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How to choose LED lighting for the kitchen work area: A practical guide
Lighting plays a key role in providing a comfortable and functional kitchen work area. Properly chosen LED lighting under upper cabinets will not only improve visibility on the countertop surface, but will also add style and coziness to your kitchen. In this article we will look at the main aspects of choosing LED lighting for the kitchen work area under the cabinets.
1. Types of LED backlight
Before choosing LED backlighting, you should decide on the type of backlighting. The most popular options are:
- Lamps made from LED strip in profile: Convenient for installation and can be either recessed or surface-mounted/corner. Installed under overhead cabinets. If the choice is made in favor of built-in profiles, then make sure that the cutter is made for the desired profile. Made to order exactly to your dimensions, taking into account the characteristics of your work area.
- Recessed luminaires in various shapes: Offer more concentrated lighting and can be installed directly inside cabinets.
- Surface-mounted luminaires: Provide easy installation and do not require additional hole preparation.
2. Brightness and angle of light dispersion
Determine the required brightness of the light depending on the size and configuration of your kitchen work area. The angle of the light also plays an important role: a wide angle will provide even illumination, while a narrow angle will focus the light on a specific area.
3. Color temperature
The choice of LED backlight color temperature depends on your preferences, design and functionality of the kitchen. Warm light (around 2700K-3000K) creates a cozy atmosphere, while cooler light (around 4000K-6000K) is preferred to enhance brightness and concentration in work.
4. Energy efficient and durable
Pay attention to the energy efficiency of the selected LED backlight, as this will reduce energy consumption and energy costs. Also ensure the durability and quality of the fixtures to avoid frequent replacement or maintenance.
5. Sensorid
There are several types of switches that can be used with LED strips to provide lighting control.
If you forgot to remove the switch or want a more modern and functional lamp, we recommend installing touch switches in the profile. It's comfortable, stylish and reliable.
Here are some of the most common:
- Touch switch with a spring - the most popular among switches of this kind. The tape turns on by lightly pressing the place under the cover where it is installed. The sensor is illuminated with a blue light so that it can be easily found under the matte cover. It has a dimming function and remembers the last brightness setting.
- Touch switch “Hand” - triggered by a wave of the hand at a distance of up to 10 cm at the place of its installation. It is convenient because you can turn on the light while cooking if necessary - the lamp will not get dirty.
- Touch switch with a button – turns on the lamp when you press a small button. Suitable for those who prefer push-button switches, but want them to look neater and more elegant. It has a dimming function and remembers the last brightness setting.
- Touch Slide switch - turns on the backlight when you press not on the cover where the switch is installed, but on the aluminum part of the profile anywhere. Ideal only for small lamps, since the maximum possible length of the ribbon connected to it is 1 meter.
- Touch day/night switch – automatically turns on the backlight when it gets dark.
- PIR touch switch – turns on the backlight when motion is detected near the sensor. It differs from the “Hand” sensor in that it has a longer response radius. Can be triggered when animals move.
- CCT Touch Switch (3000K-6000K) - ideal for those who want a backlight with adjustable color temperature, but don't want to use a remote control or another separate switch. Has the function of adjusting color temperature and brightness.
- Touch sensors or touch sensors
These sensors react when you touch them. They can be mounted on or near surfaces and offer an easy way to control lighting using touch. They may support brightness or color temperature adjustment, and some have memory, i.e. remember the last brightness setting.
- Sensors on the swing of the hand
These sensors are activated when a hand approaches them. They are installed inside the lamp or on the surface and have a brightness adjustment function.
- PIR sensors
Such switches allow you to turn on the lamp when moving near it. They differ from the previous ones in that they work at a longer distance, i.e. do not need a close wave of the hand. They have adjustable operating range.
- Day/night sensors
These sensors respond to changes in light levels in the environment. When the light level drops to a certain level, the LED strip automatically turns on. This allows you to save energy and provide lighting only when it is really needed.
- Remote controls, buttons and wall switches
If you want to be able to control the light remotely, remote controls, buttons and wireless wall switches with corresponding controllers are ideal for you. This solution is also perfect for those who plan to concentrate the control of all kitchen lamps on one unit.
The specific type of sensor you choose depends on your preferences, the needs of your space, and the level of automation you want. Once you have decided on the sensor type, make sure the LED strip you choose is compatible with the control device you choose to ensure proper system operation.
6. Installation
Before purchasing, make sure that the installation of LED backlighting will be easy and hassle-free. If you plan to build in lamps, prepare holes for them or use the services of a specialist for this work. Don't forget to bring out the wires and take care of the place where the transformer will be placed. It is important that the location of the power supply is always accessible.
Choosing LED lighting for the kitchen work area may seem difficult, but now, after reading the article, you already know what to look for and will probably cope with this task, but remember that it is always better to trust professionals who will quickly and efficiently do all the work for you! We specialize in such projects and will be happy to select the appropriate option for you, produce the lamp, and all you have to do is install it! If you do not want to do the installation yourself, or do not have sufficient knowledge and time, then we will help with the installation! Our master will come to your home and do everything at the highest level!
If you need high-quality light, come to ABCLED!
For many years, our company has specialized in the manufacture and installation of lighting fixtures of all types.
For advice, contact us by e-mail at info@abcled.ee or at the salon at Pae tn 21 Tallinn.
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