Kitchen Renovation — FAQ
Do under cabinet lights work on dark cabinets?
Yes, but magnetic mounts may require steel backing plates on wood. Dark surfaces absorb 15-20% more light—compensate with 10-15% higher lumen output. Avoid glossy finishes that create glare.
How many lumens do I need per foot of countertop?
Aim for 300-500 lumens per linear foot for task lighting. Our tests show 400 lumens/ft provides optimal visibility without harsh shadows for most kitchen layouts and ceiling heights.
Can I mix different brands of under cabinet lights?
Not recommended—color temperature variances create visible patches. If expanding later, buy identical models. Some brands like Gritin offer master-slave pairing for seamless multi-unit setups.
Why does my motion sensor light turn off during cooking?
Slow movements (like chopping) may not trigger sensors. Adjust sensitivity to medium-high and set delay to 30+ seconds. Test with your typical prep motions before final mounting.
Are rechargeable lights safe above stoves?
Only if rated for 140°F+ environments. Most use lithium-ion batteries that degrade above 122°F (50°C). Maintain 18+ inches clearance from cooking surfaces or choose plug-in models for stove zones.
How do I prevent light gaps between multiple units?
Overlap units by 0.5" during installation and select models with uniform beam edges (tested via shadow analysis). Gritin's 14.7" units minimize gaps better than 10" alternatives.
