How to Install Under Cabinet Lighting
- 2 Turn Off Power and Follow Safety Precautions Before you start this project, turn off all power to the cabinet location at your home's fuse or breaker box. ...
- 3 Prepare the Wall and Cabinet ...
- 4 Cut a Hole for the Switchbox ...
- 5 Attach the Lights ...
- 6 Wire the Lights ...
- 7 Wire the Switch ...
- 8 Run Cable Inside the Cabinet ...
- 9 Run Cable Under the Cabinet ...
How do you light an under Cabinet Cabinet?
Rules of Thumb for Undercabinet Lighting • Locate the fixtures at the front of the upper cabinet. • Use lensed fixtures (and avoid bare LED light tape) to reduce glare from polished countertops. • Use the longest fixture that fits to provide even light across the entire counter.
Can you dim under cabinet lights?
Basic fluorescent fixtures are much cheaper, but usually can’t be dimmed. The wiring method we show works for any 120-volt undercabinet light. Plan to install a continuous row of lights for the most evenly distributed light. Some types of undercabinet lights are provided with plug-in connectors to join fixtures end to end.
How do you drill a hole in a cabinet to install lights?
Drill 1-1/8 in. holes through the cabinet sides and run 1/2-in. flex for each light or group of lights, for the switch and for the power (Photo 4 and Figure A). Allow an extra 6 in. of flex where it enters the walls. Ream the cut end of the flex to remove burrs and install flex connectors on both ends.
How far apart should under cabinet lights be?
In general, you will likely want approximately 1-2 feet between puck lights, but if there is a shorter distance between the cabinets and kitchen counter, you may want to place them closer together, as the light will have less distance to "spread out." Types of Under Cabinet Lighting - Bar and Strip Lights.
How to install flex connectors in cabinets?
How to locate outlet in base cabinet?
How to connect a dimmer switch?
How to pull plastic cable through flex?
What color is aluminum wiring?
How to secure a cable to a fixture?
How to figure out the minimum box size?
See 4 more
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How do you install under cabinet light fixtures?
3:575:40How to Install Undercabinet Lighting and Power | Ask This Old HouseYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe connection to the fixture is very simple they give you these push in connectors. No wire nutsMoreThe connection to the fixture is very simple they give you these push in connectors. No wire nuts the mounting screws are captive. Makes it really easy to screw them in and they're the correct length.
How are under cabinet lights attached?
Remove the cover and the metal socket strip that holds the bulbs from the light fixture so you have room to work. Hold the fixture against the underside of the cabinet, then slide it forward until it's hidden behind the cabinet's front edge. Screw it to the cabinet with the screws provided.
Can I install under cabinet lighting myself?
Adding DIY kitchen under cabinet lighting (and above cabinet lighting) is an easy project that any DIYer can take on. It's actually easier than you might think, and can be accomplished in about 30 minutes.
How do you wire LED under cabinet lighting?
8:4214:34How to Install LED Under and Above Cabinet Lighting Hooked to a Wall ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI took the led cable inserted the wires into the corresponding terminals and screwed them down thenMoreI took the led cable inserted the wires into the corresponding terminals and screwed them down then mark the mounting holes of the driver. Pre-drilled those and i screwed the driver in place.
Do under cabinet LED lights need a transformer?
Since they work off the standard voltage supply in your home, you don't need to wire your lights to a transformer in order to operate them correctly. You can simply connect them to power. Additionally, you can use them with standard line voltage dimmers instead of the ones made specifically for low voltage lights.
How do you hide wires under cabinet lighting?
One of the simplest solutions to unsightly under-cabinet wires is using a cable protector. You can secure the wiring into one bundle with tie wraps and adhere it to the cabinet's underside with staples. The wiring length itself should extend directly from the light to the wall.
What is the easiest under-cabinet lighting?
What is the easiest under cabinet lighting to install? The easiest to install under cabinet lights are LED strip or rope lights. These are usually stick-on and do not require any drilling or hammering.
