For some time now, many a homeowner feels they have installed lighting everywhere they could possibly need it. In the closets, over the bathroom sink, over the stove top, and sometimes even in the oven. There are lights for the fish tank, the garage, and even the children's desks. But there is one area that has been in the dark far too long.
How many times have you found yourself looking for a certain pot or pan, but it seems to hide in the shadows? How many times have you looked for the perfect spice, but missed it due to the label being hard to read? And how many times have you been caught with the last square of toilet paper, so you desperately search the bathroom cabinet while trying to stay seated – and the new roll appears to be hiding from you?
Well, a new innovation that has been on the market for a short while is available to you to solve all of these painful experiences, and more! Under-cabinet halogen lighting. This kit is the answer to not seeing well inside your kitchen and/or bathroom cabinets, fumbling around aimlessly for what you need.
The first thing for you to know about this opportunity is if you want to do it yourself, then you must go with a low-voltage system. Going with the higher-voltage would require you to hire a specialist to help you get the job done right and safely, but with a low-voltage system you can install it yourself. What's great about a low-voltage system is that is is operated by a remotely controlled wall-mounted switch which looks as good as the permanent system and can be installed in as little as a day.
To begin, you will need a drill, keyhole saw, screwdriver, a wire stripper, a few connecting wires and the lights (with included transformer). Once you have the kit and necessary tools in place, determine the location for each light so that it won't shine in your eyes while you work. Also remember that halogen lights do produce heat, so installing on to wooden cabinets is fine, but keep the lit bulbs away from paper and plastic items.
Now that you have determined where to install your lights, remove the lens and trim rings from each light and install with screws to underside of your cabinets. Make sure that they are aligned so that they all face the same direction. Drill small holes for the wires to go through and plug the wire ends into the power block inside the cabinet. Connect power block to transformer and then drill hole to run wire to 120-volt receptacle from the transformer.
Once the bases are completely installed, snap lens covers onto reflector rings. Next, attach the switch where you wish (it's wireless) by screwing it into the wall, preferably at a stud. Finally, screw cover plate to the switch housing. Congratulations! You have now solved this cabinet lighting dilemma!
Dan Rockington is a remodeling veteran having rehabbed many homes. Lighting can be a key element for resale and he recommends the experts at Lofings for all your
Sacramento lighting needs.
