How to Wire Under Kitchen Cabinet Lighting

Getting Above the Cabinets

Under kitchen cabinet lighting remains popular, they provide extra lighting for when you are working and they work really well as ambient lights – they’re a win-win. So, here we offer some tips and advice on how to install them.

Safety First

As the majority of under kitchen cabinet lights are powered using a plug in adaptor, there is no risk from exposure to mains electricity, therefore anyone with a little DIY knowledge can install them. Lights that require hard wiring need to be installed by a qualified electrician.

What You’ll Need 

Having picked the lighting that best suits your kitchen space, you can begin to install them, but first it’s a good idea to gather the tools you’ll need to complete the job.

It’s also a good idea to clear the work area and to read any instructions that come with the lights.

Prepping the Job

First get the lights out of the box and spread them out on the kitchen worktop. The idea here is to check that the wires are long enough to reach where you want the lights to go – always allow a little extra wire length – a little extra is better than not enough. Also, make sure there’s an available plug socket close enough to plug in the lights.

Measuring and Marking

Once you are happy that the wires are long enough, you can set about marking where you want the lights to go. To do this measure and mark the designated spot, detach the mounting cap, hold it in place and mark where the screws will sit.

Fitting the Mounting Cap

Drill starter holes where the screws are to be placed, then use the screws to fasten the mounting cap to the cabinet. Then attach the lights to each of the mounting caps, usually, this is a simple twist and lock process.

Fitting the Power Transformer

Next, find a convenient spot for the power transformer and controller and screw them to the underside of the cabinets as well, then route the wires and plug in the lights. The trick here is to plan routes for the wires that will enable you to pin them out of sight and that allows access to the plug socket – you may have to drill some holes in the cabinets to achieve this.

Cable Clips and Ties 

Before clipping and tying the wires, plug the lights in to make sure they work. When you’re satisfied, use the cable clips to tac the wires into place and so that they are hidden.

With the wires all hidden away, you can now switch on and enjoy your newly fitted under kitchen cabinet lighting. 

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