How To Remove Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting

How to Remove Hardwired Under Cabinet Lighting

Under cabinet lighting can significantly enhance a kitchen's functionality and aesthetics. However, there may come a time when you need to remove the hardwired lighting for various reasons, such as a kitchen renovation, a change in lighting preference, or a malfunctioning fixture. This guide provides a step-by-step process on how to safely and efficiently remove hardwired under cabinet lighting.

1. Safety First: Power Disconnection

Before starting the removal process, it is crucial to disconnect the power supply to the under cabinet lighting fixture. This is essential to prevent electrical shocks and ensure your safety. Follow these steps to safely disconnect the power:

Locate the Circuit Breaker: Find the circuit breaker that controls the under cabinet lighting. You can usually find this information on the circuit breaker panel, often labeled with room names or appliance designations.
Turn Off the Circuit: Turn off the circuit breaker that corresponds to the under cabinet lighting. To confirm the power is off, test the fixture with a non-contact voltage detector.
Double-Check: Ensure the power is truly off by testing the fixture using a non-contact voltage detector. This will confirm that the circuit is de-energized and ready for removal.

2. Accessing the Fixture: Removing the Cover

Once the power is off, you can start accessing the fixture by removing the cover. The removal process may vary depending on the fixture design, but the following steps are generally applicable:

Locate the Release Mechanism: Most under cabinet lighting fixtures have a release mechanism on the cover. This could be a small button, a lever, or a clip. Look for any visible release points.
Gently Release the Cover: Once you locate the release mechanism, carefully press, pull, or slide it to release the cover. Some fixtures may require you to gently pry the cover off with a flat-head screwdriver.
Remove the Cover: Once the cover is released, it should easily come off the fixture. Carefully remove it and set it aside.

3. Disconnecting the Wiring

With the cover removed, you can now disconnect the wiring connecting the fixture to the electrical system. This involves carefully detaching the wires from the fixture and the junction box. Pay close attention to the wire colors and ensure you disconnect the correct wires.

Identify the Wires: Under cabinet lighting typically uses two wires, a black (hot) wire and a white (neutral) wire. There might also be a ground wire, usually green or bare copper.
Loosen the Wire Connections: Carefully loosen the screws or wire nuts holding the wires to the terminal strips on the fixture or the junction box.
Disconnect the Wires: Gently pull the wires out of the terminal strips. Ensure you detach the wires from both the fixture and the junction box.

4. Removing the Fixture: Detaching It From the Cabinet

Once the wiring is disconnected, remove the fixture from the cabinet. The fixture may be attached using screws, clips, or adhesive tape. Depending on the installation, you may need to perform the following steps:

Remove Screws or Clips: If the fixture is attached with screws or clips, carefully remove them. Be cautious not to damage the cabinet.
Carefully Peel Off Adhesive Tape: If the fixture is attached with adhesive tape, gently peel it off. Ensure you don't leave any adhesive residue behind.
Detach the Fixture: Once the screws, clips, or tape are removed, carefully detach the fixture from the cabinet surface.

5. Cleaning and Finishing

After removing the fixture, clean the area where the fixture was installed. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dust or debris. If you used adhesive tape, use a cleaning solution to remove any remaining residue. You can now dispose of or store the removed fixture according to your preferences.

Remember to turn the circuit breaker back on after completing the removal process. This will restore power to the kitchen and allow you to use other electrical appliances.