How much does it cost to have under-cabinet lighting installed?
If you want to add some radiance to your kitchen by installing under-cabinet lighting, you can expect the project to cost between $230 and $300 per light. Factors like the total length of your cabinets, how many fixtures, and desired brightness will influence the project cost.
What kind of wire do you use for under-cabinet lighting?
Although wire size ultimately depends on your light-fixture manufacturer's specifications, 12-gauge wire is standard for most incandescent and fluorescent under-cabinet fixtures. A basic installation requires a 12-2 NM cable.
How do you hide the power cord for LED strip lights?
0:025:14Concealing and Managing your LED lighting wires - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou use three-quarter inch or larger double-sided foam tape you're going to need to trim it off ifMoreYou use three-quarter inch or larger double-sided foam tape you're going to need to trim it off if you use a half-inch. It should fit right on there. And you won't need to do any trimming.
Where do you mount LED under cabinet lights?
If you want to install under cabinet lighting as task lighting, you should place the strip lights closer to the middle front edge of the cabinets, so the countertop will be exposed to as much light as possible. For ambient or accent lighting, you may want to place them closer to the back edge.
Are LED strip lights good for under kitchen cabinets?
LED strip lights are a popular choice for kitchen cabinets, as they provide light directly over the space you're working in. Before you install your under-cabinet lighting, think about the type of countertop you have — the light will be shining directly onto it, after all.
How do you remove the under cabinet fluorescent light fixture?
0:001:12How to change a Fluorescent Tube Bulb in a Kitchen Under Cabinet LightYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipNo so what you've got to do is you've got to get each end of it. And rotate it and then pull it outMoreNo so what you've got to do is you've got to get each end of it. And rotate it and then pull it out like so now we see you put it back in the same.
How do you change under cabinet light bulbs?
3:445:14How To Change Under Cabinet Light Bulbs - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipJust like that. Take this put it up over here. And you push it. Up. Just like that. And that's onMoreJust like that. Take this put it up over here. And you push it. Up. Just like that. And that's on let's try them and see. That's it so as you can see replacing the light bulbs is fairly.
Where do you mount LED under cabinet lights?
If you want to install under cabinet lighting as task lighting, you should place the strip lights closer to the middle front edge of the cabinets, so the countertop will be exposed to as much light as possible. For ambient or accent lighting, you may want to place them closer to the back edge.
How do you install LED strips under kitchen cabinets?
Part 3. How to Install LED Strip Lights for Kitchen CabinetsStep 1: Measure the length and size of the strip lights your kitchen needs and buy accordingly. ... Step 2: Clean cabinet surface. ... Step 3: Unwrap the package of the LED strip lights and stick the strip onto the cabinet. ... Step 4: Plug it in to launch the lights.
How to Add Kitchen Under Cabinet Lighting (in Just 30 Minutes!)
Supplies Needed For the Project: EShine Under Cabinet Lighting Kit; Power Drill; Drill Bit Set; Hammer; Step 1: Create A Clean Work Space. Clean out all of the kitchen cabinets and countertops to make room for the installation. This step might seem simple but it’s really important and will make the project go much smoother.
How to Install Under Cabinet Lighting | Simple Lighting Blog
Because of its subtlety, versatility and functionality, under cabinet lighting has been on the rise in popularity for some time now. It is usually linked to modern and minimalistic style and can be found mostly in the kitchens.
How to install flex connectors in cabinets?
Drill 1-1/8 in. holes through the cabinet sides and run 1/2-in. flex for each light or group of lights, for the switch and for the power ( Photo 4 and Figure A ). Allow an extra 6 in. of flex where it enters the walls. Ream the cut end of the flex to remove burrs and install flex connectors on both ends.
How to locate outlet in base cabinet?
