Low voltage under cabinet lighting refers to lighting systems that operate on 12 volts (12V) or 24 volts (24V) DC, requiring a separate power supply or transformer under cabinet lights to convert standard 120V household electricity. This type of system is favored for its enhanced safety, energy efficiency, and ability to use smaller, more discreet fixtures, making it the premier choice for custom kitchens and intricate display lighting designs. The adoption of 12V under cabinet lights and 24V systems is rapidly growing for modern, safe low voltage kitchen lights.
Advantages of Low Voltage Under Cabinet Lighting
Choosing a low voltage under cabinet lighting system provides distinct benefits over line-voltage fixtures, particularly when planning complex layouts:
- Enhanced Safety: The most significant advantage is safety. Operating at 12V or 24V reduces the risk of electrical shock, making low voltage kitchen lights ideal for DIY installations and areas near water.
- Minimalist Design: Since the power supply (or transformer under cabinet lights) is located remotely, the fixtures themselves can be extremely small and low profile, allowing for true discreet placement.
- Energy Efficiency: LED technology is inherently efficient, and running fixtures on 12V or 24V maximizes this efficiency, resulting in significant long-term energy savings.
- Flexible Wiring: The thinner, safer wiring used for 12V under cabinet lights and 24V systems is easier to conceal and allows for more versatile wiring layouts, which is crucial for custom cabinet configurations.
Key Components: Driver, Voltage, and 12V vs 24V Systems
Understanding the two core components is essential for selecting the right low voltage under cabinet lighting system:
- The Power Supply (Driver/Transformer): Every low voltage under cabinet lighting system requires a transformer under cabinet lights or driver to reduce 120V household power to the safe, extra-low voltage (ELV) needed for the LEDs. These drivers can be hardwired or plug-in and are typically concealed inside or on top of cabinets.
- 12V vs. 24V Systems: While both are considered low voltage, 24V systems are typically used for longer continuous runs of lighting. The higher voltage minimizes "voltage drop," ensuring the light remains bright and consistent from the start to the end of the run, whereas 12V under cabinet lights are better suited for shorter runs.
Explore the Safest Low Voltage Kitchen Lights
For a safe, elegant, and professional result, low voltage under cabinet lighting is the best choice for custom installations. Whether you opt for 12V under cabinet lights for small areas or a robust 24V system, you gain safety and flexibility. We are confident our selection at Bees Lighting offers the highest quality transformer under cabinet lights and fixtures for your low voltage kitchen lights project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is low voltage under cabinet lighting?
What is low voltage under cabinet lighting?
Is low voltage lighting safer than 120V?
Is low voltage lighting safer than 120V?
What does the transformer or driver do in low voltage under cabinet lighting?
What does the transformer or driver do in low voltage under cabinet lighting?
Is low voltage lighting as bright as 120V?
Is low voltage lighting as bright as 120V?
Should I choose 12V under cabinet lights or 24V for my kitchen?
Should I choose 12V under cabinet lights or 24V for my kitchen?

