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  • Writer's pictureSteve Duncan, AIA

BEST UNDERCABINET LINEAR LED: Architect Favorite | 2024 Update

Updated: Aug 27


Snapshot:

BEST UNDERCABINET LINEAR LED
How To Buy: Core Lighting USA LED Tape: USB Series Lightbar Aluminum Channel: Included as part of the light. Power Supply & Dimming: The power supply and dimmer need to be compatible with one another. For my projects I like to use the PSDE-100W 24V-010-JB transformer, paired with a 0-10V dimmer from Lutron. Accessories: Work with your electrician and sales agent to determine if you will need any additional accessories for your project. Color Rendering: 90+ (never buy LEDs that have a score less than 90). A score of 80 is actually worse than fluorescent lighting. Make sure that when you buy the light, you select the 90CRI option. Color Temperature: 3000K (I don't recommend the 4000K option for residential projects) Mounting: Refer to manufacturer cutsheet to confirm the best mounting approach for your project. Lumens: 280 Lumens per foot (1120 per 4' section) Wattage: 20 per 4' section Indoor/Outdoor: Approved for indoor (damp) locations. Saving Cost: Changing to a less costly closet undercabinet light can be an option for reducing costs.

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


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 has noted in the cutsheet that the dimmer choice is dependent on which power supply is chosen. For my projects I like to use the PSDE-100W 24V-010-JB transformer, paired with a 0-10V dimmer from Lutron. It is always worthwhile budgeting for quality dimmers that are compatible with the LED you have chosen.


Value Engineering & Alternates:

Changing to a less costly undercabinet light can be an option for reducing costs on your project and for making the ordering process simpler. If on the other hand you'd like to offer your electrician a similar light fixture from a different brand, I'd recommend checking out WAC's Pro 2 Series.


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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