Under cabinet lighting has become more than just a stylish design element—it’s a functional upgrade that enhances visibility, ambiance, and safety throughout your home. Whether you’re prepping meals in the kitchen, reading in your home office, or adding accent lighting to your bedroom, choosing the right under cabinet lights can make a dramatic difference.
At Anywhere Electric, we help homeowners select and install under cabinet lighting that not only complements their space but also supports energy efficiency, safety, and long-lasting performance. Here’s what to consider when deciding which type of lighting is best for your needs.
Why Install Under Cabinet Lighting?
Before diving into fixture types, it helps to understand the benefits of under cabinet lighting:
- Improves task visibility in kitchens, workspaces, and bathrooms
- Enhances home safety by eliminating dark areas and shadows
- Adds visual depth and modern appeal to cabinets and backsplashes
- Increases energy efficiency by directing light only where it’s needed
Whether you’re remodeling or simply upgrading, the right under cabinet light can tie your space together while improving functionality.
Types of Under Cabinet Lighting Fixtures
1. Puck Lights
Named for their hockey puck shape, puck lights are small, round fixtures often installed in groups. These are ideal for targeted task lighting in kitchens, bathrooms, or display cabinets.
Pros:
Warmer light (especially with Xenon bulbs)
Great for accent or focused lighting
Available in various finishes
Cons:
Less efficient than LED options
May require more fixtures for even coverage
Best for: Kitchen prep zones, display shelves, reading nooks
2. Bar or Strip Lights
These longer, linear fixtures offer even light distribution across the entire length of a cabinet or counter. Bar lights are often fluorescent or LED, and strip lights (including rope-style lights) use flexible LED encasements that are easy to shape and install.
Pros:
Bright, continuous lighting
Energy-efficient options available (especially LED)
Ideal for larger cabinets or countertops
Cons:
Fluorescent versions may flicker or hum
LED strip lights can have a higher upfront cost
Best for: Kitchens, garages, workshops, under shelving
3. LED Rope or Tape Lighting
Encased in plastic tubing, LED strip lights (or tape lighting) are highly flexible and can be installed in tight spaces or customized shapes. They offer low-profile illumination that’s perfect for ambiance or highlighting décor.
Pros:
Highly energy-efficient and long-lasting
Color-changing and dimmable options available
Safe, cool operation
Cons:
May flicker without proper installation
More expensive than basic bulb fixtures
Best for: Mood lighting, bedrooms, media centers, bathrooms
Choosing the Right Bulb Type
Each fixture type can be paired with different bulb technologies, and understanding your options will help you select the best match for performance and cost.
LED: Most efficient, long-lasting, and cool to the touch. Ideal for homeowners prioritizing energy savings.
Fluorescent: Cost-effective and bright, but may emit a buzz or be limited in color options.
Halogen: Crisp and bright with dimmable capability, but less efficient and produces heat.
Xenon: Offers a warm, natural glow—excellent for accent lighting but less efficient than LEDs.
Tip: For a kitchen with high energy use, go LED. For a cozy reading nook, Xenon or halogen may offer a warmer aesthetic.
Key Considerations Before You Buy
Purpose: Are you lighting for task, ambiance, or both?
Brightness: Consider lumens and color temperature for your desired effect.
Energy Efficiency: LEDs are the most efficient choice with minimal heat output.
Installation: Some options require professional wiring, while others are plug-in or battery-powered.
Budget: Upfront cost may be higher for LEDs, but they offer long-term savings through lower electric energy consumption.
Call Anywhere Electric for Professional Under Cabinet Lighting Installation
The right under cabinet lighting not only improves your daily life—it adds value, safety, and beauty to your home. At Anywhere Electric, our licensed electricians specialize in designing and installing lighting systems that blend form and function.
Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, refreshing a home office, or adding electrical service for a new build, we’re here to help you light your space with precision, efficiency, and style.
Contact Anywhere Electric today to schedule your lighting consultation and let us bring your vision to life—brightly, safely, and beautifully.
FAQ: Choosing Under Cabinet Lighting
What type of under cabinet lighting is best for kitchens?
LED bar or strip lights are typically the best for kitchens due to their brightness, energy efficiency, and even light distribution across counters.
Can I install under cabinet lights myself?
While some plug-in or battery-operated options are DIY-friendly, hardwired installations should always be handled by a licensed electrician to meet electrical code and ensure safety.
Are LED lights worth the higher initial cost?
Yes. LEDs last significantly longer, consume less electricity, and produce less heat, making them the most cost-effective choice over time.
How bright should under cabinet lighting be?
For task lighting, aim for 250–500 lumens per foot. Color temperature between 2700K and 3000K provides a warm, welcoming glow for kitchens or living spaces.
Can under cabinet lights be dimmed?
Many LED and halogen lights are dimmable, but you’ll need a compatible switch or dimmer. Be sure to ask your electrician for dimmable setup options.