How to Install Above-Cabinet Lighting (page 1 of 2)
More in Kitchen
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Shut Off Electrical Output current page
- Strip Back Electrical Wiring current page
- Remove Knock-Out Flap current page
- Secure Box to Cabinet current page
- Feed Wires Through Knock-Out current page
- Staple Wiring current page
- Attach Light Fixture current page
- Lop Off Male End current page
- Connect Power Cord to Fixture page 2
- Strip Power Cord Plastic Sheath page 2
- Feed Power Cord Through Knock-Out page 2
- Connect Power Cord and Electrical Cord Wires page 2
- Lock In Connection page 2
- Tuck Wires Into Single Gang Box page 2
- Turn On Electricity page 2
Shut Off Electrical Output
To avoid serious injury, determine what breaker controls the electrical output to your kitchen and shut it off.
Strip Back Electrical Wiring
Strip back the electrical wire with a razor blade by running the razor gently down the middle of the plastic sheath coating to reveal 5 to 7 inches of wiring.
Remove Knock-Out Flap
Remove the knock-out flap on the back of the shallow single gang box with pliers.
Secure Box to Cabinet
Use a drill to secure the box to the top of the cabinets, preferably in the corner so it is out of sight.
Feed Wires Through Knock-Out
Feed the wires through the knock-out so they rest in the single gang box.
Staple Wiring
Stuff the excess wiring back into the wall. Staple the remaining wiring to the top of the cabinet for a flush finish.
Attach Light Fixture
Center the light fixture on the top of the cabinet and drill it down with a set of small screws.
Lop Off Male End
On the light fixture itself, you will see a power cord with a two-pronged male end. Take a pair of wire cutters and cut off this male end. For this project we are going to hardwire the fixture directly to the junction box.
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