Your Guide to Installing Hard-Wired LED Under Cabinet Lighting
Modern homes need energy-efficient lighting, as most homeowners prefer using decorative and accent lighting fixtures. Among many different solutions, LED Under Cabinet lighting fixtures are the most simple yet the effect choice when thinking of energizing indoor spaces.
Here we will discuss with you two types of hard-wired under cabinet lighting fixture installation. Read along. Following a few simple steps will allow you to install low voltage under cabinet lighting fixtures without any assistance!
The basics
LED Under Cabinet Lighting Fixtures are available in two design variations:
LED strip lights or LED tapes and LED puck lights.
LED strip lights
LED tape lights or strip lights feature the use of long, flexible strips that accommodate surface-mounted (SMD) LEDs. Choosing lights that do not come input wiring or connectors will mean that you’ll have to prepare the lights before installing.
Those who want a full-fledged DIY experience can try LED light strips that need some wiring. However, if you are someone who wants smooth and speedy LED under cabinet light installation, consider using LED light bars.
While LED strip lights may or may not come with peel-off adhesive, light bars come with 3M adhesive tape. The tape on the flip-side of the light bars and some LED light strips will eliminate the use of cable clips. (at least reduce their number) Hence, simplifying the LED attachment process under a cabinet or similar surface.
LED puck lights
A puck light looks much like a puck (The black disc that’s the main focus in a game of ice hockey game.) except that they illuminate, unlike pucks! These small lighting fixtures are available in oval and round shapes. Most of them will be recessed lighting fixtures that do not protrude from the surface of installation.
Which one should you choose?
The type of lighting that you should choose depends on the nature of its use. Puck lights are ideal for use as under cabinet lighting, decor lighting, indoor walkway lighting, and bathroom lighting.
These lights are best if you are looking for something that highlights decor pieces on a shelf. Also, if you are fond of reading and want to save energy, puck lights are an option. Think about it. A dimmable light right above your reading table, sounds lit, right! LED light tapes, on the other hand, are long strips that are perfect for use as accent lighting.
Installing an LED Strip Under canopy light
- Determine the length of the cabinet. It will give you the idea of the length of the LED strip you’ll need. In case you are planning to use bar lights, know that they are linkable.
- Shop for an LED light strip by your preference. These lights are available in a plethora of colors to choose from.
- Refer to the buyer’s manual and check the power supply that the light will need.
- Locate the power outlets.
- Check if the voltage is right for the light.
- Turn down the power supply. Complete the wiring process and connect all the lights that you need.
- Place the light strip on the surface you wish to install it and make sure it is right where you want it. If using LED bar lights or strips with 3M adhesive tape, peel the tape off and stick the light. To attach the lights without adhesive, you may use cable clips.
- Plugin the LED lights.
- Hide the wiring by sticking it to the cabinet.
Installing an LED Puck Light
- Visit lighting stores and find out the puck lights of your choice.
- Decide where you want to install the puck light.
- Take note of the power supply that the LED puck light needs.
- Locate a power supply, connect the wiring, and test the light.
- Trace the puck light’s shape on the surface for installation.
- Place the light and see if you are happy with the placement.
- Once happy with how the light looks, attach it to the surface using screws.
- Hide the wires. You can use cable clips or even staple the wire to the surface.
Simple Things Bring Great Joy!
LED lights are simple yet effective lighting fixtures that consume less energy. Yet, these lights do not let you compromise the beauty and appeal of modern spaces. Using under cabinet lighting fixtures like LED strip lights or LED puck lights is a cost-effective and energy-efficient. Finding these lights in your favorite colors is possible. Also, hard-wiring such lighting fixtures is a single-person task. So, when thinking of transforming your home or office space, do remember LED under cabinet light fixtures!