To locate the position of the outlet in the base cabinet, chuck an 8-in. length of coat hanger into your drill and drill a hole alongside the outlet and through the back of the cabinet. Then mark a 12-in. square and cut an access hole ( Photo 2) directly behind the electrical box. A sharp keyhole saw works well.
How to connect a dimmer switch?
Connect the dimmer or switch according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fold the wires into the box and fasten the dimmer and cover plate.
How to pull plastic cable through flex?
Push or use a fish tape to pull the plastic-sheathed cable through the flex ( Photos 7 and 8 ). Allow an extra 12 in. of cable at the junction box and several feet beyond where the cables should end. It’s better to waste a few feet of cable than to end up short.
What color is aluminum wiring?
CAUTION! If you have aluminum wiring, call in a licensed pro who is certified to work with it. This wiring is dull gray, not the dull orange that’s characteristic of copper.
How to secure a cable to a fixture?
Secure the cable to the fixture with a cable clamp. Connect the wires according to the manufacturer's instructions.
How to figure out the minimum box size?
To figure the minimum box size required by the National Electrical Code, add: 1 for each hot and neutral wire entering the box, 1 for all the ground wires combined, 1 for all the clamps combined, and 2 for each device (switch or receptacle, but usually not light fixtures) installed in the box. Multiply this figure by 2 for 14-gauge wire and 2.25 for 12-gauge wire to get the minimum box volume in cubic inches. Plastic boxes have the volume stamped inside.
The following are ways you can effectively install under cabinet lighting
While planning the installation of under cabinet lighting, there is a need to pick from the various types of light on the market. Options to choose from include LED, incandescent, Xenon, fluorescent, and halogen lights.
Go for an under cabinet lighting kit of your choice
While planning the installation of under cabinet lighting, there is a need to pick from the various types of light on the market. Options to choose from include LED, incandescent, Xenon, fluorescent, and halogen lights.
What kind of light do you use for under cabinet lights?
Puck lights have traditionally been popular options for under cabinet lighting. They are short, cylindrical lights (shaped like a hockey puck) with a diameter of 2-3 inches. Typically they use halogen or xenon bulbs, which provide about 20W worth of light.
What is under cabinet lighting?
As its name suggests, under cabinet lighting refers to lights that are installed under a cabinet, resulting in illumination of the area immediately below a row or section of cabinets. It is most commonly used in kitchen areas, where additional lighting is useful for food preparation.
What is the CRI spec on LED strips?
While looking at LED strip specifications, you may have come across the metric called CRI. Unlike color temperature, CRI is related to color... Read More
What is a fluorescent bar light?
Fluorescent light bar lights typically include the ballast and other drive electronics embedded into the fixture, making the installation and wiring somewhat more straightforward when compared to puck lights . Most fluorescent fixtures for under cabinet use are of the T5 variant, which provide a smaller profile.
Why is under cabinet lighting important?
Third, under cabinet lighting is aesthetically pleasing. Not only will it improve the brightness and overall ambiance of your kitchen, it can increase the resale value of your home. One significant advantage here is that under cabinet lighting is almost always completely hidden due to the fact that it is mounted on the underside of cabinets. Additionally, since it is typically installed below head level, most occupants will not "look up" into the light and see wires or fixtures. All they see is a nice, bright light being cast downwards towards the kitchen counter.
What CRI do you need for LED lights?
For non-color critical tasks, we recommend purchasing LED under cabinet lights with a minimum of 90 CRI.
Can fluorescent lights be used under cabinet lights?
One significant downside of fluorescent strip lights for under cabinet use is their mercury content. In the unlikely but still probably event of a lamp breakage, mercury vapor from a fluorescent lamp will require extensive cleanup. In a kitchen environment, toxic chemicals like mercury are definitely a liability.
What to do if you have aluminum wiring in kitchen?
If you have aluminum wiring in the kitchen, call a licensed pro who is experienced and certified to work with this type of wiring. Electrical equipment can be dangerous – always prioritize safety.
Where to cut microwave light strip?
