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DIY Kitchen Under-Cabinet Lighting

by Debbie Correale
Kitchen Under-Cabinet Lighting

I have encountered many clients who are frustrated by the lack of light in their kitchen. I have been in new construction where the lighting was non-existent or inadequate. If there is one place you need good task lighting, it is on your countertop. You can contact a lighting specialist or electrician and get an estimate on adding electrical outlets and hard-wired lighting options, or you can choose the less expensive do-it-yourself option. Learn from Lamps Plus about the different types of lighting you may need in your kitchen.

The different types of under-cabinet light to choose from are light bars, puck lights, tape, or rope lights. You can find these in different colors and varying price ranges, and what you choose will depend on your budget and end goal. Choose a long-lasting and energy-efficient LED option.

5 Tips to follow:

  1. Measure the space under your cabinet; you will want the light to be hidden under the cabinet.
  2. If this is a DIY project, you will want to look for lighting fixtures labeled “plug-in” and avoid anything that says “wired” or “direct wire.”
  3. Understand where the power source will be coming from for plug-in lights. It isn’t hard to drill holes in your cabinet to thread a linking or extension cord. Many light options are linkable; therefore, you can control a string of lights with one switch.
  4. Look for dimmable lights or that include a dimmer, so you have the option to create a warm ambience. If you have a home assistant (Google or Alexa), consider adding a smart plug to use the assistant with your new lights.
  5. Conceal cords using a cord channel and paint them a color to blend with the wall or tile color.

I found a YouTube video by LRN2DIY that offers tips on how you can install under-cabinet lights in your kitchen. Change the way you feel and work in your kitchen with this simple weekend project!

By Debbie Correale, Redesign Right, LLC. Stay connected on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Houzz, and Pinterest. Feature photo licensed from Shutterstock.

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