What is the cost difference between LED and fluorescent under-cabinet lighting for a NB kitchen?

LED under-cabinet lighting costs 2-3 times more upfront than fluorescent but saves significantly on energy and replacement costs over time, making it the better long-term investment for New Brunswick kitchens.

For a typical NB kitchen with 12-15 linear feet of upper cabinets, fluorescent under-cabinet lighting runs $150-$300 for basic fixtures plus installation. The fixtures themselves cost $15-25 per linear foot, but you'll need to factor in bulb replacements every 12-18 months ($8-12 per bulb) and higher energy consumption. Fluorescent lights also take time to warm up in cold NB winters and can flicker when temperatures drop.

LED under-cabinet lighting costs $300-$600 for the same kitchen coverage, with fixtures running $25-50 per linear foot. However, quality LED strips last 15-20 years without replacement and use 75% less electricity than fluorescent. In New Brunswick's climate, LEDs perform consistently regardless of temperature and provide instant full brightness — important during those dark winter mornings when you're preparing breakfast.

The energy savings add up quickly in NB where electricity rates average 12-14 cents per kWh. LED under-cabinet lighting typically uses 20-30 watts for a full kitchen versus 80-120 watts for equivalent fluorescent coverage. Over 10 years, this saves $200-400 on your NB Power bill, essentially paying for the LED upgrade.

Installation considerations for both options depend on your kitchen's electrical setup. Plug-in LED strips are perfect for DIY installation — just stick them under cabinets and plug into existing outlets. Hardwired installations require an electrician and permit in New Brunswick, adding $200-500 to either option. Many NB homeowners choose plug-in LEDs during kitchen refreshes and upgrade to hardwired during full renovations.

For New Brunswick kitchens specifically, LED is the clear winner. Our humid summers won't affect LED performance, unlike fluorescent ballasts which can fail in high humidity. The instant-on feature is valuable during power outages (common in rural NB) when using backup generators. Plus, LED strips produce minimal heat — important when you're already dealing with cooking heat during hot Maritime summers.

Most kitchen renovators in NB now recommend LED as standard. The technology has matured, prices have dropped significantly, and the 15-20 year lifespan means you'll likely never replace them. Choose warm white (2700K-3000K) for cozy kitchen ambiance or bright white (4000K) for task lighting while food prepping.

Need help finding a kitchen renovator to upgrade your lighting? New Brunswick Kitchens can match you with local contractors who specialize in kitchen electrical work and LED installations.