LED under cabinet lighting

G Dunlap

11 years ago

I need help choosing the best style of LED under cabinet lighting for our kitchen remodel. We purchased new cabinets (to ceiling) and plan on finishing off the base of the wall cabinets with a 1/4" skin and a slim 3/4" light rail. We have four separate banks of cabinets. The lighting will need to be hard wired and all four banks of cabinets will be controlled by one switch (which I would like to be dimmable). I thought my only choice were puck lights recessed into the 1/4" skin but I've been told I may have other options. I'm hoping someone will have some recommendations on various systems or manufacturers. We are also installing a Ceasarstone Quartz Frosty Carrina counter top so any advice on the type of LED light, warm vs cool, would be appreciated. Thank you.

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PRO

User

11 years ago

I have been buying and installing LED tape lighting for under cabinet lighting for the last couple of years. I don't have to install a light rail trim piece under the cabinets to hide the old halogen lights and it's a really easy install and costs less. I get mine from Inspired LED. You need a receptacle in one or more of the upper cabinets to plug in the transformer but other than that, it's simple and effective. I like a color temperature of 3000k, which is the same as a halogen light, a bright warm white light. Remember!!! The lights, strips, install at the front of the cabinet, and not the back wall!!!

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Comments (9)

PRO
User
11 years ago
http://www.kichler.com/products/product/design-pro-led-2700k-22-cabinet-light-120v-bron-12.aspx
Eliza Alkire
11 years ago
http://vaxcel.com/products/category/INT/sub-category/UC

Motion controlled operation, plug-in or hardwire options, adjustable lighting, safe exit mode gradually dims light, synchronous control.
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PRO
Gray & Walter, Ltd.
11 years ago
last modified: 11 years ago
Do not use LED lighting unless it is color corrected to warm white or incandescent in appearance.
User
11 years ago
I love my strip LED lights. Beautiful quality of light spread across the countertop, no shadows or dark spots.
G Dunlap
Original Author
11 years ago
Thank you to everyone for the advice and I'm sorry It took me so long to respond. I took a short vacation....;) I believe the LED tape light would work very well. The only question I have is this: I have 4 banks of cabinets, each with their own 110 wire. Since they each have their own line (although controlled by one switch), will I need a transformer for each section of cabinets? Will each set of cabinets need an outlet? The kitchen has been dismantled for about 2 months now so its looking rough but here's a basic picture of the various sections of cabinets. Thank you for your advice, I greatly appreciate it!!
PRO
User
11 years ago
If I understand correctly, you have line voltage to each section and it is switched in one location. If this is wired typically then yes, you would need to have 4 different transformers, one for each section, but you might want to consult your electrician. The transformers vary in wattage and are sized to the load. I'd recommend going to the Inspired LED website where you can get information on sizing and light quality, color, and intensity. Just google it. I use the ultra bright flex strip and it provides a great color and amount of light just where you need it.
G Dunlap
Original Author
11 years ago
Creative Construction, thank you for your input. I had a feeling that each bank of cabinets would need a transformer so I appreciate your confirmation. I'll check out the Inspired LED website for further info on the required transformers. Also, I did go out and take a look at the light color and quality and I agree with you that the 3000k is nice for the under cabinet lighting. I have made a note to install the tape at the front and not the back of the cabinet, which makes perfect sense once you think about it. Thank you again for your time!!
Matthew Rieger
10 years ago
One transformer can handle all your LED lights. You need one location for a transformer, and than you need to run the low voltage wiring to each bank of lights. The transformer needs to be hidden inside a cabinet or other hidden location. The transformer should be installed on a dimmer so you can control the intensity of the lights.