Why Track Lights May Stop Working

How to Know What Causes Lights to Not Work – Installing high watt lamps that are not specified for the track light head. Each light head or compatible light fixture attached to the track light has a bulb size, type and watt limitation

Identifying Track Light Problems

Electrical Question: I installed track lighting in the kitchen just over a year ago.

Just recently all the lights started to flicker and now after you turn it on all lights on the track cut off in about two minutes.
I turn the switch off and then back on and the lights come on again.
What could be the problem?

Additional Comments: Love the site! Thank you for your help!

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Travis.
Background: Travis, a Homeowner from Fort Mill, SC

How to Know What Causes Lights to Not Work

Here is a list of things that may prevent track lights from working:
- Installing high watt lamps that are not specified for the track light head. Each light head or compatible light fixture attached to the track light has a bulb size, type and watt limitation. Installing higher watt bulbs is not recommended.
- The live end connection. Some track lights have a power connection at one end which is called the Live End. The wire connections to this area are intricate. The connection of the live end to the track light as it slides into the track must be installed correctly for best performance.
- Connection points and wiring. Any connection point could be a potential problem if the installation is not sound. Check these connection points and any wire connectors.
- Light switch or dimmer switch. Standard light switches can fail and need replacing, however dimmer switches must be compatible with the type and total watts being controlled otherwise the dimmer will have a short life, the bulbs will burn out prematurely, or the dimmer will not function at all.

The Following will assist you with Track Lighting

Home Lighting Articles
Home Lighting Articles covering recessed lighting, under cabinet lighting, lighting terminology and more.
Kitchen Lights

Kitchen Electrical Wiring Requirements
This wiring diagram and pictures explain the basic kitchen electrical code wiring requirements required for most new or remodel projects.For more information about Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Electrical Wiring
Licensed Electrician Reveals the Secrets of Successful Electrical Troubleshooting Methods used to solve the majority of the home electrical problems and wiring failures encountered.
This link is helpful as a Homeowner
Do-It-Yourself Electrical

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How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring
Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring
NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

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Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs

Please Note:
Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area.

Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.