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Good lighting is one of the most important aspects of a functional kitchen. It illuminates what you are whipping up for dinner, and it also reflects the unique style of your kitchen space. Many homeowners prioritize overhead lighting, but under-cabinet lighting is also essential.
Under-cabinet lighting provides an efficient way to disperse light at the exact points needed, unlike ceiling lights that spread light everywhere. Plus, its soft glow improves the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen and contributes to your home's resale value. That said, here are the features to consider when choosing under-cabinet lighting for your kitchen.
Two types of wiring are used when installing cabinet lighting: plug-in and hard wire. With hard wiring, the under cabinet lighting is connected to the major wiring in the house. Plug-in is the simpler option that draws power from a power outlet.
If you want an easy installation, go with plug-in lighting. Some types of cabinet lighting do not require any wiring as they are battery-powered. Therefore check the wiring requirements of the lighting before purchasing.
Heat output
You don't want to install under cabinet lights that produce too much heat that creates hazards where it is not needed. Think about their purpose before buying the lights or having them installed.
Ideally, led lights are better than halogen and xenon lights because they discharge next to zero heat.
Check the voltage
Low voltage lighting comes with various advantages.
The first one is that it makes it possible to use smaller light fixtures; therefore, you can install more lights in a tight space like a kitchen cabinet. They also produce less heat hence a more comfortable space.
Dimming capability
It is best to go for cabinet lights with a dimming capability because it gives you more control over the lighting and saves you more energy costs. You can always dim the lights whenever you don't need much light.
Another reason to consider the dimming capability is that everyone has different visual needs. For instance, someone sensitive to light will want low-intensity lighting and not the painful glare. Dimmers are also functional when you want to adjust the mood lighting in your kitchen.
The energy efficiency of your under cabinet lighting
Another thing you should think about is their energy efficiency. If you want the most energy-efficient option, LED lights are the way to go. You will find that some LED lights use as little as 5 watts while providing the much-needed illumination.
Plus, they produce little to no heat and are easy to dim; hence, they are energy efficient. Fluorescent lighting is also another option that is energy efficient and has no heat.
Ease of installation
Last but not least, choose lights that are easy to install. It is best to select those that require simple plug-in or battery-powered ones than those that require complicated wiring.
Final Thoughts
If you want to be able to see your work clearly in the kitchen, one of the best ways is through under cabinet lighting. Properly installed and maintained lights can make all the difference for working efficiently in a small space like a kitchen. There are many great options for under cabinet lighting, and the best choice will depend on your personal tastes as well as your kitchen design.
What features do you look for in your smart under cabinet lighting?
Krystle Cook – the creator of Home Jobs by MOM – put her psychology degree on a shelf and dived into a pile of diapers and dishes instead. She is a wife and mother to two rambunctious boys, sweating it out in her Texas hometown. She loves cooking, DIY home projects, and family fun activities.
I love under cabinet lighting, especially in the kitchen! It is such a pretty look, and it really helps improve the lighting. I will definitely be doing this when I own my own home.
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I love under cabinet lighting, especially in the kitchen! It is such a pretty look, and it really helps improve the lighting. I will definitely be doing this when I own my own home.
I agree – under cabinet lighting in the kitchen looks great, especially at night!