Track Lighting Fixtures

To choose the right track lighting fixtures, you need a little background about this style of lighting. Track lighting has the advantage of being built-in because it's mounted to the wall or ceiling and is connected to a concealed junction box, but since the light fixtures can move along a rigid track or hang from a flexible track, it is a more adaptable setup than most built in lighting systems.

Generally, good room lighting provides overall illumination, task lighting, and accent lighting. Track lights can be a convenient solution for both accent and task lighting challenges. Track lights can be adjusted as furniture is moved to different locations in a room, and it doesn't clutter tables or desktops. It can also be an energy efficient choice.

Installing track lighting can be easy too. Track lighting fixtures use a linear system that can make great use of limited electrical junction boxes, and some systems can even be plugged into wall outlets. Other built-in lighting will often require the services of an electrician to install the required electrical service.

Track lighting is typically sold in compliance with one of three standards: Halo (H), Juno (J), or Lightolier (L). There are also a number of all-in-one systems that are sold as complete units with all the components included. These may use proprietary technologies that are not compatible with the above standards. The advantage of all-in-one systems is that everything you need is included, but they aren't very flexible, and upgrading, repairing or replacing elements can sometimes be a hassle.

Of the three accepted track lighting standards, H, J and L, H-type is the most widely available, although major lighting suppliers will probably carry some fixtures suitable for all three. Using Halo or one of the other two standards will allow you to pick and choose the components you want, or purchase entire systems that you can change later when your needs change.

When planning your track lighting installation, remember that the fixtures can be adjusted to illuminate different areas of the space but can't be turned off independently. Single and dual circuit systems will let you turn track lighting fixtures on and off either all at once or in two groups, like the left two fixtures and then the right two fixtures.

Standard track lighting fixtures use line voltage, the same type of power that comes directly from your wall outlet. Special low voltage track lights are available which use less power and can be safely housed in a smaller fixture. Smaller fixtures, instead of the canister types you may be familiar with, offer more design options and are also more energy efficient. Lower voltage systems convert line voltage via a transformer mounted directly on the fixture itself. They also typically use halogen lights. If you're not used to halogen, this type of light tends to be whiter and brighter than some of the indoor light bulbs you may be using now. Before you make a decision, take a look at a few standard and low voltage track lighting systems at your retailer to get an idea of how the illumination will work in your space.

Track lighting can be a good choice for rooms where you rearrange the furniture often, have designated areas where you need good light, like near a desk or crafting workstation, or in areas where you want to showcase artwork or art objects displayed on shelves or tables. It isn't the best choice for overall illumination, but can add good accent and task lighting with flexibility and style.

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