Harry Brown
Track devices are budget-friendly, easy-to-install and energy-efficient. They might be selected as a suitable solution for an old home, during a renovation, to avoid new wiring. These modern lamps are versatile, applicable in kitchens, living rooms, and bedrooms. When you need to highlight any area, wall or picture, they are suitable.
Additionally, track lighting is used in offices, exhibition centers, museums, and shops. They draw attention of visitors, making the special products look attractive.
FAQ: How to Choose Flexible Track Lighting Heads?
Do you know what types of track lighting are? It makes sense that people have a lot of questions. When and for what purpose is track lighting used? How to choose the right one and which lamps are used in track luminaires? Let’s work this out together and try to answer the basic questions!
#1. What is track lighting used for?
When installation of traditional hardwired lamps or recessed lights is complicated, track lighting methods can be applied. In this case, lighting fixtures are attached to track devices. These tracks are continuous, commonly made of aluminum or plastic. Electrical wiring is hidden inside them, so existing wall sockets and circuits can be suitable.
Rail and track lighting are successfully used to create ambient, accent or task illumination. Common applications include:
- Highlighting and isolation artworks.
- Entryways and hallways illumination.
- Division of restaurant halls into zones.
- Drawing attention to exhibits or certain goods.
#2. What are different types of track lighting?
According to manufacturers’ standards they meet, all tracks are divided into H, L and J types. They are called after the producers’ names. Thus, Halo-type fixtures come with 3 contacts. Contact tips of J-type devices are 1-inch apart. L-track’s tips are 7/8 inches apart. So, if you want to combine several fixtures, they are to be compatible, belonging to the same standard system.
In terms of shape, there are 2 types of tracks: flexible and linear. Linear ones are commonly offered in straight lengths of 8 or 4 feet. These fixtures are easy to install. Flexible tracks that are curved into the shape you need, are used to create customizable, unique illumination layout.
Track fixtures might be equipped with dissimilar head types, such as:
- step;
- round back;
- pinhole;
- gimbal;
- pendant.
They match diverse interior styles, like traditional, modern, contemporary, rustic, Victorian, etc. Additionally, monorail and pendant track lighting is selected according to the application. Monorail fixtures are made of flexible rods, mainly aluminum. They are used to illuminate artwork or highlight the special room areas. Pendant fixtures hang below the track at certain intervals.
#3. How to choose track lighting?
Going to power spotlights, floodlights or pendant fixtures select a tract system that is versatile and adjustable. To configure it, consider 4 basic things, such as:
- track type;
- components and layout;
- accessories;
- fixtures.
A track system might be designed for running safely on 120V. It’s possible due to application of concealed conductors. Some systems are low-voltage, requiring usage of transformers. Single and two-circuits tracts exist. So, all standards and compatibility are to be carefully checked.
Track connectors and length are selected according to the layout you want to create. Power might be supplied in the middle or at the end of the run. So, a canopy or an end connector is to be used.
The fixtures are to be compatible, manufactured according to the same track standards, based on the same voltage. Accessories such as various lenses or framing projectors might be purchased additionally.
#4. What kind of bulbs do track lights use?
Some lighting systems are compatible with various bulb types, such as CFL, incandescent and LED. Replacing them with LED bulbs is always recommended, as they are energy-efficient and durable.
Meanwhile, your track system might be equipped with specialty bulbs. Some of them are twisted, the others are unplugged or unscrewed to be removed from the light socket. Additionally, buying a new bulb, match it with the old one. It is to be completely the same by shape and size.
#5. Are track lighting heads interchangeable?
Most systems and their components are not interchangeable. The units that belong to the same system, for example, Juno, are compatible. But you can’t simply add fixtures, manufactured according to another standard. Some producers offer a wide variety of options, including heads and fixtures. These brands are preferable.
7 Best Flexible Track Lighting in 2024
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