What is puck light ?
A puck light is a kind of small, circular, and often disc-shaped light fixture used for under cabinet lighting, accent lighting, or task lighting in various settings such as kitchens, display cabinets, or closets. It usually has surface-mounted or recessed in intallation. Moreover, there are plug-in puck light and hardwired version by classifying based on apartment.
What is hardwired puck light ?
A hardwired puck light is a type of puck light that is designed to be directly connected to the electrical wiring. Unlike plug-in puck light, which is to directly plug into an existing electrical outlet, hardwired puck light requires a more professional installation, in which may requires licensed electrician for properly connected to the electrical system and comply with safety regulations.
The difference between hardwired puck light and plug-in puck light
Installing hardwired under cabinet puck lights
Hardwired puck light is directly connected to the electrical wiring into a junction box or electrical system within the wall in your house. While plug-in puck light is simply plugged into a standard electrical outlet. Installing hardwired puck light usually requires licensed electrician.
Hardwired puck light for cleaner aesthetic
Hardwird puck light offers a cleaner and more integrated appearance than that of plug-in puck light. If you prefer invisible cords and less portable lighting fixtures, hardwired puck light is definitely your good options for kitchen, cabinet or wardrobe.
The benefits of using hardwired under cabinet puck lighting
1.Integrated part of kitchen cabinet
Just like mentioned before, it is a permanent lighting solution once installed, which means the hardwired puck light becomes an integrated part of kitchen cabinet, providing ambient ligting to your kitchen.
2.Safe installation
It usually needs licensed electrician to install the light. In other words, it does not only ensure the safety in the installation process but also make sure it is in compliance with building codes and regulations.
3.More reliable
Because it is wired into the electrical system, the hardwired puck light is not easy to be unplugged or disconnected, ensuring more reliable lighting for the kitchen cabinet.
4.Cost-saving
Since it is wired into the electrical system, there is no extra cost of buying LED power supply that help you save your budget for more.
More complicated installation
It is true that installing hardwired puck light is more complicated than that of plu-in puck light, which is better to have electrician to ensure proper and safe intallation. But it worth your money since it can created cleaner looking for your kitchen cabinet.
What the correct hardwired puck light intallation is ?
It is important to properly install your harwired undet puck lighting. Here are a few steps for guide.
1.Make a proper installation plan
Determine where the puck lights installed, and consider the wiring route and ensure there is access to an electrical junction box for connection.
2.Make sure the power is off before installation
Before installation, you need to turn the power off at the area that is going to install.
3.Wiring the cable
Making sure the wiring is properly sized and rated for the load, and follow local electrical codes.
4.Putting the puck lights onto the surface of kitchen cabinet
Mount each puck light on its designated location using screws or mounting brackets provided with the lights. Ensure they are positioned evenly and securely.
5.Connect and secure the welding
Strip the insulation from the ends of the wiring, then connect the wires from the puck lights to the corresponding wires in the electrical junction box. Typically, this involves connecting the black (hot), white (neutral), and green or bare (ground) wires.
Use wire nuts to securely connect the wires, then neatly tuck them into the electrical junction box or secure them along the wiring route using cable staples or clips.
6.Test the Installation
Once all the wiring connections are made, turn the power back on at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Test each puck light to ensure it turns on and off properly.
7.Adjustments
Make any necessary adjustments to the positioning or angle of the puck lights to achieve the desired lighting effect. Ensure they provide adequate illumination and coverage.
8.Ensure the installation
Once satisfied with the placement and functionality of the puck lights, secure any loose wiring and close the electrical junction box cover. Clean up any debris or mess from the installation process. Finally,to perform a final safety check to ensure all connections are secure and there are no exposed wires. Consider hiring a licensed electrician to inspect the installation for compliance with local electrical codes, especially if you’re not confident in your abilities.
How to select hardwired cabinet puck light ?
Similar to select other lighting fixtures, it needs to consider the brightness, color temperature, the size and product quality, etc.
1. The brightness
Determine the level of brightness you need for your space. Consider factors such as the size of the area you’re lighting and the tasks you’ll be performing. Look for puck lights with adjustable brightness settings or ones that offer the appropriate lumen output for your needs.
2.Color temperature
Decide on the desired color temperature of the light. Warm white (around 2700-3000 Kelvin) provides a cozy, inviting ambiance, while cool white (around 4000-5000 Kelvin) offers a brighter, more energizing light. Choose a color temperature that complements the overall aesthetic of your kitchen or space.
3.Product size
Consider the size and design of the puck lights, ensuring they fit seamlessly under your cabinets or in the desired location. Opt for slim and low-profile designs that won’t protrude too much from the cabinet surface.
4.Quality and Durability
Look for hardwired puck lights made from high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. Check customer reviews and ratings to gauge the reliability and performance of the lights.