Introduction
Kitchen lighting is an important element that can make or break the look and functionality of your kitchen. Under cabinet lighting is a popular choice to provide task lighting over countertops and illuminate work areas. Fluorescent lighting used to be the go-to option for under cabinet installation due to its high efficiency and brightness. However, with advancements in LED technology, LED under cabinet lighting has become the preferable choice.
If you have an older kitchen with under cabinet fluorescent lighting installed, you may need to access or replace the fixtures at some point. This can present some challenges if your kitchen has metal cabinets, as the solid cabinet construction can make it difficult to remove and access the wiring and fixture housing. In this article, we’ll discuss some tips and methods for getting at an under cabinet fluorescent fixture in St. Charles kitchen metal cabinets.
Turn Off Power at the Breaker
The first and most important step is to shut off power to the fluorescent fixture at the main breaker panel. Fluorescent light fixtures have ballasts that can continue to hold a charge even when the light is switched off. To prevent shock, ensure the power is disconnected at the breaker before attempting any work on the fixture.
Locate the correct breaker and turn it to the full “Off” position. To be safe, you can also turn off the main breaker switch that controls all the power to the kitchen. Test the fixture by flipping the switch to make sure the power is cut.
Once you verify the power is off, you can proceed to the next steps for access. Take caution even with the power off, and never touch any wiring without first testing with a non-contact voltage tester.
Remove Bulbs, Lens Cover and Ballast Cover
With the power supply disconnected, you can now remove any fluorescent tubes or bulbs from the fixture housing. Fluorescent bulbs can contain mercury, so handle them carefully and dispose of properly.
Next, remove any lens cover that is over the bulbs. This may involve unscrewing a couple fasteners or popping off a plastic cover. Check for any clips or edges that need releasing.
Underneath the lens cover, there will be a ballast box that controls the lamp fixture. The ballast box also has a removable cover that you need to take off to expose the wiring and interior of the fixture housing. The cover may be held on with screws or snapped into place.
As you remove components, set them aside carefully to reinstall later. Be observant of small hardware or parts that can get lost.
Disconnect Wiring to Ballast and Lamp Sockets
Once you have access to the fixture interior, you can begin disconnecting the wiring to fully remove the ballast box and mounting frame.
Fluorescent light ballasts have input wires for the power supply, and output wires running to the lamp sockets. Carefully disconnect the wiring from both ends of the ballast. The socket wires may be push-in connectors or screw terminals.
Also disconnect the lamp socket wiring from the tombstones or receptacles at each end. again, use caution not to touch any wires at this stage before testing.
Make note of wire colors and connections to properly reconnect later. You may want to take photos for reference as you go along.
Release Mounting Frame from Cabinet
With all wiring detached, the ballast assembly and lamp mounting frame should now be ready to be removed. This usually involves loosening screws or releasing brackets along the top or back that hold it to the cabinet.
Slide any mounting brackets out from slots or openings. Try not to force anything loose – look for clips or fastener points that need releasing.
For metal cabinets, the frame is likely secured directly to the metal with screws through the back. The screw heads may be recessed or difficult to access, so have the right screwdriver ready. Applying upward pressure as you loosen screws can help release the frame.
Access Interior of Fluorescent Fixture Housing
Once released, the entire fluorescent fixture assembly should detach from the cabinet frame. Maneuver it carefully out through the cabinet opening, keeping wires clear.
This will now expose the interior housing where the ballast and lamps were mounted. You may need to reach up inside to access wiring, electrical boxes or other components in the fixture housing.
Use a flashlight to illuminate the space. With the cabinet opening cleared, you will have better access for any necessary repairs or replacements.
Be very careful not to contact any wires inside the housing until power is confirmed disconnected with a voltage tester. Never reach hands into an area that may contain live power.
