A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Under Cabinet Lighting in the UK
Under cabinet lighting has ended up being a popular choice for homeowners and renters wanting to improve both the performance and visual appeal of their kitchens and workspaces. This style of lighting supplies adequate illumination for counter tops while providing a modern touch to the overall design. With many alternatives available in the UK market, picking the right under cabinet lighting can be a complicated task. This article aims to help you browse the myriad of options by laying out crucial considerations, different kinds of lighting, and ideas for setup.
Why Choose Under Cabinet Lighting?
Under cabinet lighting not just serves a useful purpose however likewise substantially improves the atmosphere of a room. Here are some reasons why under cabinet lighting is worth considering:
- Improved Visibility: Eliminates shadows on work surfaces, making it easier to prepare meals or total jobs.
- Energy Efficiency: Many modern choices use LED innovation, which takes in less power and lasts longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Can transform the appearance of your kitchen or office, adding visual interest and depth.
- Versatility: Suitable for numerous settings, consisting of kitchen areas, office, and garages.
Types of Under Cabinet Lighting
When looking for under cabinet lighting in the UK, it's essential to know what types are offered. Each has its distinct features and advantages.
1. LED Strip Lights
- Description: Flexible strips with adhesive backing that can be cut to size.
- Pros: Easy to set up, energy-efficient, and readily available in different colors and brightness levels.
- Cons: May need a separate power supply or transformer.
2. Puck Lights
- Description: Small, round lights usually installed straight under cabinets.
- Pros: Provide focused lighting and are perfect for highlighting specific areas.
- Cons: Limited coverage area compared to strips or fluorescent lights.
3. Under Cabinet Light Bars
- Description: Slim, extended fixtures that emit light along a bar.
- Pros: Provide even lighting across a broad surface area; many are available with adjustable brightness.
- Cons: Bulkier than other types, possibly affecting the visual appeals of streamlined cabinets.
4. Fluorescent Tube Lights
- Description: Long, tube-shaped lights typically used in commercial settings.
- Pros: Offer bright, even illumination; ideal for larger work surfaces.
- Cons: Less energy-efficient than LED alternatives and may need more upkeep.
5. Hard-Wired Fixtures
- Description: Permanent lighting options set up straight into the electrical system.
- Pros: Provides a tidy look without any noticeable cables.
- Cons: More complex setup; frequently requires expert support.
Crucial Considerations Before Purchasing
Before making a final decision on under cabinet lighting, a number of elements need to be taken into account:
1. Brightness and Color Temperature
- Lux Levels: Determine the needed brightness for your jobs. Most under cabinet lighting choices range 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 on the desired mood.
2. Setup Method
- Do it yourself or Professional: Assess your comfort level with DIY projects. Some choices include plug-and-play functions, while others require wiring.
- Location and Space: Consider the size and design of the area under the cabinets for optimal installation and lighting effect.
3. Energy Efficiency and Lifespan
- Choose LED choices for longer life-span (typically up to 50,000 hours) and lower energy costs.
4. Control Options
- Try to find fixtures with dimmer switches or push-button controls that offer versatility in adjusting brightness levels.
Setup Tips
Installing under cabinet lighting can be simple, particularly if following these ideas:
- Plan the Layout: Determine where lights will be installed and ensure they fit well within the space.
- Procedure Twice: Measure the length of the cabinet to buy the right size of lights.
- Usage Adhesives or Clips: For strip lights, utilize the adhesive backing 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 settling their position to guarantee you are satisfied with the brightness and placement.
Expense Considerations
The expense of under cabinet lighting in the UK differs significantly based upon the type, quality, and brand. To provide you an idea, 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 |
FAQs about Under Cabinet Lighting
Q1: Can under cabinet lighting be connected to a switch?
Yes, lots of under cabinet lighting systems can be connected to a switch, permitting simple control of the lighting.
Q2: Is under cabinet lighting suitable for all cabinet types?
A lot of under cabinet lighting is versatile and can be installed in different cabinet designs, as long as there suffices area.
Q3: How long will LED under cabinet lights last?
Generally, quality LED under cabinet lights can last as much as 50,000 hours, considerably lowering the need for replacements.
Q4: Are there battery-operated alternatives available?
Yes, battery-operated under cabinet lights are readily available, making them best for tenants or those who wish to avoid electrical installations.
Q5: Do I require an expert to install under cabinet lights?
While numerous choices are user-friendly and enable DIY installation, hard-wired fixtures usually need expert assistance for safety and compliance.
Buying under cabinet lighting in the UK offers a chance to enhance not just the performance of your space however likewise its visual appeal. With a myriad of types offered, it is necessary to consider your particular needs, the space at hand, and setup preferences. Following My Web Page ensures you make an informed purchase that transforms your environment into a functional and elegant haven.
