A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Under Cabinet Lighting in the UK
Under cabinet lighting has ended up being a popular choice for homeowners and tenants seeking to enhance both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of their kitchen areas and workspaces. This style of lighting provides sufficient illumination for counter tops while offering a modern touch to the total style. With various options offered in the UK market, selecting the right under cabinet lighting can be a complicated job. This post intends to assist you browse the myriad of options by describing crucial considerations, different kinds of lighting, and pointers for installation.
Why Choose Under Cabinet Lighting?
Under cabinet lighting not just serves a useful purpose however likewise significantly improves the atmosphere of a room. Here are some reasons under cabinet lighting deserves considering:
- Improved Visibility: Eliminates shadows on work surface areas, making it simpler to prepare meals or total jobs.
- Energy Efficiency: Many modern choices use LED technology, which takes in less power and lasts longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Visual Appeal: Can transform the appearance of your kitchen or office, adding visual interest and depth.
- Adaptability: Suitable for various settings, including kitchen areas, home workplaces, and garages.
Kinds of Under Cabinet Lighting
When looking for under cabinet lighting in the UK, it's important to know what types are available. Each has its special features and benefits.
1. LED Strip Lights
- Description: Flexible strips with adhesive support that can be cut to size.
- Pros: Easy to set up, energy-efficient, and readily available in numerous colors and brightness levels.
- Cons: May need a different power supply or transformer.
2. Puck Lights
- Description: Small, round lights generally mounted directly under cabinets.
- Pros: Provide focused lighting and are best for highlighting specific areas.
- Cons: Limited protection area compared to strips or fluorescent lights.
3. Under Cabinet Light Bars
- Description: Slim, extended fixtures that release light along a bar.
- Pros: Provide even lighting throughout a wide surface area; many are available with adjustable brightness.
- Cons: Bulkier than other types, potentially affecting the visual appeals of sleek cabinets.
4. Fluorescent Tube Lights
- Description: Long, tube-shaped lights frequently used in industrial settings.
- Pros: Offer intense, even illumination; suitable for larger work surface areas.
- Cons: Less energy-efficient than LED options and might require more maintenance.
5. Hard-Wired Fixtures
- Description: Permanent lighting services installed straight into the electrical system.
- Pros: Provides a clean look with no noticeable cords.
- Cons: More intricate installation; frequently requires professional assistance.
Essential Considerations Before Purchasing
Before making a decision on under cabinet lighting, several factors must be taken into account:
1. Brightness and Color Temperature
- Lux Levels: Determine the needed brightness for your tasks. A lot of under cabinet lighting choices variety from 200 to 800 lumens.
- Color Temperature: Choose in between warm white (2700K to 3000K), neutral white (3500K to 4100K), or cool white (5000K to 6500K) depending upon the preferred mood.
2. Setup Method
- Do it yourself or Professional: Assess your comfort level with DIY projects. Some choices come with plug-and-play features, while others need wiring.
- Location and Space: Consider the size and layout of the area under the cabinets for ideal installation and lighting effect.
3. Energy Efficiency and Lifespan
- Choose LED choices for longer life-span (frequently as much as 50,000 hours) and lower energy expenses.
4. Control Options
- Look for fixtures with dimmer switches or remote controls that offer flexibility in adjusting brightness levels.
Setup Tips
Installing under cabinet lighting can be uncomplicated, particularly if following these ideas:
- Plan the Layout: Determine where lights will be installed and ensure they fit well within the area.
- Procedure Twice: Measure the length of the cabinet to buy the best size of lights.
- Usage Adhesives or Clips: For strip lights, utilize the adhesive support or clips for safe installation.
- Follow Electrical Safety Codes: Ensure compliance with regional electrical codes when installing hard-wired fixtures.
- Test Before Securing: Always test lights before finalizing their position to guarantee you are satisfied with the brightness and placement.
Cost Considerations
The cost of under cabinet lighting in the UK differs substantially based upon the type, quality, and brand. To provide you a concept, here's a general pricing table:
| Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| LED Strip Lights | ₤ 10 - ₤ 50 |
| Puck Lights | ₤ 15 - ₤ 40 (for a set) |
| Light Bars | ₤ 20 - ₤ 70 |
| Fluorescent Lights | ₤ 15 - ₤ 60 |
| Hard-Wired Fixtures | ₤ 30 - ₤ 150 |
Frequently asked questions about Under Cabinet Lighting
Q1: Can under cabinet lighting be linked to a switch?
Yes, lots of under cabinet lighting systems can be linked to a switch, enabling for easy control of the lighting.
Q2: Is under cabinet lighting suitable for all cabinet types?
A lot of under cabinet lighting is flexible and can be installed in different cabinet designs, as long as there suffices area.
Q3: How long will LED under cabinet lights last?
Typically, quality LED under cabinet lights can last approximately 50,000 hours, substantially lowering the need for replacements.
Q4: Are there battery-operated options offered?
Yes, battery-operated under cabinet lights are offered, making them best for renters or those who want to avoid electrical setups.
Q5: Do I require an expert to install under cabinet lights?
While many options are easy to use and permit DIY setup, hard-wired fixtures normally need expert support for safety and compliance.
Buying under cabinet lighting in the UK offers a chance to boost not just the performance of your space however also its visual appeal. With a myriad of types offered, it is vital to consider your specific requirements, the space at hand, and installation choices. Following Buy Led Lights UK ensures you make an informed purchase that changes your environment into a practical and elegant haven.