Replace or Service Fixture and Reinstall
With the fixture housing accessible, you can now proceed with any necessary service or replacement. Some possibilities include:
- Replacing faulty wiring or electrical components
- Upgrading from fluorescent to LED lighting
- Cleaning accumulated dust and debris
- Installing new mounting brackets or hardware
For a complete ballast and lamp replacement, remove the old mounting frame entirely and install a new LED under cabinet fixture. Follow manufacturer instructions to securely mount the new fixture housing into the cabinet opening.
LED under cabinet lighting runs on low voltage DC power and does not require a ballast. The wiring is simpler and lighter than fluorescent fixtures.
When ready to reinstall the serviced or new fixture, carefully fed the wiring back through the openings as you insert the housing frame into position. Reattach all the mounting screws or brackets securely.
Refer to the photos taken earlier to properly reconnect the wiring. Attach the lamp sockets, ballast (if still applicable) and power supply wires correctly. Reinstall any covers once everything is properly wired and mounted.
Restore Power and Test Operation
Once fully reassembled, you can restore power to the fixture circuit at the breaker box. Flip the switch to test for proper operation. Verify that all lamps and LEDs illuminate as expected.
Check for any buzzing ballasts or humming fixtures that may indicate a wiring fault. Make any final adjustments to straighten or balance the mounted frame.
Finally, reinstall any remaining lens covers, diffusers, or tubes. Snap covers back into place and screw any retainers back on. The under cabinet lighting can now be used again with full access to the interior housing.
Proper access to the fixture housing is key for installation and repairs. With the right techniques and safety precautions, you can successfully get at an under cabinet fluorescent light even in confined metal cabinet spaces. Take care when working around electrical systems and call a professional electrician if any wiring appears unsafe or faulty. With improved lighting refreshed, you can get better visibility for kitchen tasks!
FAQs About Accessing Under Cabinet Fluorescent Fixtures in Metal Kitchen Cabinets
Q: How can I remove the fixture housing if it is recessed into the cabinet?
A: You may need to remove some of the cabinet trim or framework to extract a recessed fixture. Take off molding strips or unscrew cabinet stile pieces to get access behind them. Use care not to damage cabinet finish.
Q: Do I need to fully remove the metal cabinet to access the fixture?
A: In most cases, no – you can keep the cabinet in place. Once wiring is detached, the fixture can usually be maneuvered out through the installed opening. But removal may be easiest in some situations.
Q: The screws to the mounting bracket are stuck, what can help loosen them?
A: Apply lubricant like WD-40 to the screw head and let it penetrate for 5-10 minutes. Firmly press the screwdriver into the head and turn slowly but firmly as you pull up on the frame.
Q: How do I ensure no wires get pinched when reinstalling the fixture?
A: Keep wires pulled back from the frame edges as you position the housing. Insert wiring through openings first before mounting the fixture to avoid pinching. Use wire ties or tape to bundle wires if needed.
Q: Can I replace fluorescent under cabinet lighting with LED tape lighting?
A: Yes, LED tape lighting can provide good under cabinet illumination. It adheres directly to cabinet surfaces without needing a housing. Connect to 12V DC power supply.
Q: The fixture no longer works after reinstalling, what should I check?
A: Verify all wiring connections are solid and that polarity is correct. Check the circuit breaker powering the fixture. Test for voltage entering the fixture when switched on.
Q: Do I need to call an electrician for under cabinet fluorescent fixture work?
A: If you are comfortable working with electrical wiring, you can DIY it. But for large repairs or complications, hiring a qualified electrician is recommended for safety.
Conclusion
Under cabinet fluorescent lights can be tricky to access when installed in solid metal kitchen cabinets. But with some carefully removal of components and disconnection of wiring, you can detach the fixture housing for service. Always exercise extreme caution when working around electrical systems. Follow safety procedures and turn off power at the breaker before proceeding. With attention to detail during reinstallation you can restore proper function of the lighting. Consider upgrading older fluorescent fixtures to modern, efficient LED lighting. With the right techniques, you can successfully upgrade under cabinet lighting in your St. Charles metal kitchen cabinets.