Installing and Using Halogen Under-Cabinet Lighting: Alkco Under Cabinet Lighting Halogen
Halogen under-cabinet lighting is a popular choice for kitchens and other areas because it provides bright, focused light that can be easily directed. Installing and using halogen under-cabinet lighting is a relatively simple process, but it’s important to follow some basic safety guidelines and best practices.
Installing Halogen Under-Cabinet Lighting
Installing halogen under-cabinet lighting typically involves several steps, including:
- Planning and Measuring: Before you start, determine the placement of the lights and measure the length of the area where you want to install them. This will help you decide how many lights you need and what size of fixture will work best.
- Wiring: Halogen under-cabinet lights typically require a dedicated electrical circuit. You may need to hire an electrician to install a new circuit or tap into an existing one. Make sure the wiring is properly grounded and protected by a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter).
- Mounting: Halogen under-cabinet lights can be mounted in several ways, including:
- Directly to the Cabinet: This is the most common method, and it involves attaching the light fixture directly to the underside of the cabinet using screws or clips.
- Using a Mounting Plate: A mounting plate can be used to create a more secure and professional-looking installation. The plate is attached to the cabinet first, and then the light fixture is attached to the plate.
- Using a J-Rail: A J-rail is a flexible mounting system that allows you to easily install and adjust the position of the lights. The J-rail is attached to the cabinet, and then the light fixtures are slid into the rail.
- Connecting to Power: Once the lights are mounted, you need to connect them to the power source. This typically involves connecting the wires from the light fixture to the wires from the electrical circuit. Make sure the wires are properly connected and secured. Always turn off the power at the breaker before working with any electrical wiring.
Selecting Halogen Bulbs for Under-Cabinet Lighting, Alkco under cabinet lighting halogen
Choosing the right halogen bulbs is crucial for achieving the desired lighting effect. Factors to consider include:
- Wattage: The wattage of a halogen bulb determines how much light it produces. Higher wattage bulbs produce brighter light, but they also consume more energy. The wattage you choose will depend on the size of the area you are lighting and the desired brightness level.
- Color Temperature: Color temperature is measured in Kelvin (K) and describes the color of the light produced by the bulb.
- Warm White (2700K-3000K): This color temperature provides a warm, inviting light that is often used in living rooms and bedrooms.
- Cool White (3500K-4100K): This color temperature produces a brighter, more neutral light that is often used in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Daylight (5000K-6500K): This color temperature produces a very bright, blue-white light that is similar to natural daylight. It is often used in offices and workshops.
- Beam Angle: The beam angle of a halogen bulb determines the spread of the light. A narrow beam angle focuses the light in a specific direction, while a wide beam angle spreads the light over a larger area. The beam angle you choose will depend on the size of the area you are lighting and the desired lighting effect.
Maximizing the Effectiveness of Halogen Under-Cabinet Lighting
Halogen under-cabinet lighting can be a valuable addition to any space, but it’s important to install and use it effectively to maximize its benefits. Here are some tips:
- Placement: The placement of the lights is crucial for achieving the desired lighting effect. Ideally, the lights should be placed about 18 inches below the cabinets, and they should be spaced evenly along the length of the cabinets. This will ensure that the light is evenly distributed and that there are no dark spots.
- Aiming: Aim the lights so that they are pointing towards the area you want to illuminate. For example, if you are using under-cabinet lighting in a kitchen, aim the lights towards the countertops. This will ensure that the work surfaces are well-lit.
- Dimming Options: Halogen under-cabinet lights can be dimmed to create different moods and lighting effects. Dimmers can be installed on the electrical circuit, or you can use dimmable bulbs. Dimmers can be particularly useful in kitchens, where you may want to adjust the lighting depending on the task at hand.
