How to Assemble Kitchen Sink Lighting

Knowing how to assemble and install kitchen sink lighting yourself can save a lot of money over hiring a professional. It is a moderately challenging do-it-yourself project that requires some skill, the right tools and a little knowledge to get it right.

What Type Do I Need?

Kitchen sink lighting comes in quite a variety of choices in not only bulb type but in design and function as well. You can choose a linear strip of fluorescent lighting, track lighting with either halogen bulbs or CFLs (Compact Fluorescent Lights) or possibly a recessed puck light. A decorative hanging fixture might also be an excellent choice over your kitchen sink.

Space Counts

Your space limitations will also play a determining factor when choosing what type of lighting to use. Linear lights require at least a few feet across the ceiling or under a cabinet over a sink. Some modern kitchens include a “cutting” sink, a small utility sink specifically designed for cutting and washing vegetables or other food items. A small sink area may be a candidate for a single light source such as a puck light.

Determine the Focus

If the installation of your new kitchen sink light is purely functional, determine the best location for its placement. Common components that make up a lighting fixture assembly include:

• Wiring
• Base or bracket attachment to the wall or ceiling
• Switch
• Socket strip to accept wiring
• Bulb or lamp housing
• Globe or other bulb/lamp protection

Different types of light fixtures may require different assembly and installation. Fixtures such as pendant lighting have flexible arms that not only house wiring but can direct the lamp head to shine in many directions. Fixtures with dimmer switches require additional wiring. Some fixture wire directly to a power box circuit termination point while others allow a “cut in” to a local electrical outlet.

Assembly Steps for Putting Together

1. Start with examining the fixture making sure all components are present.
2. Attach wiring first in whatever appropriate manner is needed. Some require direct wiring to a breaker box by creating a separate “wire drop” through the wall or ceiling.
3. Attach the base or bracket holder.
4. Wire the fixture to the power source through the socket strip mechanism.
5. Attach the lighting fixture housing to the base or bracket.
6. Install bulbs or lamps, tighten.
7. Place protective globe or other cover over bulb or lamp assembly.

Things to Remember

Many kitchen sink lighting fixtures allow for easy snap-to assembly following the manufacturer's diagrammed instruction sheet. The easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions for pre-assembled kitchen sink light fixtures can make installation simple for even a novice. Always use the hardware provided when assembling a kitchen light fixture. Replacement parts should be obtained from the manufacturer.