First, we measured the length of light we needed for under-cabinet lighting. We cut a strip for the cabinet on the left side of the microwave and a strip for the cabinet on the right side of the microwave. Never make the mistake of following the instructions in the light for where to cut.
When should I turn on the lights in my kitchen?
It is best to keep the lights on in the kitchen, especially in the evening and at night when all the overhead lights are off. Learn how to install light under kitchen cabinets in this simple way by learning how to install it in your kitchen.
Does the esign light have an on/off switch?
Under the cabinet light, the eSign has an upgraded IR sensor that acts as an on/off switch, as well as a dimmer. Just move your hand directly under the sensor for touch less control.
How to install flex connectors in cabinets?
Drill 1-1/8 in. holes through the cabinet sides and run 1/2-in. flex for each light or group of lights, for the switch and for the power ( Photo 4 and Figure A ). Allow an extra 6 in. of flex where it enters the walls. Ream the cut end of the flex to remove burrs and install flex connectors on both ends.
How to locate outlet in base cabinet?
To locate the position of the outlet in the base cabinet, chuck an 8-in. length of coat hanger into your drill and drill a hole alongside the outlet and through the back of the cabinet. Then mark a 12-in. square and cut an access hole ( Photo 2) directly behind the electrical box. A sharp keyhole saw works well.
How to connect a dimmer switch?
Connect the dimmer or switch according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fold the wires into the box and fasten the dimmer and cover plate.
How to pull plastic cable through flex?
Push or use a fish tape to pull the plastic-sheathed cable through the flex ( Photos 7 and 8 ). Allow an extra 12 in. of cable at the junction box and several feet beyond where the cables should end. It’s better to waste a few feet of cable than to end up short.
What color is aluminum wiring?
CAUTION! If you have aluminum wiring, call in a licensed pro who is certified to work with it. This wiring is dull gray, not the dull orange that’s characteristic of copper.
How to secure a cable to a fixture?
Secure the cable to the fixture with a cable clamp. Connect the wires according to the manufacturer's instructions.
How to figure out the minimum box size?
To figure the minimum box size required by the National Electrical Code, add: 1 for each hot and neutral wire entering the box, 1 for all the ground wires combined, 1 for all the clamps combined, and 2 for each device (switch or receptacle, but usually not light fixtures) installed in the box. Multiply this figure by 2 for 14-gauge wire and 2.25 for 12-gauge wire to get the minimum box volume in cubic inches. Plastic boxes have the volume stamped inside.
Materials Necessary
- Spade bit 1-1/8″
- 0.5-inch metal flex cable 14/2 cable with a plastic sheath
- Spade bit, 1/2″ Cable clamps
- Renovation switch box with fish tape flex connectors and under-cabinet lights
Tools Necessary
- Portable drill
- Hacksaw
- Voltage tester without contact
- Jigsaw
How to Install Under Cabinet Lighting?
- 1. Trace outline of new electrical box
1. At the main electrical panel, turn off the power to the kitchen. Plug the radio into the countertop wall outlet you’ll be using for electricity, and make sure the radio is on silently to ensure the power is off. You could also use a lamp, but make sure it isn’t lit. 2. To remove the receptacle from the … - 2. Discard an outdated electrical box
Make sure the cable entering the electrical box is loose after widening the hole, then pull it out with a flat pry bar.
Various Light Bulbs
- Fluorescent, quartz-halogen, and xenon are the three main types of bulbs used under cabinet illumination. Fluorescents might hum, flicker, and emit a yellowish light, but they also burn more efficiently and consume less electricity. Use a cool-white bulb and a fluorescent fixture with a high-quality electronic ballast for quick starts and silent running. Regular line voltage is used to …
How to Choose The Right Under Cabinet Light Fixture
- Measure your cabinets’ entire width and the distance between the countertop and the bottom of the cabinet. Determine the depth of the recessed space beneath the cabinets as well. Under cabinet ligh...