Top 3 LED Under Cabinet Lighting For Your Kitchen
If you want to make your kitchen look better and give it the perfect glow then you should definitely consider installing LED under cabinet lighting.
LED under cabinet lighting not only helps in giving better ambiance but can also help with lighting up the work space when preparing and cooking food. Under cabinet lighting is generally installed in kitchens. However, it is not just limited to kitchens. Many homes install under cabinet lighting systems to workshops, basements, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and almost in all places where there could be the need for extra lighting and illumination.
Let us have a look at the three popular types of LED under cabinet lighting for the information of our readers and other interested persons.
1. T4 & T5 Under Cabinet Lighting
These are basically bar lights that allow quite a bit of customization and hence they are considered to be versatile. They are also traditionally used and they come with linkable options. This helps in offering a uniform lighting that is layered across the entire space. They are perfectly suited for kitchens and various other rooms. In addition, they help in making these places bright, and performing various tasks becomes that much simpler and easier.
There are some unique features that set these types of under cabinet lights apart from other options. They can accommodate multiple fixtures and they are also available in various lengths. If you have cabinets that are long and of irregular length, these types of under cabinet lights come in handy. Further, they do not emit too much heat and therefore working under these lights is comfortable, especially during summer seasons.
Installation
These bar and strip lights can be procured as hardwired fittings or plug-in type of fitting. Further, it can easily be mounted with the help of screws or it can be fixed with the help of adhesive backing. It would be advisable to keep the fixture not very far away from the cabinets. Also, ensure that the light is properly aimed and faces down or towards the wall. This will help reduce glare quite a bit and having a look at things under the table will not be much of a problem.
Advantages
- Uniform and bright lighting as the length of the tube is long.
- Discreet lighting is possible.
- Fixtures are not only durable but also easy to clean.
- They come with high IP ratings and are perfect for locations where there is a risk of splashing such as stoves and areas in proximity to sink.
- Not very expensive.
- Emits low heat.
- Easy to connect and therefore can accommodate cabinetry that have long rows.
Disadvantages
- There could be other low profile choices.
- The color and light quality emitted by fluorescent lighting systems may not suit everyone.
2. Surface Mounted Under Cabinet Lighting
These types of lights are also referred to as “puck” lights. This is perhaps because they resemble hockey pucks. They are round in shape and are considered to be a safe and elegant option for LED under cabinet lighting. They are not very hard to install and uninstalling is also quite easy. In addition, they come in a number of colors and styles. Puck lights can add style and sophistication when it comes to illuminating any room.
Most of these lighting arrangements are done with the help of LEDs. They are colorful, cool, and at the same time bright.
Installation
Before installing you should measure and mark the length and distance between each light so that the light is evenly distributed. Only after the distance has been determined, you should screw the lights to the underside of the kitchen wall cabinets. Typically, a spacing of around 8-12 inches is recommended between each light. This will prevent scalloping or pooling. But at the same time, the distances should not be too big.
The installation should be in line with the cabinets. This may require part way drilling. The mounting cap should be properly secured with the help of adhesive backing and screws. You must carefully follow the instructions given on the packaging for the best results. If you are not very sure about it and if there are hard wired installations, you must take the help of an electrician before going in for such installation.
Advantages
- Long-lasting and durable.
- Easy installation and uninstallation.
- Battery options are also available.
- Low cost and affordable.
- Comes in many styles.
- Versatile and therefore they can be installed inside cabinets and also under the shelves.
- Best option for focused and bright light.
Disadvantages
- Unless properly installed and properly spaced uniform lighting may not be possible.
- More number of fixtures required for uniform and correct lighting.
- Battery options, though an advantage may drain batteries rapidly and regular recharge may be required.
3. LED STRIP
LED strips are perhaps the most discreet lighting option available in the market today. They are also known as tape lights and are sleek in design and additionally they are capable of offering uniform lighting because of light placement and length. They are versatile and are available in a number of colors.
Installation
With LED strips, you can choose between hardwired and plug-in options. However, for cutting, hard wiring, and other related installation jobs, you may have to hire the services of a qualified electrician. You also must follow the protocols that are required for installing with the help of clips and backing tapes.
LED strips can also be installed in an aluminum profile which can be recessed or surface mounted. The aluminum profile gives a better finish but more work is required. If you choose not to use an aluminum profile with them, the LED strip can just be stuck to the bottom of the kitchen cabinets.
When installing an LED strip above the sink or any area where it could get wet then it is recommended that a waterproof LED strip is installed.
LED strip also comes in Warm White, Cool White & also RGB (Red, Green & Blue) and usually has a separate controller so you can choose which color or effect the LED strip gives off. Ansell Lighting has a great selection of LED Strip which is easy to install. You can also find out more about LED Under Cabinet Strip Lighting in this article.
Advantages
- Easy to conceal.
- Not very difficult to install because of adhesive tapes and clips.
- Quiet energy efficient.
- Zero heat emission
- Even and uniform lighting.
- Durable and long lasting.
Disadvantages
- Not as bright as other options.
- Concealing a driver may be difficult.
- Regular replacement of lighting strips is a problem.
Conclusion
It is clear from the above that LED under cabinet lights are becoming extremely popular because of some inherent and obvious advantages that they offer. They are long lasting, durable and therefore end-users feel that they get good value for money, when they choose the right under cabinet lighting arrangements. We are confident that we have been able to give the readers a reasonably good idea about the three major types of under cabinet lighting systems.
This article was written by Adam Loughrey.