Question 1

How does track lighting work?

Accepted Answer

Track lighting runs power along a rail fixed to your ceiling or wall. Heads clip anywhere along that rail and draw power from it, so you can space them where you want light and re-position them later without rewiring. Our tracks are 240V and connect to your existing lighting circuit through a live end feed.

Question 2

What is the difference between single circuit and three circuit track lighting?

Accepted Answer

Single circuit track carries one switched circuit, so every head on the rail turns on and off together. Three circuit track carries three separately switchable circuits, so you can group heads and control each group from its own switch. Single circuit suits most homes. Three circuit is the usual choice for retail, galleries and larger commercial spaces where you want zones.

Question 3

Is 3 wire the same as single circuit, and 4 wire the same as three circuit?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The wire count describes the conductors inside the rail. 3 wire track is single circuit, also called single phase. 4 wire track is three circuit. When you are matching heads to a rail, the circuit type is the thing that has to match.

Question 4

Will track heads from one brand fit another brand's track?

Accepted Answer

Usually yes, within the same circuit type, and each product page states what a head is compatible with. What never mixes is circuit type: a single circuit (3 wire) head will not run on three circuit (4 wire) track, or the reverse. Low voltage 48V systems are a separate standard again and work only with their own track and driver. If you are adding to an existing run, send us a photo of the rail and live end and we will confirm the match first.

Question 5

How many heads can I run on one track?

Accepted Answer

The limit is total wattage, not the number of clips. Add up the wattage of the heads and keep it inside the rating printed on the rail and the circuit protecting it. LED heads draw very little, typically 7W to 35W each, so a run of six to ten heads is common on a domestic single circuit track. Your electrician will confirm the safe number for your circuit.

Question 6

Can track lighting be cut to length?

Accepted Answer

Our tracks come in fixed 1m, 2m and 3m lengths, and the usual way to fit an awkward span is to join lengths with a straight joiner or step down to a shorter rail. Cutting track is electrical work and should only be done by a licensed electrician, because the cut end has to be terminated correctly and cutting can void the warranty. Talk to us first and we will work out the neatest combination of lengths and joiners for your space.

Question 7

Do I need an electrician to install track lighting?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Track lighting is hard wired to 240V mains, so it must be installed by a licensed electrician. Once the track and live end are in, you can re-position, add or swap heads yourself with the power switched off, which is the main practical advantage of a track system.

Question 8

Are track lights dimmable?

Accepted Answer

Some are. It is listed under specifications on each product page, so check before you buy. Dimmable LED track heads need a compatible LED dimmer. We also stock a 240V three circuit DALI track for projects that need DALI dimming across zones.

Question 9

How do I change the globe in a track light?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the head. Heads that take a replaceable GU10 globe let you switch the power off, twist the globe a quarter turn, pull it out and push the new one in. Integrated LED heads have the LED built in and are not designed to be re-globed, so at end of life you replace the head, which unclips from the track. Check the globe base listed on the product page to see which type you have.

Question 10

Is track lighting a good choice for a kitchen?

Accepted Answer

It works well in a kitchen because you can aim each head where you actually work. Point heads at the bench, the island and the sink rather than relying on one central fitting, and you lose the shadow you get when you stand with your back to a single light. A three head kit is a common starting point over an island. Track also suits open plan living, hallways with artwork, and retail and cafe displays.

Question 11

Can track lighting be used outdoors or in a bathroom?

Accepted Answer

No. Our track systems are rated IP20, which means dry indoor use only. They must not be installed in bathroom zones or anywhere exposed to weather. For a covered outdoor area look at our outdoor lighting range instead, and for a bathroom choose a fitting with the IP rating your zone requires.

Question 12

Does longer track cost more to ship?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Track in 2m and 3m lengths ships as a long length parcel and carries a long length shipping surcharge instead of our standard rate. The exact charge is shown at checkout. It covers the courier's oversize parcel cost and the rigid PVC tube we pack it in so it cannot bend in transit.