How to Mount Under Cabinet Lighting
Choosing to install under-cabinet lighting to provide illumination where needed is an easy decision--which type of light fixture to install can depend upon two factors: how much under-cabinet space is available and how much you want to spend. Fluorescent strip fixtures are cheaper than halogen puck fixtures but may not be appropriate where space is an issue. Once you have chosen your lighting fixture you can follow these steps to mount your fixture and light up the counter space under your cabinets. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
-
Under-Cabinet Lighting
-
1
Consider where to place your lights. Fluorescent strips should be close to the front of the cabinet. The Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute found that a 12-inch light installed under a cabinet at a height of 12 inches will project light 24 inches in depth and overall 36 inches in length.
-
2
Pencil through the mounting holes to mark where you will drill.
-
-
3
Drill the holes. If your cabinets are not solid wood and are made of a thin material, you may need to use a washer to prevent the screws from scratching anything on the inside of the cabinet.
-
4
Attach the fixture. Once the fixture is attached, you can plug the light in and turn it on.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If the under cabinet lighting fixture is visible at eye level, consider attaching a valance to the cabinet to conceal the fixture.
Follow manufacturer installation guide. Read through the directions before attempting to install your under cabinet lighting.
Never plug an under cabinet fixture into an outlet where water is evident.