A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Under Cabinet Lighting in the UK
Under cabinet lighting has become a popular option for house owners and tenants looking to improve both the functionality and aesthetic appeal of their kitchen areas and workspaces. Ongoing of lighting offers ample lighting for counter tops while offering a modern touch to the overall style. With various options offered in the UK market, choosing the right under cabinet lighting can be a difficult job. Buy Lamps Online UK aims to help you navigate the myriad of choices by detailing crucial factors to consider, numerous types of lighting, and tips for installation.
Why Choose Under Cabinet Lighting?
Under cabinet lighting not only serves a practical function however also substantially improves the ambiance of a room. Here are some reasons why under cabinet lighting is worth considering:
- Improved Visibility: Eliminates shadows on work surfaces, making it simpler to prepare meals or total tasks.
- Energy Efficiency: Many modern alternatives use LED innovation, which consumes less power and lasts longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Can transform the appearance of your kitchen or work space, including visual interest and depth.
- Flexibility: Suitable for different settings, including kitchens, office, and garages.
Kinds of Under Cabinet Lighting
When looking for under cabinet lighting in the UK, it's vital to understand what types are offered. Each has its special features and benefits.
1. LED Strip Lights
- Description: Flexible strips with adhesive backing that can be cut to size.
- Pros: Easy to set up, energy-efficient, and offered in numerous colors and brightness levels.
- Cons: May require a different power supply or transformer.
2. Puck Lights
- Description: Small, round lights usually installed directly under cabinets.
- Pros: Provide focused lighting and are perfect for highlighting specific locations.
- Cons: Limited protection area compared to strips or fluorescent lights.
3. Under Cabinet Light Bars
- Description: Slim, extended fixtures that produce light along a bar.
- Pros: Provide even lighting across a broad surface; many are offered with adjustable brightness.
- Cons: Bulkier than other types, potentially impacting the aesthetics of smooth cabinetry.
4. Fluorescent Tube Lights
- Description: Long, tube-shaped lights commonly utilized in business settings.
- Pros: Offer brilliant, even illumination; ideal for bigger work surfaces.
- Cons: Less energy-efficient than LED choices and might require more maintenance.
5. Hard-Wired Fixtures
- Description: Permanent lighting services installed directly into the electrical system.
- Pros: Provides a tidy look with no noticeable cords.
- Cons: More complex setup; often requires professional help.
Crucial Considerations Before Purchasing
Before making a decision on under cabinet lighting, a number of factors must be considered:
1. Brightness and Color Temperature
- Lux Levels: Determine the needed brightness for your jobs. The majority of under cabinet lighting options variety from 200 to 800 lumens.
- Color Temperature: Choose in between warm white (2700K to 3000K), neutral white (3500K to 4100K), or cool white (5000K to 6500K) depending upon the desired state of mind.
2. Installation Method
- DIY or Professional: Assess your comfort level with DIY projects. Affordable Lighting UK -and-play functions, while others need circuitry.
- Location and Space: Consider the size and design of the area under the cabinets for optimal installation and lighting effect.
3. Energy Efficiency and Lifespan
- Go with LED choices for longer life expectancy (frequently up to 50,000 hours) and lower energy costs.
4. Control Options
- Look for fixtures with dimmer switches or remote controls that supply flexibility in changing brightness levels.
Setup Tips
Setting up under cabinet lighting can be straightforward, particularly if following these ideas:
- Plan the Layout: Determine where lights will be set up and guarantee they fit well within the space.
- Step Twice: Measure the length of the cabinet to buy the right size of lights.
- Usage Adhesives or Clips: For strip lights, utilize the adhesive backing or clips for protected installation.
- Follow Electrical Safety Codes: Ensure compliance with regional electrical codes when setting up hard-wired fixtures.
- Test Before Securing: Always test lights before finalizing their position to guarantee you are pleased with the brightness and positioning.
Expense Considerations
The cost of under cabinet lighting in the UK varies significantly based upon the type, quality, and brand. To provide you an idea, here's a basic pricing table:
| Type | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| LED Strip Lights | ₤ 10 - ₤ 50 |
| Puck Lights | ₤ 15 - ₤ 40 (for a set) |
| Light Bars | ₤ 20 - ₤ 70 |
| Fluorescent Lights | ₤ 15 - ₤ 60 |
| Hard-Wired Fixtures | ₤ 30 - ₤ 150 |
Frequently asked questions about Under Cabinet Lighting
Q1: Can under cabinet lighting be linked to a switch?
Yes, lots of under cabinet lighting systems can be linked to a switch, enabling simple control of the lighting.
Q2: Is under cabinet lighting suitable for all cabinet types?
Many under cabinet lighting is flexible and can be set up in different cabinet designs, as long as there suffices area.
Q3: How long will LED under cabinet lights last?
Typically, quality LED under cabinet lights can last up to 50,000 hours, significantly decreasing the requirement for replacements.
Q4: Are there battery-operated alternatives offered?
Yes, battery-operated under cabinet lights are readily available, making them perfect for tenants or those who want to avoid electrical installations.
Q5: Do I require an expert to set up under cabinet lights?
While many options are user-friendly and enable DIY setup, hard-wired fixtures usually need professional help for security and compliance.
Buying under cabinet lighting in the UK offers an opportunity to boost not just the functionality of your area but also its aesthetic appeal. With a myriad of types offered, it is important to consider your specific requirements, the space at hand, and installation choices. Following this thorough guide ensures you make an informed purchase that transforms your environment into a practical and trendy haven.
