Black & Decker LED Under Cabinet Lighting Accessory Light, Cool White, 9"

When it comes to enhancing the aesthetic and functionality of your kitchen, bathroom, or closet, the LED Under Cabinet Lighting by Black & Decker offers a compelling option. This 9-inch light bar, model LEDUC9-1C, promises to seamlessly integrate into existing under cabinet lighting systems with its ultra-slim, linkable design. With a cool white light temperature of 4000 Kelvin, this accessory light aims to provide both practical and visually pleasing illumination.

First Impressions

Out of the box, the LED light bar feels sturdy and well-constructed. It comes with all the necessary components for installation: the light bar itself, mounting clips, and jumper wires. The light bar's slim profile is a notable feature, making it easy to hide under cabinets or shelves without drawing attention to itself.

Installation Experience

The installation process is one of the highlights of this product. Unlike many other under cabinet lights that require a slew of tools and a significant amount of time to install, this model is designed for a quick setup. The package includes mounting clips that make it easy to secure the light bar in place. While the manufacturer claims that no tools are required, I found that a drill might be necessary for a more secure installation, especially if you’re mounting it on a hard surface like wood or tile.

Features and Usability

One of the standout features of this light bar is its motion sensor, which allows for hands-free operation. This is particularly useful in kitchen settings where your hands might be occupied. The sensor is responsive and turns the light on almost instantaneously, adding a layer of convenience.

The light bar also offers ten brightness levels, which can be adjusted to suit different lighting needs. Whether you need bright illumination for cooking or a softer glow for a relaxed ambiance, this light bar has you covered. The light produced is a cool white, with a color temperature of 4000 Kelvin, providing a crisp and clean look that enhances the appearance of your countertops and cabinets.

Another useful feature is the optional three-hour timer, which automatically shuts off the light after a set period. This is ideal for those who might forget to turn off the lights, adding an energy-saving benefit.

Performance

In terms of performance, the light bar delivers as promised. It produces 380 lumens, which is more than sufficient for most under cabinet applications. The light is evenly distributed, thanks to its energy-efficient LEDs that have a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours. Over the period I used it, the light remained consistent without any noticeable dimming.

However, it's worth noting that one of the units I tested developed a slight humming noise after a few days of use. This was somewhat distracting and detracted from the overall experience. While this could be an isolated issue, it’s something to be aware of.

Practical Applications

This light bar is incredibly versatile. In the kitchen, it provides ample light for meal prep and cooking, making it easier to see what you’re doing. In a bathroom setting, it offers additional lighting for tasks like shaving or applying makeup. In closets, it makes it easier to find your clothes and accessories, especially in poorly lit areas.

The linkable design allows you to connect multiple light bars together, creating a cohesive lighting system. This is particularly useful for larger spaces where one light bar might not be sufficient. The jumper wires included in the package make it easy to connect multiple units without any hassle.

Energy Efficiency

One of the key benefits of this light bar is its energy efficiency. The LEDs consume less power compared to traditional incandescent or fluorescent lights, which can lead to significant energy savings over time. The long lifespan of the LEDs also means you won’t have to worry about frequent replacements, adding to the cost-effectiveness of this product.

Final Thoughts

Overall, the LED Under Cabinet Lighting by Black & Decker is a solid choice for anyone looking to enhance their under cabinet lighting. Its easy installation, adjustable brightness levels, and motion sensor make it a versatile and user-friendly option. The cool white light temperature provides a clean and modern look, while the energy-efficient LEDs ensure long-term performance.

However, the humming noise issue I encountered is a slight drawback and something to consider. It’s possible that this was an isolated defect, but it did impact my overall experience.

Recommendation

Would I recommend this product? Yes, with a few caveats. If you’re looking for an easy-to-install, versatile under cabinet light that offers a range of brightness levels and hands-free operation, this product is worth considering. The energy efficiency and long lifespan of the LEDs add to its appeal. However, if you’re particularly sensitive to noise, you might want to test the unit first to ensure it doesn’t develop a humming sound over time.

In summary, the Black & Decker LED Under Cabinet Light is a strong contender in the realm of under cabinet lighting, offering a blend of functionality, convenience, and efficiency. Just keep an ear out for that potential humming noise.