Installing Low Voltage Track Lights

Intro

High-tech-looking Eurostyle lights are readily available at lighting stores and home centers. They appear complicated but are easy to install. Some units simply plug into a receptacle.

Low-voltage halogens save on energy use, but the bulbs get hot. Keep the lights out of the reach of children and away from combustible surfaces such as curtains.

A transformer may step voltage down to 8 to 20 volts. However, you hook it up to standard household wiring, so be sure to shut off power before working.

Checklist

Time
About 2 hours to remove a ceiling fixture and install a Eurostyle light

Tools
Screwdriver, drill, voltage tester, stud finder, strippers, lineman's pliers, nonconducting ladder

Skills
Attaching hardware with screws, stripping wire, splicing stranded wire to solid wire

Prep
Spread a drop cloth on the floor.

Materials
New light fixture, wire nuts, electrician's tape

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Step 1

Shut off power to the circuit. Remove an existing light fixture and splice the transformer leads to the house wires.

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Switch/Receptacle for Plug-In Transformers

If you have no existing ceiling fixture, buy a unit that plugs into a receptacle. A receptacle with a switched plug can be replaced so you can control the light from a wall switch.

Step 2

Measure carefully and try to position the rod holder under a joist. Attach the holder with screws long enough to reach through drywall or plaster and fasten at least 1/2 inch into the joist. Use plastic wall anchors if no joist is available.

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Stylish Options

With a track that can bend into curves, the halogen fixture is as decorative as it is functional. The transformer mounts anywhere along the track, and the track can be cut to any length.

Step 3

Mount the transformer and canopy to the ceiling box strap. Slide the rods through the canopy rod connectors. Slip an end cap onto each end of both rods.

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Stylish Options

Lights straddle two vertical wires that deliver low-voltage current in another fixture style. Lights can slide up or down and rotate on an axis. The fixture can be installed horizontally.

Step 4

Remove the bottom piece from each rod holder. Snap the rods into the grooves and reattach the holder bottom piece.

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Step 5

Attach the lamps to the rods, following the manufacturer's instructions. These attach with two-piece holders similar to the rod holders shown in Step 4. Position each lamp and tighten the screws.

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