Replacing a Ceiling Track Light
|
|
I installed all new track light, and my no-touch power tester lights up almost anywhere on the ceiling within 12 inches of the track. Is this normal? |
Track Light
[ad#block] Electrical Question: I installed all new track but it was difficult because the junction box orientation and screw placement did not match up with the orientation and screws of the track unit.
- I am replacing ancient track lighting. I installed all new track but it was difficult because the junction box orientation and screw placement did not match up with the orientation and screws of the track unit.
- I finally got it together but am slightly alarmed that my no-touch power tester lights up almost anywhere on the ceiling – within 12 inches of the track.
- Is this normal for the current to be picked up that far away or does it indicate that my jury-rigged connection has a problem?
This electrical wiring question came from Saelon, a Homeowner in Oregon.
Saelon, Thank You for Visiting Ask-the-Electrician!
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Saelon.
Problem with a Ceiling Track Light
Application: Replacing Track Lighting.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor, or Certified Electrician.
Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch Hand Tools, Voltage Tester, and appropriate Safety Gear.
Estimated Time: Depends on the personal level experience, ability to work with tools, install electrical circuit wiring, and the available access to the project area.
Electrical Safety: Identify the electrical power source to the Ceiling Light, turn it OFF and Tag with a Note before working with the electrical wiring.
Electrical Wiring Parts and Materials: Electrical parts and materials for the Ceiling Light should be approved for the specific project and compliant with local and national electrical codes.
Electrical Codes and Inspections: Installing or changing home electrical wiring should be done according to local and national electrical codes as adopted in your location. A permit and inspections may also be required.
Replacing Track Lighting in a Hallway
This electrical wiring project is about a Ceiling Light in the Hallway of a Home.
Problem when Replacing a Track Light
Reviewing the Electrical Question:
- I am replacing ancient track lighting. I installed all new track but it was difficult because the junction box orientation and screw placement did not match up with the orientation and screws of the track unit.
- Saelon, from the information you have provided, the tester may be giving an indication that there is a shorted wire, possibly due to a mounting screw penetrating the insulation of a fixture wire. Therefore, the mounting brackets and wiring connections should be carefully checked.
- NOTE: Keep in mind that all electrical wiring projects should never be jury-rigged, and when using the correct materials there should not be a problem. You may need a different mounting bracket or track light adapter.
More about a Installing a Ceiling Light
Electrical Boxes for Electric Repairs and Home Wiring Projects
Electrical Junction Boxes for Home Wiring
Understanding electrical junction boxes and what they are used for. Home electrical wiring is the process of installing electrical wire to a location that will serve electrical devices or an appliance. One very important component is the box where the wire will be installed. The type and size of the home wiring electrical boxes will depend upon the circuit size, application and its location.
Planning and Installing Home Lighting
Home lighting articles covering recessed lighting, under cabinet lighting, lighting terminology and more.
Electrical Junction Box Splice
Electrical junction box splices can be made safely when you understand the method. This example will show you how its done step by step and shows how to make a junction box splice and the related electrical codes.
Emergency Electrical Splices
Wiring Electrical Codes
Electrical Safety
Troubleshooting Electrical Problems
Home Electrical Troubleshooting and Repairs
Licensed Electrician Reveals the Secrets of Successful Electrical Troubleshooting Methods used to solve the majority of the home electrical problems and wiring failures.
Electrical Testers
Using Testers to Help Locate Electrical Problems
|
||||||||
Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
| More articles about Electrical Wiring, Track Lights and Home Electrical Wiring: | |
| « Previous | Next » |
| Does a GFCI Outlet Need to be Grounded? | Moving an Oven and the Electrical Wiring |
