How to Install Under-Cabinet Lighting

Measure the length of each cabinet section where you want lighting. Position lights toward the front edge of the cabinet (closest to the countertop edge) to minimize visible glare when standing at the counter. For even coverage, the light bar should span at least 2/3 the width of the cabinet. Mark the mounting positions with painter's tape.

Most LED under-cabinet light bars include mounting clips or brackets. Hold each bracket against the cabinet bottom, mark the screw holes, and drill pilot holes. Screw the brackets in place. If using adhesive-backed LED strips, clean the cabinet surface with rubbing alcohol first, then press the strip firmly into position. For puck lights, drill the screw holes and mount each puck.

For plug-in lights, run the power cord along the back of the cabinet, down the wall behind the backsplash, to the nearest outlet. Use adhesive-backed cable clips every 12 inches to secure the cord. A paintable cord cover (raceway) can hide the wire against the wall or cabinet back. Many plug-in LED kits can be daisy-chained, so you only need one outlet for multiple lights.

For a hardwired installation, turn off the breaker. Run 14/2 Romex from the switch location up through the wall, into the cabinet void above the uppers, and down to each light position. Connect the wires at the switch (black to switch terminal, white to neutral bundle, ground to ground). At each light fixture, connect black to black, white to white, and ground to ground using wire nuts. If using a transformer for low-voltage LED lights, mount it inside the cabinet and wire the line-voltage side to the house wiring.

A dimmer lets you set the mood from bright task lighting to soft ambiance. For plug-in lights, use an inline dimmer ($10-$15) on the power cord. For hardwired lights, install a wall dimmer switch rated for LED loads. Standard incandescent dimmers cause LED lights to flicker — buy a dimmer specifically marked "LED compatible." Follow the dimmer's wiring instructions for your specific setup.

Restore power and test all lights. Check for even illumination across the counter — if you see dark spots between fixtures, move the bars closer together. Verify the dimmer works smoothly through its full range. Check all wire connections one final time. If using adhesive-backed strips, press them firmly again after 10 minutes — the adhesive reaches full bond strength in 24 hours.