Best Way to Fit a Spotlight Track

Replacing a standard pendant light fitting with a spotlight track system can create a very satisfying transformation without breaking the bank. These track systems are available in a variety of different designs and finishes, so they are suitable for different locations within the home – from the hallway to the lounge, and most popularly in the kitchen and/or dining room. The track system gives you the flexibility to position individual lights along the track to pick out specific areas or features for highlighting, such as a stylish cooker in the kitchen or maybe favorite pictures on the wall in the living room. For example, if there is a particular shortage of natural light in the corner of a room, a cleverly positioned spotlight can make all the difference and bring that area to life.

The connecting blocks of track systems are commonly positioned at one end of the track, so bear this in mind when making your choice, as it will affect where in the room you are able to locate the spotlights. There are also some tracks with the connection block situated in the middle of the track, which may save you having to make alterations to the lighting circuit.

Before you start, turn OFF the power. Unscrew the cover of the existing ceiling rose by hand and then disconnect the wires from the terminals with an ordinary screwdriver. Next, unscrew the base of the rose from the ceiling. Assuming you have access to the floor above, lift the floorboard directly above the ceiling rose and replace the existing rose for a junction box located between the floorboards and the ceiling. Try to fix the track to some of the floor joists if you can.

Mark drilling points with a pencil, drill holes and press in rawlplugs to receive the screws that will hold up the base of the track. Alternatively, fix some battens above in the ceiling void to take the track fittings. Screw the base of the track to the joists or battens, and then pull any excess flex into the ceiling void. Follow the instructions supplied with the track.

Wire one end of the length of flex into the junction box and the other end into the track connections. Attach the cover of the spotlight track and switch the power back on.

Ceiling fixings and instructions are normally supplied with all spotlight track systems. Remember to check that the number of lights you want tous« will not overload the lighting circuit – the shop selling you the spotlight track should normally be able to advise you on this.

As a general rule, if you are in any doubt about performing an electrical task such as this one, don’t do it – get a qualified electrician to come in instead. Electricity is one area of home DIY that you really cannot afford to mess around with.

Low Voltage Lighting

Commonly known as ‘downlighters’, low voltage lighting systems provide an attractive feature but may be too complex to fit for the amateur. However, there is a new, simpler low voltage system available without transformers, which are actually contained within the lamps. Check with your supplier whether conditions within your property are suitable for the installation of downlighters.