Track Lighting: Track Heads and Fixtures

Which track the head will clip onto

Track heads are not universal. In North America the common systems are called H, J and L, after three long-established adapter designs, and a head built for one will not seat in another's rail without a converter. Look for the system letter in the title or description, and count the circuits on the track: a single-circuit rail switches all heads together, while a two-circuit rail can split them. Heads made for a PAR30 bulb take a separate lamp; others have the LED built in and are replaced as a unit.

Spot or flood, and how much one track can carry

Beam angle decides the effect. A narrow spot, around 25 degrees or less, picks out artwork or a mantel, while a flood of 40 degrees or more washes a wall or counter evenly. Lamp power is quoted per head, such as 6.5 W to 20 W, so add the heads up and keep the total under the rating of the track and its circuit. LED heads draw so little that you will usually run out of track length before you run out of capacity.

Questions about Track Lighting: Track Heads and Fixtures

Can I use any track head on any track?

No. Match the system (H, J or L), or use the maker's adapter. Heads sold for a different system may look similar but have different contact spacing and will not hold securely or power up.

Spot or flood bulbs for track lighting?

Use spots, around 25 degrees or narrower, to highlight art and architecture, and floods, 40 degrees or wider, for general light. Mixing both on one track gives flexibility, and many heads let you aim and rotate.

How many track heads fit on one rail?

It depends on the track length and its power rating, not just space. Add the wattage of every head and stay under the printed limit. Designers often space heads a foot or two apart, but the printed limit always wins.