Installing track lighting using an existing ceiling box is one of the easiest of all do-it-yourself electrical jobs. That said, if you're not comfortable working with electrical
wiring, don't hesitate to hire a professional electrician. Before following the
steps outlined below, make sure the power is turned off for the circuit that you're
working on. Post a sign or lock out the panel box as a further precaution.
How to install track lights
If you're not replacing an existing light fixture, a new electrical run/junction box has to be installed
for your track lights. That's a much more experienced do-it-yourself job that
will likely require a licensed electrician. It might then be easier to have the
electrician do the whole track lighting installation.
- When replacing an existing light fixture, the first step is to remove it. After turning off the
power as detailed above, flip the light switch to prove the power is off. Once
the old fixture is off the ceiling box, check the circuit again with a voltage
tester to guarantee no current is present in the box. If not, disconnect the wires
from the old fixture.
- Next, match the electrical wires to the connector wires for your track lights. Black connects
to black, white to white. With switch loops, white wires are marked black. Use
wire connectors to splice the wires.
- Now plug the connector into the end of the track. Hold the track lighting to the ceiling in
the position desired, and use a pencil to mark the ceiling through the track's
mounting holes. Drill the holes, and use toggles to hold the track in place. If
mounting to a stud, use screws to secure the track lighting.
- Next, snap the track lights' connector cover in place and install the lighting heads. Align the
contact blade of each lighting head parallel to the track for insertion. Rotate
the base 90 degrees to lock the track light in place. Once all track lights are
installed, turn on the power and enjoy your new track lighting.
