I hear you on the rechargeable puck lights—they’re just not up to the task for anything more than a midnight snack run. I’ve been debating whether to go all-in with hardwired LED strips or stick with something less invasive. Has anyone had luck with the plug-in under-cabinet bars? I’m curious if they’re actually bright enough for real cooking, or if it’s just another half-measure. Old wiring makes me nervous, but tearing up walls isn’t high on my list either...
I hear you on the rechargeable puck lights—they’re just not up to the task for anything more than a midnight snack run. I’ve been debating whether to go all-in with hardwired LED strips or st...
I get the hesitation about tearing up walls—been there. I tried the plug-in bars in a rental flip once, and honestly, they surprised me. Not as seamless as hardwired, but way brighter than puck lights. Have you thought about using smart plugs to control them? That made a difference for me.
Funny you mention smart plugs—I actually use them for my under-cabinet plug-in bars, too. My house is from the 1920s, so I’m always nervous about messing with the original plaster. The plug-ins aren’t as hidden as I’d like, but being able to just say “lights on” while my hands are full is a game changer. Ever notice how the color temp on some of those bars can be a bit harsh, though? I had to try a couple brands before finding one that didn’t make my kitchen look like a hospital...
That “hospital” vibe is exactly what drove me nuts with my first set of bars.
I ended up swapping mine for a warmer 2700K model—still not perfect, but way less clinical. I’m always torn between hiding the cords and just living with them for the sake of not drilling into old walls. Have you found a good workaround for cord management that doesn’t risk damaging the plaster?Ever notice how the color temp on some of those bars can be a bit harsh, though?
