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Where do you place LED strip lights under cabinets?
If you want to install under cabinet lighting as task lighting, you should place the strip lights closer to the middle front edge of the cabinets, so the countertop will be exposed to as much light as possible. For ambient or accent lighting, you may want to place them closer to the back edge.
How do you layout under cabinet lighting?
Rules of Thumb for Undercabinet Lighting Locate the fixtures at the front of the upper cabinet. Use lensed fixtures (and avoid bare LED light tape) to reduce glare from polished countertops. Use the longest fixture that fits to provide even light across the entire counter. Match the color temperature of the downlights.
How many lumens do I need for under cabinet lighting?
The required Lumen per foot depends on the intended usage. A guideline below: Accent lighting – 150 to 250 Lumens/ ft. Under-Cabinet Lighting & Nearby Task Lighting (Lamps) – 175 to 550 Lumens/ ft.
Do under cabinet lights go in front or back?
When mounting any fixture under a cabinet, position it to the front. If there is a lens, face it toward the backsplash. The bottom-front rail of the cabinet should hide the fixture from your line of sight, whether you’re standing or seated. A plug-in fixture may be used for short runs of under-cabinet lighting.
How do you hide the wires under cabinet lighting?
One of the simplest solutions to unsightly under-cabinet wires is using a cable protector. You can secure the wiring into one bundle with tie wraps and adhere it to the cabinet’s underside with staples. The wiring length itself should extend directly from the light to the wall.
Do under cabinet LED lights need a transformer?
When installing low voltage under cabinet lights, you will have to take some special measures. You’ll need a transformer to convert your home’s voltage supply to a much Page 11 11 lower number, and if you plan to use any accessories, like dimmers, they’ll need to be compatible with your lighting system.
How do you hardwire led under cabinets?
Then, follow these steps for installation: Disconnect the power. Locate the correct breaker and turn off the power supply to the switch outlet where you’re going to connect the lights. Attach the lights. Cut the wall. Run the wire. Run the cord. Connect the lights. Wire the switch. Cover your work.
What is the best color for under cabinet lighting?
Best Color for Under Cabinet Lighting 2700K is considered the same color as the classic incandescent light bulb. 3000K is slightly bluer and is similar to halogen bulb light color, but still has a warm, inviting yellow color to it.
Where should puck lights be placed?
7 Creative Uses for Puck Lights Underneath Cabinets. The standard use for puck lights is underneath kitchen cabinets. Highlight Decor on a Shelf. Inside Kitchen Cabinets, Drawers, or the Pantry. Create a Reading Nook. Walkways and Outdoor Seating Areas. Hallways. In the Bathroom. In Your Office.
Is soft white or daylight better for kitchen?
Warm white (3,000 to 4,000 Kelvin) is more yellowish-white. These bulbs are best suited for kitchens and bathrooms. Daylight (5,000 to 6,500 Kelvin) has a more bluish tone. This light color will maximize contrast for colors, making it ideal for working, reading or applying makeup.
Can you leave LED light strips on all night?
Yes, LED lights are ideal for leaving on for long periods of time due to their low power usage and very low heat output. They are more suited to use as a night light/ background accent light in general. 23 of 25 found this helpful.
What is the best color temperature for kitchen lighting?
In the kitchen, the recommended brightness levels run about a powerful 4,000-8,000 lumens with a recommended LED color temperature of around 2,700-5,000 K. Your dining room, on the other hand, warmer temperatures will bring coziness to any dinner party.
Why can’t under cabinet lights be on a dimmer?
A 300 watt dimmer will be more than sufficient to power your under cabinet lights. Even if you have 12 fixtures at 10 watts each, that is only 120 total watts. This maximum watt capacity for a dimmer typically becomes an issue with recessed lighting where a large room may have a few dozen lights.
What kind of wire do you use for under cabinet lighting?
Although wire size ultimately depends on your light-fixture manufacturer’s specifications, 12-gauge wire is standard for most incandescent and fluorescent under-cabinet fixtures. A basic installation requires a 12-2 NM cable.
How long do LED cabinet lights Last?
LEDs are also popular for their long life. Properly designed LED fixtures can last longer than 10 years. Unlike incandescent and fluorescent lamps, LED lamps typically do not burn out.
Can you run Romex in cabinets?
The National Electrical Code requires that plastic-sheathed cable (commonly called Romex) be protected in areas where it’s subject to abuse. If you can run the plastic-sheathed cable high in the cabinets or behind drawers, you may not need conduit.
Should under cabinet lighting be warm or cool?
A cooler temperature is often the best choice for task lighting because it is brighter, making it easier to see what you’re doing. For kitchens, think 4200K and higher. If you are adding under cabinet lighting to the cabinets in your lavatory or bathroom, you will want a warmer and more flattering light.
How do you wire LED strips to mains?
To get your strip light working, connect the transformer / driver to the strip light ( extending the cable with 2 core flex if necessary). Then you connect your transformer / driver to the mains via a plug or direct to the mains and you’re away.
