A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Under Cabinet Lighting in the UK
Under cabinet lighting has ended up being a popular option for property owners and occupants wanting to enhance both the functionality and visual appeal of their kitchen areas and work spaces. This design of lighting provides ample lighting for counter tops while offering a modern touch to the overall design. With many options offered in the UK market, selecting the right under cabinet lighting can be a difficult job. This post intends to assist you navigate the myriad of choices by outlining key considerations, different kinds of lighting, and ideas for installation.
Why Choose Under Cabinet Lighting?
Under cabinet lighting not only serves a useful purpose but likewise significantly enhances the atmosphere of a room. Here are some reasons that under cabinet lighting deserves considering:
- Improved Visibility: Eliminates shadows on work surface areas, making it simpler to prepare meals or total tasks.
- Energy Efficiency: Many modern choices utilize LED technology, which consumes less power and lasts longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Can transform the appearance of your kitchen or office, including visual interest and depth.
- Flexibility: Suitable for numerous settings, including kitchens, 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 available. Lighting And Lamps has its distinct functions 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 different colors and brightness levels.
- Cons: May need a separate power supply or transformer.
2. Puck Lights
- Description: Small, round lights typically mounted directly under cabinets.
- Pros: Provide focused lighting and are perfect for highlighting specific locations.
- Cons: Limited coverage area compared to strips or fluorescent lights.
3. Under Cabinet Light Bars
- Description: Slim, elongated fixtures that emit light along a bar.
- Pros: Provide even lighting throughout a wide surface area; numerous are available with adjustable brightness.
- Cons: Bulkier than other types, potentially affecting the aesthetic appeals of smooth kitchen cabinetry.
4. Fluorescent Tube Lights
- Description: Long, tube-shaped lights frequently used in industrial settings.
- Pros: Offer bright, even illumination; suitable for larger work surface areas.
- Cons: Less energy-efficient than LED options and might need more maintenance.
5. Hard-Wired Fixtures
- Description: Permanent lighting services set up directly into the electrical system.
- Pros: Provides a tidy look with no noticeable cables.
- Cons: More complex setup; often needs professional assistance.
Crucial Considerations Before Purchasing
Before making a final choice on under cabinet lighting, numerous aspects ought to be taken into consideration:
1. Brightness and Color Temperature
- Lux Levels: Determine the required brightness for your tasks. Most under cabinet lighting options range from 200 to 800 lumens.
- Color Temperature: Choose between warm white (2700K to 3000K), neutral white (3500K to 4100K), or cool white (5000K to 6500K) depending on the desired state of mind.
2. Setup Method
- DIY or Professional: Assess your convenience level with DIY projects. Some choices come with plug-and-play functions, while others need wiring.
- Place and Space: Consider the size and design of the area under the cabinets for ideal setup and lighting result.
3. Energy Efficiency and Lifespan
- Select LED options for longer lifespan (frequently approximately 50,000 hours) and lower energy costs.
4. Control Options
- Try to find fixtures with dimmer switches or remote controls that provide versatility in changing brightness levels.
Setup Tips
Installing under cabinet lighting can be straightforward, specifically if following these pointers:
- Plan the Layout: Determine where lights will be set up and ensure they fit well within the space.
- Procedure Twice: Measure the length of the cabinet to buy the ideal size of lights.
- Usage Adhesives or Clips: For strip lights, use the adhesive backing or clips for safe and secure setup.
- Follow Electrical Safety Codes: Ensure compliance with regional electrical codes when installing hard-wired fixtures.
- Test Before Securing: Always test lights before completing their position to ensure you are satisfied with the brightness and positioning.
Expense Considerations
The expense of under cabinet lighting in the UK varies considerably based upon the type, quality, and brand name. To offer you an idea, here's a general 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 |
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, permitting easy control of the lighting.
Q2: Is under cabinet lighting appropriate for all cabinet types?
Many under cabinet lighting is flexible and can be installed in various cabinet designs, as long as there suffices space.
Q3: How long will LED under cabinet lights last?
Usually, quality LED under cabinet lights can last approximately 50,000 hours, considerably decreasing the requirement for replacements.
Q4: Are there battery-operated options offered?
Yes, battery-operated under cabinet lights are readily available, making them best for tenants or those who want to avoid electrical installations.
Q5: Do I need an expert to set up under cabinet lights?
While numerous options are easy to use and enable for DIY setup, hard-wired fixtures typically need professional help for security and compliance.
Buying under cabinet lighting in the UK uses a chance to boost not just the performance of your space however likewise its aesthetic appeal. With a myriad of types available, it is vital to consider your particular needs, the space at hand, and setup preferences. Following this detailed guide ensures you make a notified purchase that changes your environment into a practical and trendy sanctuary.
