How do you install under cabinet lights?

1. RUN CABLE. Before starting, be sure to turn off all power to the cabinet location at your home’s fuse/breaker box before working with electrical systems.
2. CUT A HOLE.
3. ATTACH THE LIGHTS.
4. WIRE THE LIGHTS.
5. WIRE THE SWITCH.
6. TIME SAVERS – CABLE INSIDE THE CABINET.
7. TIME SAVERS – CABLE UNDER THE CABINET.

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 under cabinet lights?

Then, follow these steps for installation:

1. 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.
2. Attach the lights.
3. Cut the wall.
4. Run the wire.
5. Run the cord.
6. Connect the lights.
7. Wire the switch.
8. Cover your work.

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.

What type of under cabinet lighting is best?

LED lighting is also the most energy efficient and long-lasting. Moreover, because it emits very little heat when on, it is perfect for use under kitchen cabinets, where food may be stored. Best of all, LED can produce a range of colors, from warm to cool.

How far apart should under cabinet puck lights be?

In general, one puck light is needed for every 8–12 in. of cabinet length. This spacing will provide the best uniformity and distribution of light and avoid any dark areas under the cabinets. Incandescent linear lighting comes in two forms: as a light strip or as a linear fixture or light bar.

How do you install hard wired under-cabinet lighting?

Can I use 18 gauge wire for LED lights?

Most people would likely recommend using a solid core 18-gauge wire for your LED lights. The cost difference between this wire size and a much smaller cable is negligible, and 18-gauge is about as big as you can go if you would like your wires to fit into most holders or terminals.

Do I really need under cabinet lighting?

Under cabinet lights are a key component of any kitchen design as they provide soft, ambient lighting as well as task lighting for cooking, food preparation, and reading recipes. Under cabinet lights should be installed so only the light is visible, and not the fixture itself, like the kitchen pictured to the right.

How many puck lights does a transformer have?

The puck lights each draw 3 watts, so simply divide the output wattage rating of the transformer by 3 to find the number of puck lights that transformer will power. For example, I purchased a 12 watt transformer for my application. That transformer would support 12 / 3 = 4 puck lights.

How do you install under cabinet lighting?

Cable Under the Cabinet: Attach the lights under the cabinets, string cable under the cabinet, and staple the cable in place using cable staples. Measure and cut carefully so the cable is flat along the length.

What are the different types of under cabinet lighting?

Types of Under Cabinet Lighting – Puck Lights. Puck lights have traditionally been popular options for under cabinet lighting. They are short, cylindrical lights (shaped like a hockey puck) with a diameter of 2-3 inches. Typically they use halogen or xenon bulbs, which provide about 20W worth of light.

How many Puck lights do I need to install under cabinets?

For 27-34 inches, use 4-5 puck lights. For 35-42 inches, use 5-7 puck lights. For 43-50 inches, use 6-8 puck lights. If you are installing linear (also known as strip) under cabinet lights… Try to “fill up” your cavity with the longest fixture that will fit.

What size under cabinet lights do I Need?

The goal with linear lights is to keep your countertop and backsplash uniformly lit, so you want to match that cavity measurement as closely as possible. Usually, under cabinet lights are sold in standard increments of length. For example, you might be able to choose between 8in, 16in, 24in, or 32in.