Puck Lights

One of the most unique forms of lighting to come into the kitchen in the past few years is under-the-cabinet illumination or "puck" light system. This is so named because the light pots are the shape and somewhat the size of hockey pucks. They are low-voltage lights which daisy-chain together and can be controlled singly or in groups but most people prefer the latter.

Puck lights can be surface mounted out-of-sight under the edge of the cabinet or recessed in which is the preferred way for china cabinets and the like.

There are two main types: Halogen and Xenon. The xenon is more expensive (the bulbs are around $5 compared with $2 for halogen) but they last 5 times as long.

You can get them in 120 volt, which is easier for the DIYer or the 12 volt with a transformer. Pucks with the 120 volt system can be plugged into each other in up to 10 units. The 12 volt system requires a transformer and special connectors. When you catch on to it the system makes it more flexible to expand.

Both systems are perfect for inside the cabinets as well. These are triggered when the door opens, like a fridge. As well, they are very cost effective and use less electricity than incandescent bulbs.