How to Select Under Cabinet Lighting
Under cabinet lighting is the best way to illuminate hard to reach places in your kitchen or bathroom. It will help you light the space during repairs (instead of holding a flashlight) and it will also allow you to find items quickly and easily. Here are some steps on how to select under cabinet lighting. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Decide what lighting to use. There are three basic kinds of under cabinet lighting: strips which are long, rectangular light fixtures, pucks and lighting tape/cord which are lights embedded in tape or cord.
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Puck lights are easy to install and use and are the most neat and pleasing in look. However, they provide middling light and won't cover the length of one kitchen countertop.
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The long, rectangular fixtures are the most common, and these are what you'll choose if you want to add a UV light for the winter months. They are easy to install but most of them require a dedicated outlet.
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Rope or tape lighting is effective, but unattractive. Advantages include easy installation and an even, ambient light. However, rope or tape lighting should only be used up behind overhangs or in otherwise out-of-sight places.
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Decide what kind of bulb you'll use. Halogen or fluorescent lighting are the most popular. Some homeowners find it helpful in sun-starved winter months to have a UV light installed.
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Follow the manufacturer's guidelines in the owner's manual as to installation. Most simply stick on with some kind of adhesive. You may need to sink a screw or two, but nothing complicated.
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Tips & Warnings
Try and see examples of the different lighting at lighting or hardware stores before purchasing fixtures online.
Check consumer magazines for ratings on various lighting.
