Because it is surface mounted, track is particularly easy to install, especially in remodels. The track is usually mounted to the ceiling but it can be mounted to a wall, a beam or dropped from the ceiling on stems or cables.
Are track lights outdated?
In fact, track lighting more often finds its way onto outdated decor lists. Track lighting, however, like its equally maligned brothers, wood paneling and ceiling fans, does have a place in modern interior design.
What is the difference between track and rail lighting?
Another entry often found under track lighting are fixed rail lighting fixtures. While they are installed on a track, they are different from a track lighting system in that fixed rail lighting is usually mounted to the wall, rather than the ceiling. They are often found in bathroom lighting, over vanities.
How far track light should be from wall?
Mount the track fixture parallel to the wall. If your ceiling height is 9 feet or lower, place the track about two to three feet from the wall. If the ceiling is between 9 and 11 feet, place the track about three to four feet from the wall. Then, space the fixtures the same distance apart as the track is from the wall.
Can I use track lighting in a bathroom?
Track lighting also works, with the bulbs directed specifically at the tub area. You may want to consider a dimmer so you can have that spa-like moment when you want it. The shower is the most humid environment, with water that can splash up to the ceiling.
Are track lights worth it?
“Track lighting helped me to add tons more light all over the room with a single install,” she says. “As long as you can keep it low-profile, it’s a great option when you need lots more light and aren’t willing — or able, such as in a rental — to add more fixtures.”
Are all track lighting tracks the same?
Most units are interchangeable if they are in the same track category. For example, one brand’s J track lighting will be interchangeable with another brand’s J track lighting, and so on. However, you can’t simply add in fixtures meant for J track to an H or L track.
What are the different types of track lighting?
There are three types of track: H, J, and L. The terms come from the manufacturers that set the standards for each type: Halo, Juno, and Lightolier. The different types do have some similarities.
Can track lighting be plugged into an outlet?
Planning Your Track Lighting
A plug-in track light requires no electrical wiring, but must be located near an outlet. Hardwired track lights require electrical connections be made at a junction box (an electrical box in the ceiling or wall) during installation.
Do you need a transformer for track lighting?
Please note that low voltage tracks always require a transformer. This transformer determines how many lights can be put on the track. The fact that 230V is the standard, also has its influence on the range of choice.
What is the difference between HJ and L track lighting?
They differ in the way they each fit into the track. The adapter of a “H” fixture has three silver colored contacts – two on one side, and one on the other. An “L” fixture has two silver contacts shaped.
Can you add more lights to track lighting?
Track Lighting is customizable and flexible: You can add and subtract light fixtures as needed as long as the number of fixtures you add remains under the maximum wattage specified by the track. You can change out the heads to better suit your needs, as long as the fixture and the track are compatible.
Can I mount a ceiling light on the wall?
You cannot install all kinds of ceiling lights on walls. While installing chandeliers and the like on walls is out of the question, many ceiling lights may emit heat and light that make it unsuitable as a wall fixture. Moreover, you might void the warranty due to incorrect installation.
Where do you aim track lights?
Place track fixtures over strategic areas of your living room including seating arrangements and entrances to maximize task lighting coverage. Direct the beam of light where illumination will be needed most, including directly over the sofa or angled toward the entryway.
How far apart do you put LED downlights?
Then space your downlights evenly across the room. How far apart you space your lights generally depends on the size of your space. A good rule is to divide your ceiling height by 2 to give you the space between each light, but don’t go more than 6 feet apart, or you’ll lose the impact.
