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  • Writer's pictureSteve Duncan, AIA

BEST BUDGET UNDERCABINET LED LIGHT: Developer Favorite | 2024 Update

Updated: Aug 27



Snapshot:

BEST BUDGET UNDERCABINET LED LIGHT
How To Buy: Amazon.com Cutsheet: NSL LED Task Star Pro Dimmer Recommended By Manufacturer: Lutron DVELV-300P Color Rendering: 90+ (never buy LEDs that have a score less than 90). A score of 80 is actually worse than fluorescent lighting. Color Temperature: 2700K, 3300K (I don't recommend the 4000K option for residential projects) Lumens: 950 lumens for the 40" long fixture Wattage: 20 Power Supply/Driver: The driver is built into the light itself. This results in a thicker light fixture, but it also makes it more convenient to install. Indoor/Outdoor: Approved for damp (indoor) locations. Saving Cost: If there isn't budget for undercabinet lights on your project, consider relying instead recessed downlights or adjustable track lighting to provide light on your countertops.

Tips for Using This Light on Your Project | BEST BUDGET UNDERCABINET LED LIGHT:


Dimming:

All dimmers are not created equal. Flickering and buzzing can often be traced back to using a dimmer that isn’t compatible with the LED, or to connecting too many LEDs to a single dimmer. Quality lighting manufacturers often publish literature on which dimmer lines can be used with their LED light fixture. This particular light manufacturer recommends ELV dimmers on their cutsheet. For my projects I like to use Lutron ELV dimmers. It is always worthwhile budgeting for quality dimmers that are compatible with the LED you have chosen.


Value Engineering & Alternates:

If there isn't budget for undercabinet lights on your project, consider relying instead recessed downlights or adjustable track lighting to provide light on your countertops. If on the other hand you'd like to find an undercabinet light that has a sleeker appearance, I recommend checking out the InvisiLED Pro2 Series from WAC.


Lighting Layout:

Architects and designers often ask me "How should I lay out the lighting"? If you need help, check out our free partner site LightingJUMP.com. We provide simple lighting diagrams so that you can be confident in your design.





If you'd like help finding the right lighting vibe for your project, we also offer free Youtube tutorials at Youtube.com/@LightingJUMP 


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