Instantly modernize your space with track lights
Track lights are the customizable, low-maintenance, versatile lighting solutions to take any living space from so-so to woah with the flip of a switch. They instantly add a modern aesthetic to any room, providing energy-efficient, targeted light where it’s needed most. In this blog article, we illuminate what track lighting systems are, the two broad types of track lights, the benefits of choosing track lights over traditional home lighting, and where to buy track lighting systems online in South Africa. Keep reading - we’re about to light it up!
What are track lighting systems?
Track lighting systems are a versatile and modern lighting solution that consists of a linear track mounted to the ceiling or wall, along which multiple light fixtures can be positioned and adjusted. These tracks contain electrical conductors that power the lights, allowing for flexibility in the arrangement and direction of the light sources. Commonly used in living rooms, kitchens, galleries, and retail spaces, track lighting provides both functional illumination and aesthetic appeal.
A typical track light system consists of a track and any number of track light fixtures on said track.
The track light fixtures themselves can be LED, halogen, or incandescent, offering different levels of brightness and energy efficiency. The adjustable nature of track lights allows for precise control over the lighting ambiance, making them ideal for highlighting artwork, creating focal points, or providing general illumination in modern living spaces.
A misconception of track lights is they slide along the track, when in fact the lights are easy to remove and reposition in place with an innovative clip-in system.
Types of track lights
Among the types of track lights are serviceable track lights, where parts and light fixtures can easily be replaced, and the less-versatile non-serviceable track lights, which cannot be serviced.
- Serviceable track lights
Serviceable track lights are popular because they can be maintained with ease. The GU10 lamps can be replaced effortlessly by anyone, without the need for a track lighting specialist to intervene when bulbs reach the end of their life span.
- Non-serviceable track lights
While these track lights offer longer warrantees and higher lumen outputs, they are less versatile because of their non-serviceable nature. Non-serviceable track lights feature integrated LED lights, which cannot be serviced but need to be replaced at the end of their lifespan. As time passes design trends change and matching the existing track light design with a new replacement light can become a challenge.
Linear track light fittings that are adjustable are also an option where general lighting is required over a spot light typically associated with track lighting.
Types of track
The technology behind track lighting includes various track types, such as 3-wire and 4-wire tracks, which differ in their electrical configurations and compatibility with track lights. 3-Wire tracks are suitable to all applications where the track will be wired to and switched from a single light switch, and 4-wire track catering for scenarios where the track lights need to be switched from two different light switches, commonly referred to as two-way switching.
3-Wire and 4-Wire tracks and lights are not cross compatible and need to be correctly paired.
Track is available in 2m and 3m lengths and can be extended using a Track joint
5 reasons to install track lights in your home
From their versatile design to their energy efficiency, track lights provide a stylish and practical solution for illuminating your home. Here are five compelling reasons to consider adding track lights to your interior decor.
- Versatility
Track lighting systems offer unparalleled versatility, allowing you to direct light exactly where it's needed. Whether you want to highlight artwork, illuminate workspaces, or create ambient lighting, track lights can be adjusted and repositioned to meet your specific needs. This flexibility makes them suitable for any room in your home, from the kitchen to the living room. Track lighting has proven to be the lighting solution of choice where mounting to a thin timber truss is the only option, making it the ideal lighting solution for exposed ceiling rafters or beams.
- Modern and sleek
Track lights add a contemporary touch to any living space with their clean lines and minimalist design. They blend seamlessly with various interior styles, from industrial to modern. Their unobtrusive presence enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home, providing a sophisticated and stylish lighting solution that complements your decor. Track lights are often the light fitting of choice when the ceiling design consists of timber beams with very narrow mounting areas.
- Customisable
One of the key benefits of track lighting is its customizability. You can choose from a variety of track lengths, shapes, and fixture styles to create a lighting setup that perfectly matches your space and preferences. Additionally, the ability to mix and match different light fixtures on the same track allows for endless design possibilities, giving you complete control over your lighting scheme.
- Energy-efficient
Track lighting, especially when equipped with LED bulbs, is an energy-efficient choice for your home. LED track lights consume significantly less electricity compared to traditional incandescent bulbs and have a longer lifespan. This means lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact, making track lights a smart choice for eco-conscious homeowners.
- Low maintenance
Track lighting systems require minimal maintenance, making them a convenient option for busy households. The durable construction of modern track lights ensures longevity, and with LED bulbs, you'll need to change them far less frequently than other types of lighting. The easy access to fixtures also simplifies any necessary adjustments or replacements, keeping your lighting system hassle-free.
Accessories for track lighting systems
Enhance the functionality and style of your track lighting system with a range of accessories designed to customise and optimise your lighting setup. From ensuring seamless connectivity to providing additional safety features and adjusting light diffusion, these accessories can significantly improve your track lighting experience. Here are three essential accessories to consider: track joints, emergency units, and removable diffusers.
- Track joints
Track joints allow you to connect multiple track sections seamlessly, enabling customised configurations that suit your space's layout. With track joints, you can design complex lighting schemes, including L-shaped, T-shaped, and cross patterns, to ensure optimal light distribution throughout the room.
- Emergency unit
In the event of a power outage, emergency track lights automatically activate, ensuring continuous illumination and preventing accidents in darkened areas. Emergency track lights are designed to blend seamlessly with regular track fixtures, maintaining the aesthetic appeal of your lighting setup while offering peace of mind.
- Removeable diffuser
A light diffuser is an accessory that softens and disperses light from a fixture, reducing glare and creating a more even and pleasant illumination. In track lighting systems, removable diffusers can be customised to alter the quality of light according to your needs and preferences.
Buy track lights online in South Africa
If you’re looking to buy track lights online in South Africa, Livecopper have everything you need and more! We have a huge selection of track lighting systems and accessories, including:
We can deliver your new track lighting system to any major centre in South Africa within 1 to 2 business days. Contact us today if you’d like to discuss track lighting in more detail or if you have a specific request!
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