer common questions about types, installation, and selection to help you make the best choice for your home.
What Are the Main Types of Under Cabinet Lighting?
Under cabinet lighting transforms kitchens in various ways. Let’s explore the four main types you’ll encounter and how they can change your kitchen’s look and functionality.
LED Strip Lights: Versatile and Energy-Efficient
LED strip lights are thin, flexible bands of LEDs that you can cut to size. Their versatility allows for installation in tight spaces or around corners. These lights consume minimal energy (typically about 2.5 watts per foot). A 10-foot installation uses only 25 watts of power.
Puck Lights: Focused Illumination
Puck lights are small, circular fixtures that provide concentrated light. They excel at highlighting specific areas or creating a spotlighting effect. Most puck lights use 2-3 watts per unit. An installation of five puck lights under your cabinets uses about 10-15 watts total.
Linear Light Bars: Even and Bright
Linear light bars offer a more traditional look, providing even illumination across your countertop. They shine in busy kitchen areas where task lighting is essential. A typical 24-inch linear light bar uses around 8-10 watts, making it an efficient choice for larger areas.
Rope Lights: Decorative and Flexible
Rope lights consist of small bulbs encased in a flexible tube. While not as bright as other options, they offer a soft, decorative glow. They use about 1.5 watts per foot, making them energy-efficient for ambient lighting.
When choosing between these types, consider your specific needs. For large workspaces, linear light bars or LED strips might be your best bet. For accent lighting or smaller spaces, puck lights or rope lights could be ideal.
The type of lighting you choose will significantly impact your kitchen’s functionality and atmosphere. Assess your space and lighting needs before making a decision. (This step will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure you get the perfect lighting for your kitchen.)
Now that we’ve covered the main types of under cabinet lighting, let’s move on to installation and placement tips to help you make the most of your chosen lighting solution.
How to Install Under Cabinet Lighting Like a Pro
Measure Twice, Install Once
Start by measuring the length of your cabinets and decide on light placement. Install lights about 4 inches from the front edge of the cabinet to prevent glare and ensure optimal task lighting. (For a 10-foot run of cabinets, you’ll typically need about 9 feet of lighting to account for gaps and corners.)
Tackle the Wiring Challenge
Wiring often presents the biggest challenge in installation. If you lack confidence in electrical work, hire a professional. For DIY enthusiasts, turn off the power at the breaker before starting. Use 14-gauge wire for most under cabinet lighting systems. Connect multiple fixtures by daisy-chaining them to simplify the wiring process.
Achieve Even Illumination
Space your lights evenly to avoid dark spots. For LED strips, this usually means one continuous run. For puck lights, place one light every 8 to 12 inches. Test the placement before final installation by holding the lights in place and turning them on. This step helps you identify and correct any shadowy areas.
Navigate Obstacles with Ease
Cabinets often have uneven bottoms or protruding edges that complicate installation. For uneven surfaces, use mounting clips or a thin piece of wood to create a level surface. When dealing with corners, bend LED strips gently, while puck lights might require careful placement to maintain even lighting.
Ensure Safety and Compliance
Follow local electrical codes when installing under cabinet lighting. (This step protects your home and ensures your installation meets safety standards.) If you’re unsure about any aspect of the installation process, consult a licensed electrician. They can provide expert guidance and ensure your new lighting system operates safely and efficiently.
Now that you understand the installation process, let’s explore how to choose the right under cabinet lighting for your specific needs and preferences.
How to Choose the Perfect Under Cabinet Lighting
Selecting the right under cabinet lighting will enhance your kitchen’s functionality and ambiance. This guide will help you make an informed decision that suits your specific needs.
Color Temperature: Set the Mood
Color temperature influences the atmosphere of your kitchen. Measured in Kelvin (K), it ranges from warm (2700K-3000K) to cool (5000K-6500K) tones. We recommend a color temperature between 3000K and 4000K for kitchens. This range balances warm and cool tones, enhancing both coziness and functionality.
The Lighting Research Center found that light in the 3000K-4000K range improved visual performance by up to 20% compared to warmer or cooler temperatures. This improvement benefits tasks like food preparation and recipe reading.
Brightness: Find the Sweet Spot
Brightness, measured in lumens, is another critical factor. Try to achieve about 200-300 lumens per square foot of counter space for under cabinet lighting. This level provides ample light for most kitchen tasks without causing glare or eye strain.
A typical 24-inch LED light bar produces around 1000-1200 lumens. For a 10-foot stretch of countertop, you’ll need approximately 5000-7500 lumens total. (It’s better to have slightly more light than you need, as you can always dim it down.)
Dimming: Flexibility at Your Fingertips
Dimming adds versatility to your lighting setup. Look for fixtures with built-in dimming capabilities or ensure they’re compatible with external dimmers. Modern LED dimmers can reduce light output to as low as 1% of full brightness, allowing for precise control.
The American Lighting Association found that 70% of homeowners consider dimming capabilities essential in their kitchen lighting. This feature allows you to adjust the lighting for different times of day or activities, from bright task lighting for food prep to soft ambient lighting for dinner parties.
Energy Efficiency: Save Power and Money
Energy efficiency should be a key consideration for any lighting solution. Look for fixtures with high lumens per watt ratios. Most quality LED under cabinet lights operate at 70-100 lumens per watt. This efficiency translates to significant energy savings over time.
Replacing five 60-watt incandescent under cabinet lights with LED equivalents can save you up to $60 per year on your energy bill. (This calculation assumes average U.S. electricity rates and 3 hours of daily use.)
When comparing options, look for ENERGY STAR certified products. These have been independently tested and verified to meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.
Final Thoughts
Under cabinet lighting transforms kitchens by enhancing functionality and ambiance. The right lighting improves visibility for food preparation, enhances overall aesthetics, and can increase your home’s value. Proper installation and careful selection of color temperature, brightness, and energy efficiency will maximize the impact of your lighting solution.
We at PacLights offer a wide range of under cabinet lighting solutions to suit various kitchen designs and lighting requirements. Our products combine cutting-edge technology with practical design to provide the best illumination for your space. When selecting and installing under cabinet lighting, assess your specific needs, measure your space accurately, and choose fixtures that complement your kitchen’s style and functionality.
With careful planning and quality products, you can achieve a beautifully lit kitchen that enhances both your cooking experience and your home’s ambiance. Try to achieve 200-300 lumens per square foot of counter space for optimal task lighting. (This level provides ample light for most kitchen tasks without causing glare or eye strain.)
Disclaimer: PacLights is not responsible for any actions taken based on the suggestions and information provided in this article, and readers should consult local building and electrical codes for proper guidance.