Where to Mount Under Cabinet Lighting for the Best Results

Understanding Under Cabinet Lighting

Under cabinet lighting is an essential addition to any kitchen, offering a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. It’s more than just illumination; it’s a thoughtful design element that transforms your kitchen into a well-lit, inviting space.

Benefits of Under Cabinet Lighting, Where to mount under cabinet lighting

Under cabinet lighting provides numerous benefits, enhancing both the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen.

• Improved Task Lighting: Under cabinet lights illuminate your countertops, making it easier to prepare meals, chop vegetables, or work on projects. This focused illumination eliminates shadows, reducing eye strain and improving precision while cooking.
• Enhanced Aesthetics: Under cabinet lighting adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your kitchen. It highlights the beauty of your cabinets, countertops, and backsplash, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. The soft glow can also accentuate decorative elements, adding visual interest to your kitchen.
• Increased Safety: Adequate lighting in the kitchen is crucial for safety. Under cabinet lighting eliminates dark corners and shadows, reducing the risk of accidents while navigating the kitchen, especially at night.

Types of Under Cabinet Lighting

Various types of under cabinet lighting fixtures are available, each with its unique advantages and disadvantages.

• LED Strips: LED strips are thin, flexible lights that can be easily installed under cabinets. They offer bright, energy-efficient illumination and come in various colors and brightness levels. LED strips are a versatile option, allowing for customization and unique lighting effects.
• Puck Lights: Puck lights are small, round lights that provide focused illumination. They are typically installed using magnetic mounts or clips, making them easy to install and reposition. Puck lights are a good choice for smaller cabinets and areas that require localized lighting.
• Track Lighting: Track lighting offers a more sophisticated and customizable approach to under cabinet lighting. It consists of a track system with adjustable light fixtures that can be positioned to direct light where needed. Track lighting is ideal for larger cabinets and areas where multiple light sources are required.

Choosing the Right Under Cabinet Lighting

Selecting the right under cabinet lighting depends on several factors, including cabinet size, style, and desired ambiance.

• Cabinet Size: For small cabinets, puck lights or LED strips are suitable. For larger cabinets, track lighting or multiple LED strips may be necessary to provide adequate illumination.
• Cabinet Style: Consider the style of your cabinets when choosing lighting. Modern kitchens may benefit from sleek LED strips or track lighting, while traditional kitchens may prefer warm-toned puck lights.
• Desired Ambiance: If you desire a bright, functional kitchen, opt for LED strips or track lighting. For a more subtle and ambient glow, puck lights or dimmable LED strips are suitable.

Ideal Mounting Locations: Where To Mount Under Cabinet Lighting

The placement of under-cabinet lighting is crucial for achieving optimal illumination and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of your kitchen or workspace. The right mounting location ensures that the light is directed where it’s needed, providing ample visibility and functionality.

There are several common and effective mounting locations for under-cabinet lighting, each with its own advantages and considerations. These locations are based on factors such as visibility, accessibility, and wiring requirements.

Mounting Directly Under Cabinets

This is the most common and straightforward mounting method, providing a clean and unobtrusive appearance.

When mounting directly under cabinets, it is important to consider the following:

• Spacing: Ensure the lights are spaced evenly to provide consistent illumination across the entire countertop. A general guideline is to space the lights 12 to 18 inches apart, depending on the size of the cabinet and the desired brightness.
• Alignment: The lights should be aligned parallel to the edge of the countertop to ensure the light is directed downwards and does not create glare.
• Visibility: The lights should be mounted close enough to the countertop to provide adequate illumination but not so close that they obstruct visibility or create shadows.

Mounting on the Side of Cabinets

Side mounting is a practical option when there is limited space underneath the cabinets or when you want to create a more dramatic lighting effect.

Side mounting provides a unique perspective and can highlight the cabinet’s design. It can be particularly effective for accentuating corner cabinets or creating a layered lighting effect.

