How to Install Under‑Cabinet Lighting (Step‑by‑Step Guide)

Category: Installation Guides

Reading Time: 6 minutes

Under‑cabinet lighting instantly upgrades any kitchen, office, or workspace by adding clean, modern illumination. Whether you're installing LED strips, puck lights, or hardwired fixtures, this guide walks you through the full installation process — planning, mounting, wiring, and setup.

Tools & Materials Needed

• LED strip lights or puck light kit

• Measuring tape

• Screwdriver

• Drill + drill bits (if mounting puck lights)

• Cleaning wipes or alcohol pads

• Wire clips or cable raceways

• Power adapter or hardwire kit

• Pencil

Safety Notes

• If hardwiring, turn off power at the breaker before touching any electrical lines.

• Avoid placing lights too close to heat sources.

• Use UL‑listed, in‑wall rated cables for hardwired installations.

Step 1: Choose Your Lighting Type

LED Strip Lights

• Easiest to install

• Great for continuous, even lighting

• Ideal for modern kitchens

Puck Lights

• Brighter, focused lighting

• Good for task areas

• Requires drilling for mounting

Choose the option that fits your space and style.

Step 2: Measure the Installation Area

1. Measure the underside of each cabinet.

2. Determine how many strips or puck lights you need.

3. Plan where the power supply will be located.

Pro Tip: Hide the power supply inside a cabinet for a cleaner look.

Step 3: Prepare the Surface

1. Clean the underside of the cabinets with alcohol wipes.

2. Let the surface dry completely.

3. This ensures the adhesive backing sticks properly.

Step 4: Install the Lighting

For LED Strips

1. Peel a small section of the adhesive backing.

2. Press the strip firmly into place.

3. Continue peeling and pressing in small sections.

4. Use wire clips for extra support if needed.

For Puck Lights

1. Mark the mounting locations with a pencil.

2. Drill pilot holes if required.

3. Screw the puck lights into place.

4. Route the wires neatly along the cabinet underside.

Step 5: Connect the Power

Plug‑In Installation

1. Connect the lights to the included power adapter.

2. Plug the adapter into a nearby outlet.

3. Hide the cable using clips or a raceway.

Hardwired Installation

1. Turn off power at the breaker.

2. Connect the lighting wires to the junction box.

3. Match wire colors (black to black, white to white, ground to ground).

4. Restore power and test.

Step 6: Configure the Lighting

1. Turn on the lights using the switch, remote, or app.

2. Adjust brightness and color temperature.

3. Set schedules or automation if using smart lighting.

Step 7: Test and Adjust

1. Check for dark spots or uneven lighting.

2. Ensure all strips or pucks are securely mounted.

3. Tidy up any visible wires.

Final Checks

• Lighting is even and bright

• No sagging strips or loose puck lights

• Power supply is hidden

• Cables are neatly routed

• Smart controls (if used) are working

Need Professional Under‑Cabinet Lighting Installation?

ETIGROUP provides clean, modern, and code‑safe under‑cabinet lighting installations across Las Vegas and Henderson. We handle:

• LED strip lighting

• Puck light systems

• Hardwired installations

• Smart lighting integration

• Clean cable routing

Book your install today.

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