Track Lighting

1. Low-voltage track lighting uses 12-volt power and consumes less electricity than line-voltage which run off standard outlets. A transformer (usually included) converts the standard 120-volt line power to 12-volt; transformers should have wattage equal to or greater than the wattage sum of all the bulbs operating in the entire system.

2. Average dimmer switches do not always work to full capacity with low-voltage; there might be a buzzing sound, or the fixture may barely increase or decrease in intensity. This problem is easily solved with the use of a noise filter and by purchasing a more rugged dimmer switch.

3. Track lighting quickly adapts to new room arrangements because lights are easily repositioned to meet new requirements. These can also draw attention to architectural detail and can be used for general everyday use, or to highlight paintings and outstanding features of the room.

4. Lamps in the system are also known as fixtures. Systems have fixtures that are specially designed for the specific track and are not always interchangeable from system to system.

5. There are two different types: the original two-wire tracks and the newer three-wire tracks that are required by some building codes. The higher demand for three-wire tracks, which use the third wire for grounding, ensures that selections of replacement fixtures and expansion parts will remain readily available.

6. Track lighting fixtures use a variety of bulbs that vary in illumination area lit up. Floodlamps have large beam angles to provide a large, general area of illumination.  Spot lights have smaller beam angles to illuminate specific areas.

7. Once you install it, there are modifications that you can make. When hanging them on high or vaulted ceilings or loft areas, use a suspension kit that allows you greater flexibility.

8. Connectors allow you to attach tracks to each other in straight lines, or at any angle you wish to create; you can even create circles or squares without using dead connectors. A flex connector used to diverge rails, and are able to be bent in a series of directions and maintain the various positions.

9. Fixed track lighting was originally used commercially. Now common to any architectural structure because of versatility and easy installation, most fixed systems operate on line voltage, taking the current directly from wall or ceiling outlets.

10. Pendants, which are available in kits or for sale as individual components, consists of fixtures that are suspended to provide a soft illumination to any area. Use these at home in over counter workspaces and dining tables to eliminate the shadows often present in non-suspending fixtures.