How do I install under cabinet lighting?
Have you ever wondered “How do I install under cabinet lighting?” It is much easier than you think. Just take a trip to a home improvement store and you’ll find a plethora of under cabinet lighting options. Under cabinet lights have come a long way from the hardwired custom units of a few years ago. Today you can find small compact xenon lights that simply snap into place and plug into a wall outlet.
The best thing about under cabinet lighting kits is that you can install kits to expand the number of lights on a circuit to fit any size cabinet. All you have to do is add more lights to the string. Since xenon lights are low voltage, you will run out of cabinet before reaching the electrical capacity of the wall socket.
Measure how many lights you need. You want to shoot about a 2 foot gap between the lights.
Next, measure the depth of the cabinets, as you’ll want to center the lights.
To prevent lights from drifting during installation, use a ruler and mark the center line of the cabinet with a pencil. At the same time, you can mark exactly where the lights will be placed.
Take a hammer and some nails. Be sure to use a nail that will not go through the cabinet. A few blows of the hammer is all it takes and your lighting bases will be on in no time.
Now it’s time to run the wire between the lights. Some of the easier kits will allow you to run the wire between each light in series. They have a small built-in blade that will cut the wire to complete the circuit.
After the last light, continue routing the cord back to the wall outlet. Use a staple gun to hold the wire to prevent it from falling off.
You want to staple the cord as far back toward the wall as possible so you have a nice clean line running to the outlet.
Now is the time to make the electrical plug. Connect the live, neutral and ground wires and then screw in the plug.
Now you can go back and put the light covers on all the lights.
Next, install the xenon bulbs. Be careful not to touch the bulbs with your bare hands. The oil from your skin can damage the bulbs. Use a paper towel instead when holding the bulb.
Now place the lens cap over the lights.
Staple any of the wires that are down, you’re looking for nice, clean lines that aren’t visible when looking directly into the cabinet.
Plug in the lights and flip the switch. I hope everything turns on! If not, check that each bulb is properly seated.
All that’s left is to clean up any construction debris and place your tools.
When asking “How do I install under cabinet lighting?” Just keep a few things in mind. The kits are easy to use. They come with great direction and once you’re done, you’ll have a great light set that will highlight any countertop.