How to install LED light strips under the cabinets

The under-cabinet lighting can illuminate your countertop, providing a better working lighting effect. It can reduce shadows and enhance the beauty of the kitchen, giving it a modern and simple appearance.
Using LED light strips as the lighting under the cabinets can not only reduce electricity consumption but also provide bright illumination, thereby improving energy efficiency. The lifespan of LED light strips is also longer than that of traditional lighting, making it a more economical and practical choice for lighting the kitchen countertop. LED light strips are also easy to cut and bend, making customization more flexible.
If you are keen on installing LED light strips under the cabinet, please read on to learn everything you need to know - as well as the complete step-by-step guide.

LED light strips are an excellent choice for under-cabinet lighting. They can enhance the visual appeal of the kitchen, giving your countertops and backsplashes a fashionable and modern look. Moreover, LED light strips are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide excellent working lighting. Compared to traditional under-cabinet lighting, they consume less energy. This is an economical and efficient way that can make food preparation easier and safer.
One of the biggest attractions of LED light strips is their ease of installation. Many LED light strip kits come with plug-and-play functionality, and you simply need to stick the strips on. They are also easy to cut, bend and twist, and can be seamlessly installed on any size of cabinet.

1.LED light strips
Of course, the first thing you need is the light strips. Since you are going to install the LED light strips under the cabinet, choosing light strips with a higher IP protection rating (at least IP65) is ideal, especially near the sink and stove, as moisture and liquids may enter the light strips in these areas. Additionally, you need to consider the color of the single-color light strips, whether it is warm white, cool white or natural white.

2.Power Supply (Driver)
The length of the LED light strip determines its total power, which in turn determines the power of the LED driver required for installation. To cope with any sudden power surges, it is recommended that the LED light strip operate at only 80% of the power supply's rated power. This helps to avoid overheating and irreparable damage due to electrical issues.

3.LED Controller and Dimmer (Optional)
Do you need adjustable lighting for your cabinet? Please consider this as well, but don't sacrifice lighting brightness for the sake of aesthetics. If you need dimming functionality, please purchase a compatible controller/dimmer for your light strips. Otherwise, your lamps may eventually encounter problems such as flickering, damage, or burning out.

4.Connect cables/wires
Especially when working on DIY LED light strips, make sure to purchase the correct type of wires with a rated voltage of 12 volts or 24 volts, which is similar to the rated voltage of the LED light strip. You will use these wires to connect the light strip to the power source and/or controller.

5.Solderless connectors or soldering supplies
If you are a beginner, or just prefer to easily connect LEDs using connectors, choose the solderless connectors. For advanced DIY enthusiasts who enjoy soldering, make sure your soldering kit is complete.

6.Install clamps or strong double-sided adhesive tape
Determine the installation method for the LED light strip. Strong double-sided adhesive tape is the most suitable for smooth and clean surfaces. Installation clamps are suitable for uneven surfaces or those that cannot be adhered with adhesives.

7.Wire clips or cable management
You definitely don't want to see messy cables, especially when you want to make your kitchen countertop look stylish and modern. Prepare some wire clips or cable ties to make it easy to organize the cables.

8.Cleaning supplies (isopropyl alcohol)
If you use double-sided tape to install the LED light strips, please prepare some isopropyl alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol is a good cleaner for most surfaces. A clean surface has better adhesion.

Step 1:Plan the Layout First
Determine LED light strip placement and installation beneath the cabinet. Avoid direct illumination and consider homogeneous countertop lighting to avoid shadows and dark patches.
Step 2: Measure and cut LED strips
Carefully cut the LED light strips to the project's specifications after accurately measuring their size. Avoid mild strip damage using sharp scissors or a utility knife.
Step 3: Installation surface cleanup
Clean the cabinet bottom with isopropyl alcohol, especially if you're putting LED light strips adhesively. Let the surface dry fully after cleaning.
Step 4: Connect LED strip
Remove the backing tape and gently connect the LED strip to a clean surface. In uneven places, mounting clips or strong double-sided sticky tape are advised for a more solid attachment.
Step 5:Connect LED light strips (if using several parts)
Solderless connections and welding strips combined need precise polarity.
Step 6: Connect electricity and controller (if needed).
Again, proper polarity is essential during operation. Connect the LED light strip to the power source and controller using low-voltage cables and connections. A licensed electrician can advise you on wiring methods.
Step 7: Power supply installation
Install the power supply in a convenient, dry, and cool position. Professional tip: Install the LED string with its power connector near the socket.
Step 8:Manage Electrical Wires
Use wire clips, cable ties, or other wire management tools to conceal and secure kitchen cabinet cables. Proper wire management keeps electrical systems clean and safe.
Step 9: Check the lights
Check the lights by connecting the power source and turning them on. Test dimmer and controller functioning after installation. To confirm smart LED light strips operate, try the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection, smartphone app, and voice control.

Avoid circuit overload.
Use the right driver or power supply.
Wrap any exposed wires with insulation tape or tubing.
Please have a licensed electrician connect the electricity to the main circuit if you cannot operate.

Many of benwei Lighting's LED lighting products are light strips with associated drivers and controllers. We are a Chinese LED light company that offers economical, high-quality lighting.

For more details about our offerings, please contact us at bwzm18@ledbenweilighting.com.