Track Safety

Installation of any fixture, including track lighting, should be done with caution. All of these must be installed correctly to prevent electrical problems which could cause damage or lead to fire and properly secured to prevent injury. It pays to know what you're getting into when installing these, so be sure to do your research. If you have questions about the installation, it's best to consult a professional. Even if you choose to do the installation yourself, having a professional look over your ituation and advise the best course of action is always a good precaution.

Below are some common frequently asked questions regarding installation. This information should help you get started on the right path. And remember - always, always turn the power off at the breaker box before beginning any electrical work!

Do I need to install it where there is an existing junction box or power source for a fixture?
This will depend on the type of track lighting you're using. Some systems require only an outlet to provide power; in that case, you'll just need to make sure there is an outlet located close to where you plan to do the install. However, some require a junction box to provide power. Most houses are already equipped with junction boxes where fixtures are meant to be installed, and it certainly makes your job easier if you can use one of those. If there isn't a junction box available where you want to hang it, you would do best to call an electrician and have a junction box installed before continuing with the installation. This job can get complicated and unless you have a strong background working with electrical systems, you shouldn't attempt it yourself.

How do I turn my track lighting on and off safely? This will again depend on the type you buy. Ones that plug directly into wall outlets should come equipped with their own on/off switches. A system that is powered by a junction box will be controlled by a wall switch in your home. What safety rules should I follow when deciding where to install my track lighting? When laying out a plan, you'll need to consider a few safety factors. The main one is whether or not it will be a hazard to those walking through the room. This is why it's important to get measurements - make sure that the suspension kit does not hang so low from the ceiling that someone may hit their head. Also make sure that the tracks are located at least six inches away from curtains or any other flammable materials.

What do I need to know about making the proper electrical connections?
Read and follow all instructions carefully. Most systems are relatively easy to install once you've gotten any old fixture removed and the junction box is ready. It's mainly a case of connecting matching wires - for example, the silver wire on the fixture will connect to the silver wire in your ceiling. Always take note of the connections while removing the old lighting fixture, and if wires are the same color mark the matching pairs with masking tape or colored string. Some people find it helpful to draw a diagram of the wiring in colored pencil.

How do I ensure that the track is securely installed?
Ideally, you'll be able to connect your track lighting to joists in the ceiling, which means you can use simple screws to attach it. In areas where ceiling joists are unavailable, you'll need to use toggle bolts to hold the track into the plaster of the ceiling.

What if my track lighting system doesn't work?
If you've installed it yourself, screwed in the bulbs, and turned it on but are not getting any results, chances are you have a loose connection. Remove the cover plate from the junction box and re-examine all connections for tightness. Check to make sure that the cover plate is not pinching any of the wires, and re-check your wiring diagram to make sure everything is properly connected.