Track
lights are adjustable fixtures that are plugged into pre-wired channel-like
devices, called tracks, which install on a ceiling. Use track lighting
to highlight a family portrait, a work of art, a piece of furniture,
or any other object.
Track
lighting is not recommended over a chair, couch, or bed to read
by, or over a desk or countertop to work by. The light given off
by one fixture is only 50 watts or less, which is not sufficient
for reading or close work. If using track lighting in such situations,
increase the light output by grouping two or more fixtures on a
track and aiming beams directly at the reading or work area.
SELECTING
A KIT:
A track lighting kit normally includes the track, end cap, cover
plate, fixtures(s), and toggle bolts. Consider the following before
purchasing a kit:
- Electric
components should bear the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) mark
of certification.
- Select
a kit that provides a sufficiently long track to permit the installation
of the desired number of fixtures. Tracks come in lengths of 2',
4', and 8' (12' by special order). Without crowding fixtures,
one can be placed every 12".
- If
you are installing more than one track in a room and want to interconnect
them, find out if the manufacturer of the kit offers fittings
for the desired straight, L-, T-, or X-shaped configuration.
Fixtures
are marked to accept 25-, 40-, or 50-watt incandescent bulbs. Exceeding
the specifications can cause damage to a fixture. By wiring a 60-watt,
12-volt transformer between the 120-volt household circuit and the
track, it is possible to convert a track system to operate on 12
volts and use low-wattage tungsten-halogen bulbs. Although the beam
spread of a low-wattage tungsten-halogen bulb is very narrow, the
light is intense enough to read by.
INSTALLATION
CHOICES:
There are three installation options:
- If
there is an existing ceiling fixture or chandelier where the track
will be hung, first turn off the power. Then take down the fixture
or chandelier, install the track, and connect it to the wires
left vacant by the fixture or chandelier.
- If
there is a switched wall outlet below where the track will be
hung, buy a track design to be used as a portable fixture. This
will come with a cord attached or will specify a proper cord to
use. This cord is not to be nailed or stapled in place as a substitute
for permanent wiring. It is not manufactured to the same standards
as building cable. You can hide the cord in place with a cover
that slips over it.
- If
the above options don't apply or aren't possible or desirable,
wire the track to a wall outlet that is not served by a switch
and install a switch, or wire the track to an existing end-of-the-run
switch. Either method requires fishing wire form the power source
through the wall to above the track, and installing a junction
box in the ceiling so the track can be wired to the power source.
If the area above the track isn't an unfinished attic, this can
be difficult and thus might make option 2 more desirable.
For
the purpose of describing how to install track lighting, this Booklet
assumes that: (1) there is an open, unfinished attic above the room,
and (2) there is an end-the-run wall switch that can be tapped for
power.
If
the second point doesn't apply, use the information that follows
as a guide, but vary the wiring steps to meet the specific requirements.
CAUTION:
If the wiring steps described below must be varied because there
is no end-of-the run wall switch, hire a licensed electrician if
you are not experienced in doing electrical work.
