If you have ever walked into a kitchen with under cabinet lighting, you can attest to the fact that it adds a certain wow-factor that traditional lighting just doesn’t provide. The warm, gentle glow that emanates from underneath kitchen cabinets can instantly transform the way the space looks and feels. And while creating a stunning kitchen design is the primary attraction of under cabinet lighting, it offers many other benefits beyond aesthetic appeal.
In this blog, we’ll be discussing the benefits of installing under cabinet lighting and how it can transform your kitchen.
What is Under Cabinet Lighting?
Under cabinet lighting refers to the installation of lights beneath cabinetry. It is a type of functional task lighting that is strategically placed above work surfaces where you’re likely to prepare food or perform other everyday tasks, so that you can see everything clearly. The lights can be mounted on the bottom of the upper cabinets, specifically in the corners, to shine light across the kitchen counters. Another popular application for under cabinet lighting is installation underneath the bottom cabinets, which illuminates the space below so you can easily see walkways in the room.
Types of Under Cabinet Lighting
Under cabinet lighting comes in different types. One popular option is puck lights, which are small, round lights that can be installed individually or in a series. These lights offer a warm, focused glow that can highlight specific areas of your kitchen or workspace.
Another popular option is LED strips, which offer a more diffused and versatile source of light. These flexible LED strips can be cut to fit any space, and they offer a range of color options to suit your preferences. In addition to these styles, there are also linear and angled under cabinet lights, as well as tape lights and rope lights, each designed to offer a specific level of illumination and flexibility.
This task lighting is recessed, or surface mounted to the undersides of your kitchen cabinets using screws or adhesive tape. The lighting is connected to your home’s electrical system as a power source. The fixtures are hidden and can be controlled by a switch or remote.
The most popular under cabinet lights use LED bulbs. LED lighting is the most energy efficient option due to long lifespan and low energy consumption. Additionally, LED lights are available in a range of colors, from a warm, soft glow to cool, bright light allowing homeowners to choose based on their personal preference.
Benefits of Installing Under Cabinet Lighting
Now, let’s look at some of the advantages of installing under cabinet lighting in your kitchen:
Better Visibility
Under cabinet lighting offers direct illumination where it’s needed for everyday tasks. When cooking, chopping food items or reading recipes, you need to have adequate bright lighting to see what you’re doing. With under cabinet lights, you will avoid shadows and dark spots on your counters. You’ll be able to cook with ease and create a visually appealing presentation by having a clear and well-lit countertop.
Energy Efficiency
Most under cabinet lighting fixtures have energy efficient features that help homeowners save on their electricity bills. LED bulbs, for instance, use significantly less energy than their incandescent counterparts. Since cabinet lighting provides targeted task lighting, you don’t have to rely as much on other lights in the room that consume more energy. This means that you’ll only have to pay for what’s necessary, all while still having the benefits of proper lighting.
Create Ambiance
What’s more visually appealing than a beautifully illuminated kitchen? Under cabinet lighting can give your kitchen an inviting glow that creates the ideal backdrop for social gatherings for friends, family and entertainment. Installing dimmable under cabinet lighting gives you the option to control the brightness level and color temperature, and instantly change the mood of your entire space.
Enhance Your Aesthetics
Under cabinet lighting is no doubt an excellent way to enhance your kitchen’s aesthetics. Depending on the style of lighting fixture you choose, you can complement your kitchen design style. If you have a modern kitchen, sleek LED lights can create a minimalistic feel and make your kitchen appear more spacious. Alternatively, if you have traditional cabinetry, you can go for warm white under cabinet lights, adding cozy warmth to the atmosphere.
Add Value to Your Home
Under cabinet lighting is a smart investment in your home, which is one reason installation is such a popular lighting upgrade for a kitchen remodel. It’s a great way to add value to your property, especially if you have plans to sell it in the future. When prospective homebuyers walk into a kitchen with under cabinet lighting, they are instantly drawn to it. This can positively influence their decision to purchase your home.
Professional Installation for Under Cabinet Lighting
If you’re looking to improve the ambiance and functionality of your kitchen, consider installing under cabinet lighting. It’s a great way to add value to your home, save energy, and create a more visually appealing cooking experience. At Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric, we offer professional installation services for various types of under cabinet lighting fixtures. Contact us today to inquire about our lighting installation services and get started!