Under cabinet lighting is a beautiful lighting addition to any home and can be used for many practical as well as aesthetic purposes.

Where Should it go?

Most commonly found as task and accent lighting in the kitchen, under cabinet lighting adds gentle light to the countertops at night as well as provides quality lighting for preparing food, writing or reading.

Under cabinet lighting isn’t exclusive to the kitchen however. Other areas in the home ideal for this type of lighting include trophy cases, under shelf, art/sculpture, wall units, book cases, china cabinets and work spaces such as desks.

Plug in or Wire in?

Under cabinet lighting is available as line voltage (120 volt) and low voltage (12 volt) options.

Both types have their own strengths and advantages, so selecting one over the other is largely a matter of preference. There are, however, several things to keep in mind when determining which system is right for a room.

Line voltage under cabinet lighting operates at 120 volts, often come with a lower price tag than low voltage systems, and are easy to install and expand. Line voltage track does not require a transformer, and can generally hold more fixtures since it is not constrained by wattage limitations. Some line voltage systems are so simple to install that it's simply a matter of plugging them into a standard socket. Further, energy-saving compact fluorescent bulbs are only available with line voltage systems.

Low voltage systems may cost more at the outset, but they are a wise investment long term, as they use less electricity while providing the same amount of light output as their line voltage counterparts. Low voltage directional heads frequently come with 12 volt MR16 halogen lamps included, which are ideal for task lighting in kitchens, over workbenches and in studios. Low voltage systems require a transformer for operation.

Shapes, Sizes and Style, Oh My

Under cabinet lighting is available in a variety of sizes and shapes which ensures that you will be able to find the perfect solution to your lighting needs. Rectangular shaped lights will provide ample light for completing tasks while small round lights will provide a spotlight glow to feature countertops, back splashes and other pride points in the kitchen.

There are also energy saving style of under cabinet lighting available to shoppers including CFLs and LED .

Placement

Under cabinet lighting should be installed on the under edge of the cabinet that is furthest from the wall so that the light can travel out in a triangular shape and encompass more area than if it were installed at the back.