Plug-in strips work, but cords and outlet-hogging adapters look messy. Under cabinet lighting installation done by a kitchen lighting electrician hides the wiring and puts everything on a wall switch or dimmer. It's a popular upgrade during a backsplash or countertop project, and it can often be added to an existing kitchen too.
Hardwired LED under cabinet systems, explained
Most modern systems are LED. Some fixtures run directly on standard household voltage, while others are low-voltage strips or pucks powered by a driver (transformer) that is tucked inside a cabinet or above the cabinets. Low-voltage systems allow thin fixtures and flexible runs, but the driver needs to be accessible and sized for the total length.
The power has to come from a proper source. Kitchen countertop receptacle circuits are generally dedicated to countertop outlets, so the lights usually get fed from a lighting circuit instead, with a switch in a convenient spot. Wires are run behind the backsplash, through the cabinet backs or down from the space above the cabinets, depending on what's easiest to open up.
Good times to add LED under cabinet lighting
- During a backsplash or countertop replacement, when the wall is exposed
- When the only kitchen light is a single ceiling fixture
- Replacing old fluorescent or halogen strips that run hot
- Adding lighting to a bar area, butler's pantry or laundry counter
- Cleaning up plug-in strips and cords from outlets
Why your current setup may need replacing
- Old halogen pucks that get too hot to touch
- Fluorescent tubes that flicker, hum or take time to start
- Plug-in strips that tie up countertop outlets
- Uneven light with dark gaps between fixtures
- A driver or transformer that buzzes loudly
Running power behind cabinets without a mess
The electrician looks at the kitchen layout, finds a lighting circuit to feed from and figures out where a switch makes sense. They'll plan the fixture lengths for each run of cabinets and find a hidden, accessible place for any driver. If the backsplash is coming off anyway, the wiring can go straight into the wall. If not, they'll route cable through cabinet backs and above the upper cabinets to avoid damaging tile. Pairing this with recessed ceiling lights gives a kitchen both general and task light.
- Source circuit and load for the new lighting
- Switch or dimmer location and type
- Cabinet construction and the depth of the light rail
- Driver size, location and ventilation for low-voltage systems
- Routing that avoids plumbing and gas lines near the range
Safety first. Countertop receptacle circuits carry heavy appliances like toasters and coffee makers, so tapping lights off them is usually not allowed and can cause nuisance tripping. Low-voltage strips are safer to touch, but the driver side is still full household voltage and needs a proper box. Keep drivers out of spots where they'll be buried in dish towels or boxes, since they give off some heat.
How it usually works
Call about your kitchen
Call to connect with a local electrician and mention the cabinet layout and whether a backsplash project is coming.
Plan runs and power
The electrician measures each run, picks a power source and switch location, and confirms fixture choices.
Route wiring and mount fixtures
Cable is routed through the wall or cabinets, drivers are placed, and fixtures are mounted under the cabinets.
Switch it on and check
The switch or dimmer is connected, and every section is tested for even light and quiet operation.
In Murfreesboro and Middle Tennessee homes
Kitchen refreshes are common in Murfreesboro and across Middle Tennessee, especially in homes built during the area's fast growth that still have their original builder lighting. Many of those kitchens have a single ceiling fixture or a few recessed lights and nothing under the cabinets. If you're replacing counters or tile, coordinate the electrical work before the new backsplash goes up. For larger kitchen projects, remodel and addition wiring covers new circuits too.
Related electrical problems
Seeing one of these at home? Each guide explains likely causes and what's safe to check before you call about under-cabinet lighting.