How to install track lights?

Installing track lighting involves safely connecting a track to an existing electrical junction box and then attaching the light fixtures. The process can be handled by a DIYer with some electrical experience, but you must take all necessary safety precautions.

Before you begin

• Plan the layout. Measure your space to determine how much track you need. Use a pencil to mark the intended path on the ceiling. Consider what you want to illuminate, and if you need any connectors for corners or T-junctions.
• Gather tools and parts. You will need a ladder, a tape measure, a drill, a screwdriver, wire strippers, and a voltage tester. Ensure your track, power feed, and light heads are all the same type (H, J, or L-style) for proper fit.
• Turn off the power. Go to your home's main fuse or circuit breaker box and shut off the power to the room you'll be working in. Use a voltage tester to confirm that the power is off at the junction box before touching any wires.

Installation steps

1. Remove the old fixture. Take down any existing light fixture from the junction box in your ceiling. It may be heavy, so unscrew it carefully. You will see wires inside the box.
2. Install the mounting plate. Your Track Light kit will come with a mounting plate for the power feed. Attach this plate securely to the junction box according to the manufacturer's directions.
3. Connect the wires. Feed the power wires from your track's power feed or canopy kit through the mounting plate. Match the wire colors to the corresponding wires in the junction box (typically black to black, white to white, and ground to ground) and secure them with wire nuts.
4. Tuck wires and attach the track. Gently push the connected wires back into the junction box. Align and attach the power feed to the mounting plate and track, following the instructions for your specific kit.
5. Mount the rest of the track. Align the track with your pencil marks. If anchoring in drywall, drill pilot holes and install the appropriate anchors. If you hit a ceiling joist, screw directly into it for extra security. Secure the track firmly to the ceiling.
6. Install connectors (if needed). For corner or T-shaped layouts, slide the connectors into the track ends before securing the connecting track section to the ceiling. Ensure the copper strips on the connector align with the conductors in the track.
7. Attach the light heads. Slide the light heads into the track. For many systems, you push down on the locking tab, insert the head, and release the tab to secure it in place. Twist the head until it clicks securely.
8. Aim the lights and test. Install the light bulbs into the fixtures. Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker. Turn on the light switch and test that all the lights are working. Then, adjust and aim the heads to illuminate your desired areas.