Steps for installing under-cabinet lighting

  • Go to the main electrical panel and turn off the power to the existing under cabinet lights and outlets.
  • Unscrew the old light fixtures from the underside of the cabinets.
  • Use a jigsaw to cut a hole in the cabinet back for an old-work junction box.
  • Cut a similar hole in the wall directly above the cabinets.
  • Push two nonmetallic electrical cables through the upper hole and down into the hole cut inside the cabinet.
  • Cut a hole in the kitchen wall for an old-work switch box, then use a fish tape to pull a cable into the hole.
  • Push the ends of the cables through the rear of the switch box, then screw the box to the kitchen wall.
  • Wire a dimmer switch into the box; be sure the switch is designed for use with LED lights.
  • Make the wire connections in the junction box inside the cabinet. Screw a blank cover onto the junction box.
  • Make the wire connections inside the light fixtures, then screw the fixtures to the underside of the cabinets.
  • Run a new cable to the wall beneath the cabinets, then install the 120-volt outlet strips.
  • Make the final wire connections at the outlet strips and test your work.

Tools:

Project details

Skill

Cost

Estimated Time

Tools & Materials

  • Jigsaw
  • Drywall saw
  • Screwdriver
  • Torpedo level
  • Pliers
  • Cordless drill/driver
  • Fish tape
  • Wire stripper