Light the preparation surfaces without glare
Mark the preparation areas, sink, hob and any appliances normally left on the worktop. The underside of a wall cabinet is a possible mounting location, but useful light depends on how it reaches the working surface and the position of the person using it.
Check for cabinet trims, shelves and changes in depth that could block or expose a fitting. A light visible from the dining table can cause glare even when it illuminates the worktop well. Photos and a cabinet drawing make these details easier to discuss.
Compare LED strips, profiles and light bars
Compare LED strips, profiles and light bars
LED tape, profiles and linear fittings can create different effects and maintenance arrangements. Consider how evenly the worktop is lit, whether individual points are visible and how the light looks on a reflective surface.
A product described as bright or warm does not answer every question. Compare output, colour appearance, colour rendering and dimming if relevant. Use exact product specifications rather than choosing solely by the length of a strip or the price of a kit.
Keep drivers and connections accessible
Keep drivers and connections accessible
Some systems need separate drivers, connectors or controls. Their location, ventilation and future access are part of the plan. Hiding all equipment behind finished cabinetry can make later maintenance unnecessarily difficult.
Share the kitchen supplier’s lighting package if one is included. Clarify what they provide and what the electrician is expected to supply and connect. The wiring and product combination should be agreed before cabinets conceal the route.
Choose independent switching or dimming
Choose independent switching or dimming
You may want task lighting independently from ceiling lights, or an evening setting that leaves general lighting off. Explain the combinations you want and where controls should be convenient when entering and working in the room.
If the kitchen is already fitted, describe access above and below cabinets and whether finishes can be disturbed. A retrofit needs its own route and making-good discussion; a supplied lighting kit does not remove those practical decisions.
What to share with your enquiry
- Kitchen and wall-cabinet layout
- Main preparation areas
- Existing or proposed lighting products
- Driver and connection access
- Switching preferences and fitting dates
Questions answered
Should I choose LED strips or individual under-cabinet lights?
Compare how evenly each option lights the worktop and whether the light source will be visible from nearby seating. Also check colour, controls, maintenance and the complete driver system. The cabinet layout and desired result matter more than choosing one format for every kitchen.
Ask Max about thisWhere should the LED driver go?
In a location that meets the product’s ventilation and installation requirements and remains accessible for maintenance. Agree its position before cabinets conceal the route, along with access to the connections and controls.
Ask Max about thisShould worktop lights use the same switch as the ceiling?
Independent switching lets you use the worktop lights without the main ceiling lights. The best arrangement depends on how you cook, dine and use the kitchen in the evening. Include the preferred combinations in the wiring plan.
Ask Max about thisCan under-cabinet lights be added to a finished kitchen?
A retrofit can be discussed, but available cable routes, cabinet trims and access to a suitable supply affect the options. Share photographs and explain which finishes may be disturbed. Ask the quotation to cover the controls, drivers, installation and any associated making good.
Ask Max about thisCan I extend my existing LED strip with another brand?
Do not assume different strips, connectors and drivers are interchangeable. The voltage, loading, control system and manufacturer requirements need to match. Provide the existing product details and the length or area you want to add so the complete arrangement can be assessed.
Ask Max about thisSources and further reading
Read the original guidance relevant to this question. Building Regulations and rental-law references here relate to England.