Under Counter Lighting Brightens Kitchen Work Areas
Having adequate lighting for food preparation and cooking tasks is important in busy kitchens. Under counter lighting offers an effective way to illuminate kitchen countertops and work areas. Installing lights under cabinets and shelves provides focused task lighting exactly where needed most.
Under cabinet lighting comes in a variety of easy-to-install options, from plug-in LED strips to hardwired fluorescent fixtures. With the right placement and brightness, these inconspicuous lights can make a dramatic difference in kitchen visibility and ambiance. Read on to learn all about maximizing kitchen illumination with under counter lighting solutions.
Types of Under Counter Lights for Kitchens
There are several main options when it comes to under cabinet kitchen lighting:
LED Strip Lighting
LED strip lights are a popular choice for under counter installation. These energy-efficient lights come as adhesive strips that can be trimmed to fit specific areas. LED strip lights plug into standard outlets, making DIY installation simple. They provide good task lighting and are very affordable.
LED Puck Lights
For concentrated task lighting, LED puck lights fit compactly under cabinets and shelves. Puck lights aim light directly downward. They come in both hardwired and battery-powered options. Hardwired puck lights require professional installation but provide constant power. Battery-operated designs offer wireless convenience.
Fluorescent Lighting
Fluorescent under cabinet lighting requires hardwiring installation but provides bright, uniform lighting across wider areas. Fluorescent lights come as long tube bulbs or smaller strips to mount beneath cabinets. They tend to have a cooler light temperature suitable for kitchen tasks.
Xenon Lighting
Xenon lights offer focused task lighting perfect for illuminating specific work zones. Small xenon bulbs fit into rails or strips that mount under cabinets. Xenon lighting provides a bright, natural light color good for food prep. Installation requires electrical wiring.
Where to Install Under Counter Lighting
Proper placement is key for under cabinet lights to effectively brighten kitchen countertops. Popular installation spots include:
- Under upper wall cabinets - Illuminates general countertop working areas
- Inside lower cabinets - Brightens interiors and highlights dishware
- Under floating shelves - Focuses light right where needed
- Under glass cabinet doors - Highlights collectibles and decor
Concentrate lighting over food preparation zones, cooktops, and sinks. For ambient lighting, space LED strip lighting evenly under wall cabinets. Task lighting is best achieved with puck lights directed at specific work areas.
Choosing Under Cabinet Lighting
When selecting under cabinet lighting, consider factors like:
Light Color
Light color impacts the ambiance and usefulness of under cabinet lights. Cool white lighting provides crisp task illumination. Warm white lights add cozy atmosphere. Opt for natural daylight or tunable color LEDs for versatility.
Lumens/Brightness
Lumen output impacts lighting brightness. High lumens (1500-4000+) are best for task lighting over countertops. Lower lumens (400-800) work for accent and mood lighting. Dimmable lights allow adjusting brightness as needed.
Power Source
Plug-in strip lights are the most convenient option for DIY installation. Hardwired puck lights, fluorescent tubes, and xenon fixtures require professional installation but provide constant power.
Lighting Controls
Under cabinet lights can connect to dimmer switches or motion sensors for flexible control. Dimmers allow adjusting task lighting brightness. Motion sensors automatically turn lights on and off when needed.
Design Considerations
Aesthetic factors also impact under cabinet lighting design:
- Task vs. Ambient Lighting - Task lighting illuminates countertop work zones. Ambient lighting provides general background brightness.
- Highlighting Decor - Accent lighting built into cabinets or shelves illuminates displayed items.
- Accent Lighting - LED strips can also accent architectural details or glass cabinet interiors.
Balance both form and function when planning under cabinet lighting layouts. Concentrate bright task lighting where needed, while also using accent LED strips to enhance kitchen design.
Installation Guide
Proper installation results in under cabinet lights that integrate seamlessly into kitchen design. Key factors for installation include:
- Wiring and Placement - Hardwired lights require expert installation and placement optimal for lighting tasks.
- Hardwired vs Plug-In - Hardwired lights involve electrical work but offer permanent power. Plug-in options skip wiring for quicker installation.
- DIY Tips - For plug-in lights, carefully measure and use painter's tape to position strips. Follow all manufacturer instructions.
- Mistakes to Avoid - Take care not to damage cabinets or wiring. Do not overload outlets when connecting multiple lights.
Hiring an electrician ensures proper connections and placement for hardwired under cabinet lights. Plug-in options can be DIYed following safety precautions.
Benefits of Under Counter Lighting
Installing under cabinet lighting delivers many advantages for kitchens:
- Increased Visibility - Focused task lighting aids food prep and cooking safely.
- Enhanced Aesthetics - Stylish lighting can modernize your kitchen's look.
- Added Safety - Reduce risk of cuts or burns by fully illuminating work zones.
- Flexible Lighting Zones - Mount lights exactly where extra brightness is needed.
- Energy Efficiency - LED under cabinet lighting cuts energy costs.
With the right design, you can enjoy both form and function benefits from under counter lights. Position lights to eliminate shadows and hazards for safer cooking. Accent strip lighting adds a modern, stylish element to kitchen design.
Under counter lighting is an essential upgrade for modern kitchens. Mounting LED strip lights and puck lights beneath cabinets provides targeted illumination for countertops and work zones. Options like fluorescent and xenon fixtures also offer bright task lighting for food prep. Consider lighting color, lumen output, power source, and controls when selecting fixtures.
Hardwired lights require professional installation but offer permanent power. Plug-in strips and battery pucks allow for convenient DIY projects. Proper placement concentrates lighting over prep and cooking areas. Combining task lighting with accent LED strips enhances both form and function. Under cabinet lights increase kitchen visibility, safety, and style.