Considering a switch to LEDs for your kitchen? <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While LEDs are a great option in general, you do have to be careful of where you place them! <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In general, regular LED strip lights pose a bit of a risk when used in kitchens \u2014 and especially over stoves \u2014 due to the potential for damage and fire hazards. However, that\u2019s not to say you should steer clear of LED strips in the kitchen at all costs!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Want to know more about using LED strip lights in your cooking area? Read on to learn more about:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Let\u2019s get into it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Generally, the answer is no! LED strip lights can\u2019t be placed too close to the hob as this can expose them to a lot of potential damage.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n However, if you position your lights sufficiently far away and check the manufacturer\u2019s guide, LED lights over the stove can still be a viable option.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n LED strip lights over the stove are usually not a great idea! There are just so many things that can go wrong with this placement, as well as factors that can generally diminish the quality of your lighting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Stoves, especially gas varieties, will damage regular LED strip lights over time. This is because LED lights produce so little heat themselves (less than half the heat produced by some older bulb types) that they aren\u2019t designed to cope with high temperatures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With this design limitation in mind, exposing LEDs to high-heat environments will cause them to fade or have a shortened lifespan. Additionally, the shape and proximity of strip lights mean they\u2019re at a higher risk of experiencing damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n LED lights as a whole are a safer alternative to traditional bulbs, but there are some cases where they can\u2019t and shouldn\u2019t be used. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If LED lights are placed in high-temperature areas such as the stove, then their wiring (which isn\u2019t designed for heat) could become overloaded and start to overheat \u2014 potentially starting a fire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The heat from the stove will damage the internal components of the LEDs, which will result in the LEDs gradually producing less light. Steam from the stove can also find its way into the strip lights, further dimming them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n As your LED lights become exposed to grease buildup from the stove, they\u2019ll suffer damage over time. It\u2019s difficult to clean these lights \u2014 and if done incorrectly, you could end up doing more harm than good!<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want to light up your cooking spot, why not look into other alternatives? There are plenty of great options for kitchen lighting other than LEDs, with some having the ability to elevate the overall aesthetics of the area!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Extractor fan lights are one of the most popular options for over-the-stove lighting. They extract steam and other odors, replacing it with fresh air and improving your home air circulation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Extraction fans also typically have lights that are kept cool and regulated, reducing the risk of overheating and other fire hazards. This also means they\u2019ll last longer!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Want to save on space while also having a clear, focused light that\u2019s perfect for cooking? If so, look into getting recessed kitchen lighting! <\/p>\n\n\n\n These compact lights are comfortably snug in the ceiling so they won\u2019t get in the way of your cooking. While they require a bit more planning to fit in, they\u2019re generally easier to clean in the long term. If space efficiency is a priority, be sure to check this option out!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s another option for improving kitchen aesthetics without too much fuss: pendant lights! These effortlessly provide accent and character to your cooking area, and they\u2019re also popular for being easy to change. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Here\u2019s something to keep in mind, however \u2014 the detrimental effect of heat on pendant lights means they aren\u2019t a viable option directly over the stove.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you want a spotlight on your cooking (literally<\/em>!), track lighting is another fantastic option. Aside from being ideal for illuminating larger spaces, these are also fantastic for highlighting select areas of your kitchen and creating a soft and warm ambiance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, just like pendant lights, track lighting isn\u2019t as practical as a lighting option directly above your stove. That\u2019s because it can\u2019t tolerate being too close to heat!<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re determined to use LED strip lights, here are ways you can make the most out of them:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Using an LED controller can give you more freedom with your lighting as it provides you with plenty of room for creativity and flexibility. <\/p>\n\n\n\n When you need to adjust your lighting to suit your needs, it\u2019s often safer and more efficient to control your LED than placing one directly over the stovetop!<\/p>\n\n\n\n As with any use of LED lighting, you need to install these lights correctly. This is particularly important for high-risk areas, such as those over the stove.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You need to be conscious of the type of LED you are buying, having the right ventilation and the correct wattage, and confirming that it\u2019s a safe distance away. There\u2019s a lot to consider when making these decisions, but due to LED lights\u2019 long lifespan, it\u2019s worth taking the time to get it right.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Regular cleaning and maintenance is essential for any LED lighting, but even more so over the stovetop! Grease and steam buildup is very capable of damaging the lights and causing premature failure. <\/p>\n\n\n\nReasons Why You Shouldn\u2019t Put LED Strip Lights Over Your Stove<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Risk of Damage<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Fire Hazard<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Dimming of Lights<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Grease Buildup<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Alternative Lighting Options for over the Stove<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Extractor Fan Lights<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Recessed Kitchen Lighting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Pendant Lights<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Track Lighting<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Kitchen LED Strip Lighting<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Use a Remote Control<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Proper Installation and Placement<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n