How to Add Track Lighting | |
Track lighting provides a continuous-powered track that accepts fixtures (called heads) anywhere along its length. The heads and the wide variety of lamps (bulbs) they accept suit virtually every lighting situation; and most heads are also adjustable. One-, two-, three-, and four-circuit tracks let you mix standard and low-voltage heads or have multiple switching options. Track systems are easily modified or added to as lighting needs change. Controls ranging from a simple on-off switch to elaborate programmable, dimming devices are widely available. So the system is extraordinarily flexible. However, manufacturer's systems are not compatible, so choose with future needs in mind. Although tracks can be recessed flush with a ceiling surface or suspended from posts, typically they are fastened to the surface either directly or with mounting clips. (Clip installations make future ceiling painting easier and allow for surface irregularities.) Installing a simple, single-circuit track system using an existing switched outlet and stock-length tracks requires only basic DIY skills and tools (ladder, tape measure, circuit/voltage tester, drill, screwdrivers, long nose pliers). Having someone who can help measure, mark, and support track sections during installation is very helpful. The installation does assume an understanding of how your electrical system works and basic wiring techniques. Unless you install track with a cord-and-plug adapter, you'll need an existing switched ceiling box somewhere along the track path. If not, locate at least one switched outlet for each track system installed. If you tap into an existing outlet, an electrical permit and inspection will not likely be required; but it's a good idea to draw a simple plan and review it with a licensed electrician or your local electrical inspector. Include information about the amperage of the circuit (typically 15 amps) and the number of existing outlets (receptacles and lights). Such a consultation is essential if you intend to add a switched outlet or add a new circuit. Before you begin an installation, shut power to the circuit involved at the service panel (switch off breaker or remove fuse, as required) and verify power is off at the outlet by testing all wires in the outlet with a circuit/voltage tester. Installation details vary with manufacturers and models so always follow detailed instructions provided. With a switched outlet in place, generally there are five basic installation steps: Installation Steps 1. Install and wire a power adapter to the ceiling box. Fasten the adapter to the box with screws. If the adapter is prewired, splice its ungrounded hot (black) and grounded neutral (white) wires to corresponding wires in the box using solderless connectors (wirenuts). If the adapter has screw terminals, attach the hot wire to the brass/copper terminal and the neutral to the silver-colored terminal. Attach the fixture's green ground wire to the bare ground wire or directly to bare ground wire. Follow manufacturer's wiring diagrams, especially for multi-circuit tracks, which can often be wired in more than one way, depending on your desired switching design. 2. Using a pencil and straightedge, lightly mark the track centerline from the power adapter to the end of the track. If the track is to be directly fastened (no mounting clips), mark any predrilled mounting hole locations. If the track must be cut, follow the manufacturer's instructions, making clean, square cuts with a hacksaw and miter box. 3. Install the track support clips; or, if fastening the track directly, drill holes in ceiling (as required for the type hollow wall fasteners used) at previously, marked locations. Screw directly to framing where available; otherwise use hollow-wall fasteners such as toggle bolts or expansion bolts (Molly). Don't use plastic sleeves; they are not strong enough. Use a minimum of one clip/fastener every four feet. You can drill new mounting holes in the track at framing locations if you wish. 4. Attach the track. Plug the track into connector and up into mounting clips, securing it with locking screws as provided at adapter and clips. If additional track is to be installed, attach the appropriate connector to the end of the track and repeat Steps 2 through 4. 5. Install trim (cover plates) and snap heads onto the track. Written by Roy Barnhart Copyright HouseNet, Inc. |