Under cabinet lighting transforms a kitchen from purely functional to genuinely inviting. If someone’s been cooking under dim overhead fixtures or shadowy stovetop work, Feit under cabinet lighting offers a straightforward upgrade that cooks actually notice. Feit’s fixtures deliver bright, even illumination without breaking the budget or requiring an electrician’s help. Whether someone wants to highlight countertop workspace, add ambiance during evening meals, or simply see what they’re chopping, these lights do the job efficiently. This guide walks through what Feit offers, why these systems stand out, and how to install them correctly.
Key Takeaways
- Feit under cabinet lighting uses energy-efficient LED technology that consumes 75–80% less power than fluorescent fixtures while lasting 25,000–50,000 hours.
- Plug-in Feit under cabinet models require no hardwiring or electrician, making installation a straightforward 30-minute DIY project with just a drill and screwdriver.
- Most Feit systems include dimmable features and smartphone app controls, transforming basic task lighting into flexible mood lighting for both meal prep and dining ambiance.
- Feit LED Linkable Under Cabinet Light Bars are affordably priced between $30–50 for three-light kits, making kitchen upgrades accessible without breaking the budget.
- Proper preparation, including cleaning cabinet undersides and measuring twice before drilling, prevents installation issues like flickering and loose connections down the line.
What Is Feit Under Cabinet Lighting?
Feit under cabinet lighting refers to a line of light fixtures installed on the underside of kitchen cabinets, pointing downward to illuminate countertops and work surfaces. Feit Electric, a California-based manufacturer, has built a reputation for affordable LED and traditional lighting solutions aimed at the homeowner market rather than commercial contractors.
These systems typically come in two flavors: hardwired units that integrate into existing electrical circuits, and plug-in models that operate independently. Plug-in options are far more popular for DIY installations since they don’t require cutting into walls or installing electrical boxes. Most Feit under cabinet kits include multiple light bars, connectors, and mounting hardware, everything a person needs except a basic drill and a screwdriver.
Feit’s under cabinet range covers everything from simple fluorescent strips (less common now) to full LED systems with dimming and color-temperature control. The LED versions dominate the market because they consume less power, run cooler, and last significantly longer than older technologies.
Key Features and Benefits
Energy Efficiency and Longevity
LED technology in Feit’s modern under cabinet fixtures consumes roughly 75–80% less energy than incandescent or older halogen bulbs. A typical Feit LED bar uses 6–10 watts per unit, compared to 20–35 watts for fluorescent equivalents. Over months of use, this difference translates to noticeably lower electric bills and reduced heat output in the kitchen.
Feit LED fixtures are rated for 25,000 to 50,000 hours of operation depending on the model. That’s roughly 10–20 years if someone uses them three hours daily. No replacement bulbs to buy, no burned-out LEDs mid-cooking session, the entire fixture simply lasts. The solid-state design also means no mercury (unlike some fluorescent strips), making disposal cleaner and safer.
Easy Installation and Smart Controls
Most Feit under cabinet kits plug into a standard 120-volt outlet, eliminating the need for hardwiring. Installation is a straightforward process: measure and mark mounting points, drill pilot holes, slide the light bar into its bracket, and plug it in. The whole job typically takes 30 minutes to an hour for a standard kitchen.
Many Feit systems now include dimming capability via a simple remote control or an integrated dimmer switch. Some models pair with smartphone apps, allowing someone to adjust brightness or color temperature from across the room. These conveniences turn functional lighting into something closer to mood lighting, bright for meal prep, softer during dinner.
Popular Feit Under Cabinet Lighting Models
Feit’s current lineup includes several go-to options for different needs and budgets.
Feit LED Linkable Under Cabinet Light Bars represent the standard choice for most kitchens. These fixtures measure roughly 12 to 24 inches in length, mount flush to cabinet undersides, and connect via a simple connector system. A three-light kit typically costs between $30–50, making them one of the most affordable options on the shelf. The color temperature sits at 4000K (neutral white), which works well for task lighting without creating harsh shadows.
For those wanting a warmer aesthetic, Feit LED 3000K fixtures provide a softer, more amber tone similar to incandescent bulbs. These work particularly well in kitchens with warmer wood tones or above dining areas where people prioritize ambiance alongside visibility.
Feit Dimmable LED models add a remote control or switch-based dimmer, useful for someone who wants flexibility. These command a modest premium, typically $15–25 more than basic models, but justify the cost if the kitchen doubles as an entertaining space.
All Feit models deliver 2000–3000 lumens per fixture, sufficient for standard countertop tasks. For larger islands or extensive countertop runs, linking multiple units in series handles the job without expensive rewiring.
Installation Tips and Best Practices
Preparation is everything. Before drilling a single hole, wipe down the cabinet underside with a damp cloth and let it dry completely. Dust, grease, or moisture prevent mounting brackets from adhering properly and can cause flickering or loose connections down the line.
Measure twice, mark once. Use a tape measure and pencil to locate mounting points, accounting for any electrical outlets or cabinet geometry that might interfere. Most people space light bars 12 inches apart for even coverage, but wider spacing works if budget is tight, gaps in coverage are less noticeable than someone might think.
Drill pilot holes at marked points using a drill bit slightly smaller than the mounting screw diameter. This prevents wood splitting and makes screw installation easier. Wear safety glasses during drilling: debris flies upward, and eyes need protection.
Slide the light bar bracket into place and fasten with the included screws. Don’t overtighten, snug is fine, but stripped wood doesn’t grip well. Connect bars using the provided connectors, following the polarity markings (positive to positive, negative to negative). Most kits use simple push-connectors that click audibly when seated correctly.
Plug the system into a nearby 120-volt outlet. If no outlet exists directly above or beside the cabinets, run a power cord along the backsplash or cabinet side toward the nearest accessible outlet. Tape the cord flush against the surface to keep it out of sight and prevent tripping hazards. Some installers hide cords behind the cabinet trim or run them down to a power strip positioned out of view.
Test each light bar individually before finalizing placement. A failed LED bar caught before full installation beats discovering a bad unit days later. Allow the system to run for 15 minutes to confirm no excessive heat buildup or flickering.
Conclusion
Feit under cabinet lighting delivers practical illumination at a price point that makes kitchen upgrades accessible. The combination of LED efficiency, simple plug-and-play installation, and dimmable controls addresses the core frustrations most home cooks face, poor task lighting, complicated electrical work, and ongoing replacement bulb costs. A person spending a Saturday afternoon installing these fixtures gains years of better visibility and a kitchen that genuinely works harder for their cooking routine.