Friday, May 20, 2016

Surpahs Set of 3 Warm Light LED Under Cabinet Lighting Kit



WHAT'S INCLUDED?
Three 2-watt LED Lights (with brackets and screws), power cord, and two bonus extension cords measuring 24"

VIDEO CONTENTS:
A quick look at the lights after installation and some installation tips

BRIEF INTRO:
The LED lights have two settings of brightness. The lights are 3000K in color temperature. Basically, that means they give off a warm, white light. For comparison, as you move up the scale in color temperature (say 5000K), the color beings to turn to a cool, blue light. I much prefer warm white light, which is one reason why I ordered these. These lights come with two 24" extension cords should you have long runs to make between the lights.

INSTALLATION:
To install, you will first need to figure out where the lights work best. Oftentimes, these are at the front of the underside of the cabinets. I know it's tempting to place them in the middle of the underside of the cabinets, but you want to make sure the light is centered on the counter top, not the cabinets where they are hung. Now that you figured out where you want them, place the bracket there and market the two holes where the screws will go. The instructions don't state what size drill bit to use. I recommend using a 3/32" drill bit. I also recommend placing masking tap on the drill bit to indicate how deep to go, so you don't needlessly drill through the cabinet (see the video for clarification if needed).

Once the holes are drilled, screw in the base of the LED lights about half-way. Then insert the LED light and slide the cords through the slots. Finish screwing the base in and pull any slack in the cords. When it's the lights are secured, you can plug the lights in. I used Gorilla tape to secure the cords. Feel free to use whatever you like, but make sure the tape has sufficient stickiness to secure the cords.

PROS:
+ Low energy consumption (total of 6W)
+ The kit contains a couple bonus extension cords (each 24")
+ Good color temperature (3000K)
+ Bright
+ The finished product looks great (in my opinion) in the kitchen
+ Doesn't get hot to the touch
+ Can connect multiple sets or use as few lights as you want
+ All the lights come on at once rather than one at a time (like when using battery puck lights)

CONS:
- The two settings of brightness are different, but not by much.
- I'd like to see a better method included in the kit for securing the cord and switch than using tape (not provided)

CONCLUSION:
I really like the final product after installing these lights. Installation wasn't too bad, particularly if you take my suggestions into account. The hardest part of installation is keeping those little screws on the screwdriver before driving them into the cabinets! The lights provide ample task lighting and look very professional. I really like them. I have a couple suggestions for improvements though. I would like to see a low light setting. The two settings are more in the 1.) moderate and 2.) moderately bright category for under cabinet lighting. Not a major gripe with the brightness though. The other thing I would like to see is better, or more professional, method of securing the cable and switch. I think this would really be nice. It's definitely not a deal breaker though. As I mentioned, I am very pleased with the lights!

Available on Amazon at http://amzn.to/1NBi6EJ

FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION (FTC) DISCLAIMER:
I received this product for free. However, the opinions expressed herein were formulated based on my personal use of the product. I welcome all suggestions, feedback and/or product questions!

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