A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Under Cabinet Lighting in the UK
Under cabinet lighting has become a popular choice for house owners and renters aiming to boost both the performance and aesthetic appeal of their cooking areas and work areas. This design of lighting provides sufficient lighting for counter tops while providing a modern touch to the total style. With various alternatives offered in the UK market, picking the right under cabinet lighting can be a difficult task. This post intends to assist you navigate the myriad of choices by laying out essential considerations, various types of lighting, and pointers for installation.
Why Choose Under Cabinet Lighting?
Under cabinet lighting not just serves a practical function however also significantly enhances the ambiance of a room. Here are some reasons under cabinet lighting deserves considering:
- Improved Visibility: Eliminates shadows on work surfaces, making it simpler to prepare meals or complete jobs.
- Energy Efficiency: Many modern choices utilize LED technology, which consumes less power and lasts longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Visual Appeal: Can transform the appearance of your kitchen or workspace, including visual interest and depth.
- Flexibility: Suitable for various settings, including cooking areas, office, and garages.
Kinds of Under Cabinet Lighting
When searching for under cabinet lighting in the UK, it's important to understand what types are readily available. Each has its special features and advantages.
1. LED Strip Lights
- Description: Flexible strips with adhesive backing that can be cut to size.
- Pros: Easy to install, energy-efficient, and readily available in various colors and brightness levels.
- Cons: May need a separate power supply or transformer.
2. Puck Lights
- Description: Small, round lights normally installed straight 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, elongated fixtures that discharge light along a bar.
- Pros: Provide even lighting throughout a large surface area; numerous are offered with adjustable brightness.
- Cons: Bulkier than other types, potentially affecting the aesthetic appeals of sleek cabinetry.
4. Fluorescent Tube Lights
- Description: Long, tube-shaped lights commonly utilized in industrial settings.
- Pros: Offer bright, even illumination; suitable for bigger work surface areas.
- Cons: Less energy-efficient than LED alternatives and may require more maintenance.
5. Hard-Wired Fixtures
- Description: Permanent lighting services installed directly into the electrical system.
- Pros: Provides a clean appearance without any visible cables.
- Cons: More complicated installation; typically needs professional help.
Crucial Considerations Before Purchasing
Before making a decision on under cabinet lighting, numerous aspects need to be considered:
1. Brightness and Color Temperature
- Lux Levels: Determine the needed brightness for your tasks. The majority of under cabinet lighting options 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 wanted state of mind.
2. Setup Method
- Do it yourself or Professional: Assess your comfort level with DIY projects. Some choices come with plug-and-play functions, while others require circuitry.
- Location and Space: Consider the size and design of the location under the cabinets for optimum setup and lighting impact.
3. Energy Efficiency and Lifespan
- Select LED options for longer life-span (typically approximately 50,000 hours) and lower energy expenses.
4. Control Options
- Try to find fixtures with dimmer switches or remote controls that offer versatility in adjusting brightness levels.
Installation Tips
Setting up under cabinet lighting can be straightforward, particularly if following these pointers:
- Plan the Layout: Determine where lights will be installed and ensure they fit well within the space.
- Step Twice: Measure the length of the cabinet to buy the right size of lights.
- Use Adhesives or Clips: For strip lights, use the adhesive backing or clips for protected installation.
- Follow Electrical Safety Codes: Ensure compliance with local electrical codes when installing hard-wired fixtures.
- Test Before Securing: Always test lights before finalizing their position to guarantee you are pleased with the brightness and placement.
Cost Considerations
The expense of under cabinet lighting in the UK varies considerably based on the type, quality, and brand. To provide you an idea, here's a basic pricing table:
| Type | Expense 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 linked to a switch?
Yes, many under cabinet lighting systems can be connected to a switch, permitting for simple control of the lighting.
Q2: Is under cabinet lighting ideal for all cabinet types?
A lot of under cabinet lighting is flexible and can be installed in different cabinet styles, as long as there is adequate space.
Q3: How long will LED under cabinet lights last?
Usually, quality LED under cabinet lights can last as much as 50,000 hours, significantly decreasing the requirement for replacements.
Q4: Are there battery-operated alternatives offered?
Yes, battery-operated under cabinet lights are available, making them perfect for renters or those who wish to prevent electrical setups.
Q5: Do I need a professional to install under cabinet lights?
While lots of choices are easy to use and permit for DIY installation, hard-wired fixtures generally require expert support for safety and compliance.
Purchasing under cabinet lighting in the UK provides a chance to enhance not only the functionality of your area however likewise its visual appeal. With Contemporary Lighting UK of types offered, it is important to consider your specific requirements, the area at hand, and installation preferences. Following this detailed guide ensures you make a notified purchase that transforms your environment into a practical and elegant sanctuary.
