Under-Cabinet LED Lighting: What to Plan Before Installation

[cedricuk]

When planning LED lighting under kitchen cabinets, there are a few details that seem worth getting right before the units and worktops are finished.

 

For a neat installation, how do people usually plan the driver location, cable routes and access for future maintenance? Hiding the driver inside a cupboard can keep things tidy, but it still needs to be accessible if it ever needs replacing.

 

I’m also interested in the practical differences between fitting LED strip in an aluminium profile with a diffuser and using ready-made under-cabinet light fittings. Is the profile approach worth it for better light distribution and heat management, or do integrated fittings tend to be simpler in the long run?

 

It would be useful to hear what has worked well in real kitchen installations, particularly when planning everything before the cabinets go in.

[Mr Punter]

With the integrated fittings, if they are discontinued or you alter the kitchen you may not be able to get the right lengths.  Make sure they are able to switch from the same place as the rest of the lighting.