However, some folks just want a clean approach to lighting. Different types of fixtures can be utilized to create unique vibes and follow different themes. Attach it and then install the lighting fixtures.Lighting fixtures can be a powerful tool in the hands of a master interior decorator. After securing the track, connect the live end to it by inserting it into the track's slots.Ī cover plate is usually supplied to conceal the live end and any exposed wires. To position the track, you most likely will have to thread it between the wires leading from the live end to the ceiling. Mark the ceiling for the track and then install it with toggle bolts or other fasteners. Depending on the design, be sure to thread the live end's wiring through the mounting plate before making the splices. Tighten the fasteners and then install the lighting fixtures.įor track lighting to which power can be connected at any point, start by attaching the live end to the ceiling wiring. Install the track loosely to allow connecting the live end's wiring to the wiring in the ceiling. Then hold the track in place and use it as a guide for marking holes for fasteners, usually toggle bolts. Use a chalk line to mark the center line of the track on the ceiling. Attach pigtails, short lengths of wire, to the terminal screws in the live end if the instructions specify, and lead them through the opening in the mounting plate. Track lighting kits come with complete directions, but the basics and some helpful hints are these:įor track lighting to be connected at one end to a ceiling fixture, start by attaching the wiring connector or live end to the track, together with the mounting plate that covers the opening of the electrical box in the ceiling. Many track systems can be connected to ceiling wire only at one end, but some can be connected at any point. Power is supplied by attaching the track to ceiling wiring just as with a conventional fixture. The track in a track lighting system functions like an extended wall outlet, allowing lighting fixtures to be connected anywhere along its length. Some kinds can be joined to form crosses. Standard track lengths are 2, 4 and 8 feet and can be connected in a straight line or to form L-, U- and other shapes. Conventional ceiling lights can be easily replaced with track lighting. If a problem remains, the wall switch, if there is one, may be at fault otherwise, replace the fixture. Reattach the fixture to the ceiling and restore the power. With fixtures having terminal screws, reattach a disconnected wire by wrapping the bared end clockwise around the screw and tightening the screw firmly. Then reinstall the plastic caps by screwing them over the splices until the caps are tight and no bare wire ends show. Even if no wires appear loose, twist each splice clockwise firmly to restore any weak connections. Reattach any loose spliced wires by twisting them clockwise with the other or others of their group. If it does, locate the source of power, usually another circuit, and shut it off. The tester should not light during these tests. Then place in turn one of the probes against a metal part of the outlet box and the other against each ceiling wire. Place the tester's probes against the bared ends of the ceiling wires in both splices or attached to both terminal screws. Ordinarily, there are two splices - one joining white wires, another joining black wires. Unscrew the plastic caps covering the splices that join the fixture wires to the ceiling wires. But before proceeding, further confirm that the power is off by using a voltage tester, a small light bulb with two wires attached. If you see loose wires, you have found the problem. Unfasten the fixture from the ceiling and lower it. If the fixture is controlled by a wall switch, turn the switch on to ensure accurate testing. For this step, shut off power to the circuit by tripping the breaker or removing the fuse. If the light still does not work, examine the wiring. Reinstall the bulb and test the fixture again. After making sure that the switch is off, use a knife or fine-grit sandpaper to scrape the inside of the socket and the metal tab at the bottom until they shine.īlow out the residue and then pry up the tab slightly so that it will make good contact with the bulb. If the breaker fuse is not at fault, or if the bulb works but flickers or crackles, try cleaning the fixture's socket. Keep your other hand in a pocket or use it to hold a plastic, therefore insulated, flashlight. Perform all tasks, including opening the service panel, with one hand only.
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