Under cabinet lighting refers to fixtures installed beneath cabinets and shelves, specifically designed to provide essential task illumination for countertops, food preparation areas, and backsplashes. This type of lighting is an essential upgrade for any modern kitchen or workspace, dramatically improving the functionality and aesthetics of the area. Choosing the right under cabinet LED lighting transforms your space from dimly lit to brilliantly functional.
Why Choose Under Cabinet LED Lights?
Upgrading to under cabinet LED lighting offers a range of powerful benefits that go beyond simple task illumination.
- Energy Efficiency & Longevity: Under cabinet LED lights are incredibly energy-efficient and last tens of thousands of hours, providing a long-lasting and cost-effective solution for your under cupboard lighting.
- Low Heat Emission: LEDs produce very little heat, which is a major safety advantage in the kitchen.
- Versatile Customization: Modern under cabinet LED lighting offers options like tunable white light, smooth dimming, and full color-changing (RGB) capabilities.
- Space-Saving Design: Their slim profiles ensure the under cabinet lights remain hidden, maintaining a clean and uncluttered look on your backsplash and maximizing your under counter lighting appeal.
Types of Under Cabinet Lighting
Selecting the best under cabinet lighting depends on your project's needs, from installation method to light distribution.
- Light Bars: These are rigid, linear fixtures that provide continuous, uniform lighting, making them ideal for task lighting on long under counter lighting surfaces and large workspaces.
- Puck Lights: Small, circular fixtures that deliver concentrated, focused light. Puck lights are best for highlighting specific areas, display cases, or creating a spotlight effect.
- LED Strip Lights: Flexible strips that offer a continuous, seamless line of light. LED strip lights are excellent for cove lighting, outlining, and tight spaces requiring a customized fit.
Voltage Systems for Kitchen Under Cabinet Lighting
The voltage system you choose determines the complexity of the installation and the maximum run length:
- Low Voltage (12V/24V): Low voltage under cabinet lighting systems require a separate LED driver/transformer to convert household current down to a safe working voltage. This is ideal for slim fixtures, long runs (24V), and safe, easy-to-conceal wiring in custom kitchen under cabinet lighting installations.
- High Voltage (120V): 120V under cabinet lighting connects directly to standard household power, often via a plug or a direct wire connection. This simplifies the wiring by eliminating the external driver but may result in slightly larger fixtures.
Wiring Options for Kitchen Under Cabinet Lighting
The method of powering your kitchen under cabinet lighting is a key decision that impacts both aesthetics and installation.
- Hardwired: This is a permanent solution installed directly into your home's electrical wiring. While it requires an electrician, it is the best option for custom homes and renovations where a clean, cord-free look is desired.
- Plug-In: This is a convenient, non-permanent option that plugs into a standard outlet, making it perfect for DIY under cabinet lighting, renters, or quick, simple installations.
Find the Best Under Cabinet Lighting Solutions
Under cabinet lighting is a simple yet impactful upgrade that enhances the functionality, safety, and style of any space. With a wide range of options from seamless hardwired solutions to convenient plug-in designs, you can easily find the perfect under cabinet light to fit your needs. We are confident our selection at Bees Lighting offers some of the best under cabinet lighting options and kitchen lighting fixtures on the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of under cabinet lights?
What are the main types of under cabinet lights?
What light source is best for under cabinet lighting?
What light source is best for under cabinet lighting?
What's the difference between hardwired, plug-in, and battery-powered under cabinet lighting?
What's the difference between hardwired, plug-in, and battery-powered under cabinet lighting?
What color temperature should I choose for my kitchen?
What color temperature should I choose for my kitchen?
What is the benefit of low voltage under cabinet lighting?
What is the benefit of low voltage under cabinet lighting?

