Lights

Posted in: Lights
Installing Track Lights
By Martin Smith
Apr 4, 2008 - 3:38:21 PM

During Installation of such lights, the standard-voltage track light is the most convenient type to be installed, though a wide variety of track lights is available to opt from the range of bulbs, tracks and other fixtures. If you are looking for lights which are energy efficient, go for fixtures which have low voltage transformers installed in them.

The user’s manual instructing the fitting procedure of the track lights can also be referred to and the process becomes easier of you follow them well.

There may be situations when you realize that the electrical box is not located at the place where you want the fixtures to be placed. In such cases, track connectors can be used to attach the points from the existing electric box or your electrician can install a new box for you. Always remember to comply with the capacity of the tracks and not overload it with lamp holders. You can confirm the capacity of your circuit with your electrician or your lighting retailer.

1. Remove the old fixture

Once you have disconnected the main power supply of the house, take off the old fitting of the ceiling to be replaced. First of all remove the trim and the bulbs, and then the cover place followed by removing of the nuts and attached wires. You can also consider painting the area around the previous fixture and let it dry.

2. Wire the new track fixture

Put the wires of the track light into the ceiling box through the holes in the bracket and attach the wires to the same colored ones. Attach the black wire of the fixture with the black wire in the main circuit and the white wire of the fixture to the white wire. Also remember to connect the earth-points of the circuit and the fixture. Make sure that these are properly attached and taped. Once completed push them in the box to hide them from normal view.

3 Prepare the ceiling

The next step is to attach the track light bracket to the junction box. To do so hold the track light against the box and mark the places where the fixture is to be mounted. If the holes are the same number and match the screw size of the fixture, you can comfortably screw them else you may have to drill new holes and use hang the fixture with toggle bolts.
 
4. Mount the track

Pilot holes will have to be drilled for mounting the track to the ceiling with one and a half inch screws. In case you are planning to use toggle bolts, push them into the ceiling and tighten them.

5. Assemble the fixture

Connect the power wires and put back the canopy plate, if there is one. Push the wires inside the box and make sure the fixture is firmly locked. You can refer to the user’s manual for assistance in ensuring the polarity marks. Once completed, turn on the main power supply and adjust the track light as per your requirement.

© Copyright 2008 by Home Improvements - DIY Stuff