• Visibility: The lights should be positioned to provide adequate illumination of the countertop and avoid creating glare or shadows.
• Accessibility: Consider the ease of access for bulb replacement and maintenance.
• Aesthetics: The lights should complement the overall design of the kitchen or workspace.

Mounting on the Ceiling Above Cabinets

This method is often used for larger kitchens or workspaces where under-cabinet lighting alone may not be sufficient.

Ceiling-mounted under-cabinet lighting can provide a more diffused and widespread illumination, making it suitable for larger areas or tasks requiring more ambient light.

• Accessibility: Ensure the lights are accessible for bulb replacement and maintenance.
• Aesthetics: Consider the design and style of the lights to ensure they blend well with the overall kitchen or workspace aesthetics.

Installation and Wiring

Installing under cabinet lighting can be a rewarding DIY project, enhancing your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics. The process involves careful planning, precise measurements, and safe electrical connections.

Choosing the Right Wiring Method

The choice of wiring method depends on the type of under cabinet lighting fixtures you’ve selected and the existing electrical infrastructure in your kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of common wiring options:

• Hardwired Installation: This method involves directly connecting the lighting fixtures to your home’s electrical system, typically using a junction box. Hardwiring provides a permanent and reliable power source, ideal for high-wattage fixtures.
• Plug-in Installation: This method utilizes a standard electrical outlet for power, offering flexibility and ease of installation. It’s suitable for low-wattage fixtures and temporary setups.
• Battery-Powered Installation: This option eliminates the need for electrical wiring, making it perfect for areas lacking outlets or for temporary lighting. Battery-powered fixtures are generally low-wattage and have limited runtime.

Installing Under Cabinet Lighting

Once you’ve chosen the wiring method, follow these steps for a successful installation:

1. Plan the Layout: Determine the desired placement of your under cabinet lights, considering the size of your cabinets and the desired lighting effect.
2. Measure and Mark: Use a tape measure to mark the exact location of each fixture on the underside of your cabinets. Ensure the fixtures are evenly spaced and aligned.
3. Drill Pilot Holes: Drill pilot holes at the marked locations to guide the screws for mounting the fixtures. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw diameter.
4. Secure the Fixtures: Mount the fixtures using the provided screws or mounting clips, ensuring they are securely attached to the cabinets.
5. Connect the Wiring: Connect the wiring according to the chosen method. For hardwired installations, use a qualified electrician for safe and proper wiring.
6. Test the Lighting: Turn on the power supply and test the functionality of the lighting system. Ensure all fixtures are working properly and adjust the brightness or color temperature as needed.

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

Here are some common installation issues and their solutions:

• Flickering Lights: This could be due to a loose connection, faulty wiring, or a problem with the power supply. Check all connections and ensure the wiring is properly insulated.
• Dim or No Light: A blown bulb, a faulty switch, or a loose connection can cause dim or no light. Replace the bulb, inspect the switch, and check all connections.
• Uneven Brightness: This could be caused by uneven voltage distribution or faulty fixtures. Ensure all fixtures are connected to the same power source and check for any damaged or defective fixtures.

Safety Precautions

• Always disconnect power before working on electrical wiring.
• Use insulated tools and wear appropriate safety gear.
• Avoid overloading electrical circuits.
• Consult a qualified electrician for complex wiring projects or if you have any doubts about your electrical knowledge.

When deciding where to mount under cabinet lighting, consider the overall aesthetic and functionality of your kitchen. For example, if you have light maple cabinets with granite countertops , you might opt for a more subtle, recessed lighting approach to avoid disrupting the clean lines of the design.

Alternatively, if your kitchen is more contemporary, you could choose to install visible, sleek fixtures that add a modern touch.

When considering under cabinet lighting, placement is crucial. Mount the fixtures about 18 inches below the cabinets to create optimal task lighting for your countertops. If you’re looking for a complete kitchen makeover, consider Sears kitchen countertops and cabinets to complement your new lighting scheme.

Remember, consistent lighting levels across your kitchen create a welcoming and functional space.