Black & Decker 1-Bar LED Under Cabinet Lighting Kit, Cool White, 18”

Installing under-cabinet lighting can significantly enhance the functionality and aesthetics of your kitchen, bathroom, or workspace. Recently, I had the opportunity to try out the Black & Decker 1-Bar LED Under Cabinet Lighting Kit, Cool White, 18” (Model LEDUC18-1CK). This slim, efficient, and easy-to-install lighting solution promised to bring a new level of convenience and brightness to my space. Here’s my detailed review based on my hands-on experience.

Installation

The installation process of the Black & Decker LED light bar was remarkably straightforward. True to its claim, I did not require any tools, which was a huge plus. The light bar comes with foam adhesive backing for a peel-and-stick application, making it perfect for those who aren’t particularly handy or simply want a quick setup. Before applying the adhesive, I made sure to clean the mounting surface thoroughly to ensure a strong bond.

In addition to the adhesive, the kit includes mounting clips, providing an option for a more secure installation. I found the adhesive sufficient for my needs, but if you’re installing this above a stove or on a rough surface, the mounting clips might be a better choice to prevent any potential slippage due to grease or texture.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the LED light bar is incredibly sleek and ultra-thin. Measuring just 18 inches in length, with a height of 0.375 inches and a width of 0.75 inches, it fits snugly under the cabinet without taking up much space. The light bar is lightweight, weighing only 12.1 lbs, which further simplifies the installation process.

Another noteworthy feature is the linkable design, allowing you to connect up to two 18-inch light bars. This is particularly useful for larger spaces where a single light bar might not suffice. The power cord can be concealed easily, although the plug is somewhat bulky at about 2 by 3 inches. Despite this minor drawback, the overall build quality feels robust and durable.

Lighting Performance

The Black & Decker LED light bar boasts 780 lumens per bar, providing ample brightness for any task. With a color temperature of 4000K, the light emitted is a cool white, which is more on the industrial side. While this might not create a cozy, ambient atmosphere, it excels in delivering bright, functional lighting. This makes it perfect for tasks that require good visibility, such as cooking, reading recipes, or working on detailed projects.

One of the standout features is the motion sensor, which allows for hands-free operation. A simple wave of the hand turns the light on or off, which is incredibly convenient when your hands are dirty or full. The sensor is highly responsive and worked flawlessly during my testing.

Another useful feature is the ability to adjust the brightness. The light bar offers ten different brightness levels, accessible via a button on the unit. This feature allows you to customize the lighting to suit different needs and preferences, whether you need full brightness for chopping vegetables or a dimmer light for a softer glow.

Energy Efficiency and Longevity

LED technology is known for its energy efficiency, and this light bar is no exception. With a wattage of just 10.5 per bar, it consumes minimal energy while delivering maximum brightness. This not only helps reduce your electricity bill but also makes it an environmentally friendly choice.

The LEDs are long-lasting, which means you won’t have to worry about frequent replacements. This adds to the overall value of the product, making it a cost-effective solution in the long run.

Additional Features

The light bar comes with an optional three-hour timer for automatic shutoff. This feature is particularly useful if you tend to forget to turn off the lights, as it ensures the light won’t stay on indefinitely, further conserving energy.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
- Easy Installation: Tool-free setup with adhesive backing and mounting clips.
- Slim Design: Ultra-thin and lightweight, fits discreetly under cabinets.
- Bright and Adjustable: 780 lumens with ten brightness levels.
- Motion Sensor: Hands-free operation with a responsive sensor.
- Energy Efficient: Low wattage and long-lasting LEDs.
- Linkable: Connect up to two light bars for larger spaces.

Cons:
- Cool White Light: The 4000K color temperature might be too industrial for some.
- Bulky Plug: The power adapter is somewhat large and may be difficult to conceal completely.

Conclusion

After using the Black & Decker 1-Bar LED Under Cabinet Lighting Kit, I can confidently say that it’s a highly effective and user-friendly lighting solution. The ease of installation, combined with the bright, adjustable light and convenient motion sensor, make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their under-cabinet lighting.

While the cool white light might not be to everyone’s taste, it excels in providing clear, functional illumination for tasks. The energy efficiency and long lifespan of the LEDs further add to its appeal, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

I would highly recommend this LED light bar to anyone in need of a reliable, easy-to-install under-cabinet lighting solution. Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen, illuminating a workspace, or adding light to a pantry, this product delivers on its promises and more.