Did you know that track lighting has been around since the late 1960s? It is hard to imagine these fittings were around at the time that Neil Armstrong set foot on the moon, and they’re still going strong, says lighting expert Eurolux.
Having gained popularity in art galleries and museums to highlight artworks and features, track lighting hit the mainstream in retail stores in the 1970s and was gradually embraced in upmarket home settings.
Now, with an ever-expanding selection of fittings available, track lighting has come into its own once again, and these contemporary fixtures can be used to create a unique tailored look which simultaneously enhances a space, and highlights features as required.
There are different applications, which Eurolux unpacks below:
3-Wire Track Lights
These are commonly used in homes and commercial spaces. They have three wires: Power, neutral, and earth. They are easy to install, having only one circuit, and they are perfectly suited for uncomplicated lighting setups, offering the basic benefit of accent and task lighting in desired positions along the length of the track.
4-Wire Track Lights
They are like 3-wire lights, but with an additional wire that can be used for either dimming or brightness control. They offer more flexibility and control but may require slightly more effort for installation due to the extra wire. If you are looking for more advanced dimming features such as colour temperature adjustment or scene pre-sets, then a four-wire set-up is the best option.
Magnetic Track Lights
They make use of magnets for power instead of traditional wiring. They attach magnetically to conductive strips on the track, allowing for easy repositioning. The tracks are low maintenance, with dimmable fittings in pendant, spotlight or track light format. Installation is simple as there is no need for individual wiring. Given the sleek design of the tracks, they are also clean-lined and minimalist. This makes magnetic tracks the most elegant and versatile of the track light options that are available.
When selecting a track light to suit your need, be sure to choose the spots or pendants that are intended for that track system type. It is worth noting, too, that it is best to order your track and fittings from a single supplier to ensure compatibility throughout your setup and installation. When in doubt, get the advice of a skilled electrician, or ask your lighting company for advice.
With a world of track light options at your disposal, you can create an environment to suit your mood, whether it from retro to modern and anything in between.
Enquiries: www.eurolux.co.za
