Installation Process for Direct Wired LED Under Cabinet Lighting: Led Under Cabinet Lighting Direct Wire 120v
Installing direct wired LED under cabinet lighting requires careful planning and adherence to electrical safety guidelines. This process involves determining the appropriate wiring length, choosing the correct wire gauge, and connecting the wiring to both the electrical outlet and the LED fixture.
Determining Wire Length and Gauge
The length of the wire needed for the installation depends on the distance between the electrical outlet and the LED fixture. To determine the appropriate length, measure the distance from the outlet to the location of the LED fixture.
- Add an additional 12-18 inches of wire for slack and ease of installation.
- Consider the location of the junction box, if applicable, and add the distance from the junction box to the LED fixture.
The wire gauge is crucial for ensuring safe and efficient operation of the LED lighting. A thicker gauge wire can handle more current, which is important for longer runs or higher wattage LED fixtures.
- For runs under 50 feet, 14-gauge wire is typically sufficient for standard under cabinet LED fixtures.
- For runs exceeding 50 feet, 12-gauge wire is recommended to ensure adequate current flow.
Types and Features of LED Under Cabinet Lighting
LED under cabinet lighting comes in various forms, each offering unique advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right type depends on your needs, budget, and desired aesthetic.
Types of LED Under Cabinet Lighting
- Strip Lights: Strip lights are flexible LED strips that can be cut to size and easily installed under cabinets. They are highly versatile and come in various lengths and brightness levels.
- Puck Lights: Puck lights are small, circular lights that are often used in groups to create a more focused and decorative effect. They are typically more expensive than strip lights but offer a more stylish appearance.
- Track Lighting: Track lighting is a system of adjustable spotlights that can be mounted on a track. They offer a lot of flexibility in terms of directing the light and are ideal for highlighting specific areas. However, track lighting is generally more expensive than strip lights or puck lights.
Color Temperature Options
LED under cabinet lighting offers a wide range of color temperature options, measured in Kelvin (K).
- Warm White (2700K-3000K): This color temperature is similar to incandescent light bulbs and provides a warm, inviting ambiance. It is ideal for creating a cozy atmosphere in kitchens and dining areas.
- Cool White (3500K-4000K): Cool white light is brighter and more bluish than warm white. It is often used in kitchens and bathrooms to provide a more functional and task-oriented lighting.
- Daylight (5000K-6500K): Daylight color temperature mimics natural daylight and provides a bright, crisp light. It is often used in kitchens and workspaces where clear visibility is important.
Dimming Capabilities, Led under cabinet lighting direct wire 120v
Many LED under cabinet lights are dimmable, allowing you to adjust the brightness to suit your needs.
- Dimmable LED Lights: These lights require a compatible dimmer switch to adjust the brightness.
- Choosing the Right Dimmer Switch: It is crucial to choose a dimmer switch that is compatible with the type of LED lights you have. Some dimmer switches are specifically designed for LED lights, while others may not be compatible.
Led under cabinet lighting direct wire 120v – I’m finally tackling that DIY project I’ve been putting off – wiring LED under cabinet lighting directly to 120V. I’m thinking about adding some accent lighting to the faux stone wall in my bedroom, which I’ve been wanting to do for ages , and I think this will be the perfect way to highlight the texture.
It’s a bit intimidating working with electrical wiring, but I’m determined to learn and get it done right. Hopefully, the LED under cabinet lighting will add a nice touch of ambiance to the whole room!
I love the look of LED under cabinet lighting wired directly to 120V, it really makes the space feel modern and functional. And when you’re talking about a kitchen, I think the perfect backdrop for that kind of lighting is a classic setup with cherry cabinets and granite countertops – check out some gorgeous examples here ! It’s that combination of warm wood tones and the sleekness of the granite that makes the LED lighting pop even more, highlighting the details and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
