Electrical & Lighting • Kitchen Upgrade

How to Install Under-Cabinet Lighting

Add useful task lighting to a kitchen or workspace with a plug-in or low-voltage under-cabinet lighting system, clean cable routing and optional smart control.

Before you start

This guide focuses on plug-in and low-voltage lighting systems that can be installed without modifying household branch-circuit wiring. Read the lighting manufacturer's instructions and confirm that all lights, power supplies, connectors, mounting materials and controls are compatible.

If your project requires adding or modifying mains-voltage wiring, switches, receptacles or junction boxes, follow applicable electrical requirements and use a qualified electrician when appropriate.

Project checklist

Plan the lighting layout. Measure each cabinet run and decide where light will be most useful. Check the kit's maximum connected length, spacing and power-supply requirements.
Choose the power location. Identify a suitable existing receptacle for a plug-in system and plan a cord route that avoids heat sources, water exposure, sharp edges and moving cabinet hardware.
Test before mounting. Temporarily connect the system according to the manufacturer's instructions and verify that each light, connector and control works before permanently mounting anything.
Mount the lights. Clean and prepare mounting surfaces as directed. Use the supplied hardware or an approved mounting method and position fixtures consistently for even task lighting.
Route and secure low-voltage cords. Use compatible clips or raceway to keep wiring neat and protected. Avoid pinching, sharply bending or fastening through cords.
Finish and test. Connect the system, check the entire cabinet run and confirm cords and connectors remain secure. Add compatible smart control only if the lighting system supports being switched at its plug.

Useful products

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LED Under-Cabinet Light Kit

The primary lighting system for the project. Confirm the kit's dimensions, power requirements, controls and linking limits fit your cabinet layout.

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Cable-Management Clips / Raceway

Helps route and conceal compatible low-voltage cords for a cleaner installation while keeping wiring away from cabinet hardware.

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Double-Sided Mounting Tape

An optional mounting aid when the lighting manufacturer permits adhesive mounting. Surface preparation and weight limits matter.

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Smart Plug

An optional way to schedule or remotely control a compatible plug-in lighting system. Verify the lights behave correctly when power is switched at the plug.

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Placement tips

Keep the installation visually consistent across cabinet runs, place task lighting where it illuminates the work surface effectively, and conceal cords without creating pinch points. For adhesive-mounted components, use only mounting methods allowed by the lighting manufacturer.

Related lighting project

Planning another lighting upgrade? See How to Install a Ceiling Fan.