You’ve got the vision. Now all you need is someone to install the lighting and bring it to life. But as it turns out, finding the right installer is where things get tricky.
Under-cabinet lighting may seem like a minor upgrade, until it isn’t. When done right, it transforms a dim kitchen into a bright, welcoming space that works the way you need it to. However, when corners are cut, even a minor installation can result in flickering bulbs, damaged cabinets, tangled wires, or worse.
We’ve seen too many homeowners surprised by how fast a “simple job” can turn into a headache. At Integra Electrical, we’ve fixed jobs that were rushed, rigged, or done without regard for safety or code. This article will help you
- What are the issues with bad installation
- What to consider when hiring
- What a quality installation looks like
- The questions we get asked about under-cabinet lighting installation
The issues with bad under-cabinet lighting Installation
Under-cabinet lighting can make your kitchen look brighter, newer, and more custom. But if it’s not installed with care, the problems tend to show up fast, and not always in ways you’d expect.
We’ve been called in to fix plenty of jobs that looked fine at first but caused headaches down the road. Here are some of the most common issues we see:
- Flickering or buzzing lights – usually from the wrong type of dimmer or a sloppy connection
- Lights that fall off or shift – cheap tape, poor placement, or fixtures that weren’t secured properly
- Visible wires and holes - when the installer doesn’t take the time to hide the wiring cleanly
- Lights that won’t turn on, or won’t turn off – bad switch placement or incorrect wiring
- Cabinets damaged during installation – unnecessary holes, cracked trim, or mounting errors
- Overloaded circuits – when new lights are added to a circuit that’s already maxed out
If the person doing the job doesn’t specialize in lighting installation, it’s easy to miss the details that make the difference between “wow” and “uh-oh.”
The Problem Isn’t Just Aesthetic
Some lighting jobs look clean on the outside, but hide dangerous shortcuts behind the wall. And unfortunately, many homeowners don’t realize there’s a problem until something stops working… or worse, something starts sparking.
We’ve seen kitchen lights that caused breakers to trip every time the microwave ran. Why? Because they were added to a circuit that was already overloaded.
That’s the risk when an installer skips the planning and goes straight to the finish. Without checking your panel, knowing your wiring layout, or following the right safety steps, even a small lighting upgrade can lead to bigger electrical issues.
If your panel is older or already maxed out, just adding more lights can create ongoing problems. That’s why we always check the load and wiring during any circuit breaker repair or upgrade, and the same care applies when installing new lighting.
Because when something seems “off” with your lights, the problem isn’t always the lights themselves.
What to Consider When Hiring a Contractor
It’s tempting to hire the first person who says they can do the job. And with something like under-cabinet lighting, many homeowners assume a handyman, contractor, or even a friend who’s “good with tools” can handle it.
But there’s a difference between someone who can install lights and someone who knows how to do it safely, cleanly, and up to code.
Here’s what to consider:
- Handyman services may be affordable and quick, but often lack electrical licensing. That means no permits, no inspections, and no guarantee they’re following safety guidelines.
- General contractors are great for remodels, but might subcontract the electrical work to someone you’ve never met and who may be in a hurry to get to the next job.
- Licensed electricians know the ins and outs of your home’s electrical system. They understand how new lighting interacts with your panel, wiring, and switches and they’ll make sure everything is safe, compatible, and professionally installed.
If you’re unsure what questions to ask, this guide on how to choose an electrician walks you through licensing, insurance, experience, and what to look for in a contract.
What a Quality Installation Looks Like
When the job is done right, the lights don’t just look good, they work the way they should, every time you flip the switch. No flickering. No guesswork. No mess.
Here’s what a professional installation process looks like:
- Planning first. A licensed electrician will talk through your goals, check your panel, and figure out the best layout for both light and wiring.
- Clean, concealed wiring. Wires are run discreetly through walls, backsplashes, or cabinetry, not stapled along the surface or hidden behind caulk.
- Fixtures that match your setup. Whether you’re using LED strips, puck lights, or linear bars, the right installer will make sure the lights are compatible with your switch type, dimmers, or smart controls.
- Tested and safe. Every connection is double-checked, and the system is tested before anyone leaves the house.
- Code-compliant. A great electrician knows and follows the latest standards, so you never have to worry about future inspection issues or hidden risks
When the work is done with care, the results feel effortless, and they last.
When It’s Done Right, You Don’t Have to Think About It
Under-cabinet lighting isn’t just about looks; it’s about creating a space that works better for you. When installed with care, it adds comfort, safety, and beauty to your everyday life. And when it’s done poorly? You’re left dealing with problems you didn’t ask for.
That’s why who you hire matters. A qualified installer will treat your home with respect, walk you through your options, and make sure every detail is done right the first time.
If you’re planning a project and wondering what to expect, you might find this breakdown of how much under-cabinet lighting really costs helpful. It’s a good place to start before reaching out, and it can help you plan with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install under-cabinet lighting myself?
It’s possible, but we strongly recommend against it. What seems like a small job can quickly turn into a safety risk if wires are overloaded, connections are made improperly, or the wrong dimmer is used. Under-cabinet lighting involves electrical knowledge, proper circuit planning, and clean finish work, things best left to a licensed electrician.
Do I need a permit for under-cabinet lighting?
Sometimes. It depends on how the wiring is done and your local code requirements. A licensed electrician will know if a permit or inspection is required and handle it for you.
Will the installation damage my cabinets?
Not if it's done professionally. We take care to protect your finishes and use clean, low-impact methods that preserve the look of your kitchen.
Can I connect my under-cabinet lights to a dimmer or smart switch?
Yes, and we’ll make sure everything is compatible. Not all lights and switches play well together, so it’s important to choose the right combination from the start.
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