How to Light Under the Countertops

Rope Lights

• Rope lights are exactly what the word implies: long strands with lights concealed within a plastic hoselike coating or wrapping. They're small but powerful enough to light almost any dim countertop. Rope light is available in different sizes, most small enough to tuck under the front lip on the cabinets, with different lengths that can be linked together or used individually. Rope lights are quick and convenient, attaching to the lip with small brackets or adhesive backing. Rope lights plug directly into wall outlets and consume less power that conventional lighting. The switch is typically at one end of the rope, and you can choose which end works best for you.

Puck Lights

• For convenient, affordable lighting right where you need it, puck lights are the way to go. They resemble a hockey puck: thin, flat and round. Using small light-emitting diodes, they are powerful and tuck away out of sight under almost any countertop. They are more focused than rope lights because you arrange puck lights to shine a beam of light directly where you want it. Battery-powered types install without cords, with individual switches for each light. Other puck lights wire together and plug into the wall with a single switch for all of them. If you're looking for simplicity and convenience, install battery-powered puck lights. Wired puck lights are more permanent and initially are a bit more difficult to install but last longer. Attach puck lights to the bottom of the counter using small screws or adhesive fasteners.

Fluorescent

• Some builders use fluorescent fixtures to light countertops. This type of lighting has been the industry standard for many years. Fluorescent tube lights flood the countertop with broad illumination. They are small and tuck under the cabinet lip -- but not as much as rope or puck lights. The front of the fixture is almost always visible. Some people prefer the bluish or cool light produced by fluorescent bulbs, and with the energy-efficient ratings on some fixtures, they provide long-lasting solutions. Install fluorescent lights directly to the underside of the cabinets using screws. For convenience, wire them in a series, or place individual fixtures or where you need them. One drawback: Some people find fluorescent lights noisy due to an audible hum.

Hard-Wired

• For most consumers, battery-powered or plug-in lights are the best aftermarket choice for under-counter lighting. But you can also wire your under-counter lights directly into your home's electrical system. This type of system hides all wires and operates from a wall switch. Expect to pay more for this type of system because a professional will likely have to perform the necessary electrical work. Hard-wired systems add more value to your home, and with efficient LED lights or energy-saving fluorescent bulbs, they may save you money over the long run, in part because you don't need to change batteries. If you're starting from scratch with a new set of cabinets or building a home, plan on installing a hard-wired system for optimum results.