Hiding LED strips under cabinets is a popular and effective way to add ambient lighting to your kitchen or other areas. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Gather materials: You will need LED light strips, a power supply, an LED controller (if desired), adhesive mounting clips or tape, a power cord (if not included with the LED light strips), wire connectors or soldering equipment, and a power source.
Measure and plan: Determine the length of LED strip needed for the area you want to light up. Take measurements along the underside of the cabinets and consider any corners or obstacles that may affect the installation.
Prepare the surface: Clean the underside of the cabinets thoroughly to ensure proper adhesion. Use a mild cleanser and a cloth to remove any grease, dust, or debris.
Mount the LED strips: Remove the adhesive backing from the LED strip and carefully press it onto the underside of the cabinet, following the measured path. Ensure the strip is positioned straight and secure. If necessary, use adhesive mounting clips or tape to hold the strip in place.
Connect the LED strips: Depending on the type of LED strips you have, you may need to connect multiple strips together. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for making the connections. This may involve using wire connectors or soldering the wires together.
Install the power supply: Locate a suitable location for the power supply, which converts the AC power to DC power for the LED strips. It should be accessible and hidden from view, such as inside a cabinet or in a nearby electrical outlet. Connect the power supply to the LED strips using the appropriate connectors.
Test the lighting: Before securing all the wires, test the LED strips to ensure they are functioning correctly. Plug in the power supply and verify that the lights turn on and adjust them using any included controllers if needed.
Conceal the wires: Hide the wires as much as possible to maintain a clean and professional look. Use cable management solutions like cable clips, channels, or adhesive cable raceways to secure the wires along the underside of the cabinets or against the backsplash. This will help keep the wires organized and minimize their visibility.
Remember to always follow safety guidelines and consult the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your LED light strips.