Track lighting system in the interior of the apartment
Track lights in the interior of apartments and houses began to be used relatively recently. Until then, they were mainly used in offices, stores and museums. This solution is characterized by its functionality, because the plafond can be placed anywhere on the track and the light can be directed where it is needed. Such models fit particularly well in modern environments.
Features of design
First of all, you need to understand the design features of track lighting fixtures. You also need to consider the advantages and disadvantages of this option and which lamps are suitable for use. The design is as follows:
- The busduct is the main element on which the load. Most often it is a profile of a special configuration, which can be made of metal or plastic. Inside there is a contact element from which the fixtures are powered. The busbar can be either rigid or flexible.
- Track lighting fixtures have a special attachment for mounting on the bus. They can rotate in all directions and lock into position to illuminate a specific area.
- Accessories for assembling the system. This includes connectors, busway hangers, end caps, etc.
Track lights can operate from both standard and undervoltage 12V. The second option is safer and more economical, but to install it, you will need to buy a step-down transformer of suitable capacity.
Pros and cons
Track lighting system has its own advantages and disadvantages. First of all, it is necessary to deal with the advantages:
- Ease of care and maintenance. It is necessary from time to time to remove dust from the track, it is most convenient to do it with a vacuum cleaner.
- Installing the system It is not difficult to install the system, because all fasteners are included in the kit and you need to assemble the main assemblies like a construction set. If necessary, you can add or remove fixtures.
- Flexibility of settings and convenience of control. The spotlights can be moved anywhere on the track and direct the light where you need it. And when LED equipment is used, the brightness is also adjustable.
- Safety of the system. It does not create electromagnetic radiation and does not heat up even during long operation.
- Originality of performance. Such solutions look unusual and emphasize the modern design of the room or corridor. There are many solutions made in different styles, so it is not difficult to choose a suitable model.
As for the disadvantages, there are much less:
- High price in comparison with traditional solutions.
- Track systems are not suitable for all interiors.
Video format: Any popular lighting system has nuances (it will be useful to read).
Types by light source
Track lighting in the apartment can be with different types of lamps, each of them has pros and cons:
- Incandescent bulbs are the least frequently used because they produce a yellow light, get very hot when they run, and consume the most electricity. They also have the shortest lifespan and have to be replaced frequently.
- Halogen versions are much better in light quality than incandescent bulbs, although they have a similar design. They are often used in tracks, but they also have disadvantages - a strong heating during operation and not a very long life.
- Fluorescent lamps give bright light, although they can flicker if a special unit is not used. They almost do not heat during operation, consume little electricity, can be both with a cartridge and in the form of a tube. The main disadvantage is the mercury vapor inside the bulb.
- LED equipment is the most economical today. In addition, diodes last at least 30,000 hours, so you will have to change them very rarely. You can use both lamps and fixtures with built-in LED modules. This type does not get hot when in operation and poses no danger to humans.
By the way! When choosing light bulbs, not only their brightness is taken into account, but also color temperature, the spectrum can be warm, natural or cool.
What are the criteria for choosing track lighting fixtures
Choosing track lighting fixtures on the busbar must take into account several important factors:
- Features of the busbar and its characteristics. It is important to consider the maximum number of fixtures that can be installed, the length of the system and the possibility of connecting not all fixtures, but individual groups.
- Type of lamps, which are used in the plafonds. It is better to give preference to LED equipment as the most economical and durable.
- Lighting color temperature. Here it all depends on the purpose of use. In the kitchen, hallway and other places where perfect visibility is important, it is better to use the cold spectrum. For the workplace, living rooms, hallways and other similar spaces, natural light is optimal. And for bedrooms and places of rest it is better to choose warm lighting, which is soothing and relaxing.
- The type of base that is used in the lights. It is important that there is a type under which it is not difficult to buy lamps when they fail. Often there are problems with the purchase of light sources.
- Operating voltage. There may be two options - the standard, designed for 220 V or low-voltage, operating from a step-down transformer giving out 12 V. The second solution is used on LED systems, which normally work from this voltage and provide a good quality of light.
- What the busbar is made of. It can be either impact-resistant plastic, steel, aluminum or various alloys. It is important and the coating of elements, they come in different colors and are chosen according to the situation. The quality of the coating should also be evaluated, if it is not the best, it will begin to peel after a short time.
- The degree of moisture resistance is important when using track systems in kitchens, bathrooms and other rooms with high levels of humidity. It is denoted by the letters IP, you need models with a class of 44 or higher.
If the track system is used together with other lighting sources, all of them must be made in the same style.
Video overview of 6 track magnet systems.
Options for track systems, how to accentuate the style of the interior
Track lights not only serve their direct purpose well, but also serve as a full-fledged design element. They give a modern look, the main thing is to choose the right kind according to simple tips:
- For modern and classic offer models made in the appropriate style and fit well in such a setting.
- In minimalism It is especially important to have clear lines and brevity. Therefore, simple shapes and white or black colors, which fit this direction and provide the desired effect, are suitable here.
- High-tech - A style that uses track systems in a futuristic version. Here you can use modern models of unusual appearance in chrome or any other housing.
- For loft and techno will suit tracks with massive lights, which in shape can resemble spotlights. Under the industrial style bars are well suited, the choice of options is large.
Use in different rooms
Track lights can be used in different rooms in their own way. To get the best effect, it is worth remembering simple tips:
- В Living room such lighting can serve as auxiliary or decorative, in this case the bars are placed around the perimeter of the room. It is possible to allocate a separate functional area, if there is a need for bright light.
- In hallways and hallways track can replace standard lighting equipment. Due to the long length of the rail and the possibility of adjusting the direction of light is not difficult to adjust the lights so as to illuminate the room.
- For bedroom bus lighting is also a good idea, especially if you want to illuminate the area in front of the dressing room or a mirror. And to create diffuse lighting, you need to direct the light flux into the wall or ceilingto get reflected light.
- At kitchen the track is a good solution for the working or dining area. The main thing is to choose the right size system.
- In the bathroom, it is worth using moisture-resistant systems, flexible tracks are usually the best fit.
- In a house with attic tracks will be a great solution, as they are not difficult to mount on a sloping surface and adjust as needed.
See must-see: Secrets of perfect lighting in the apartment.
Track lighting is a convenient solution that is simple and unusual in appearance. It can be used both as the main and auxiliary. The main thing is to choose a model that will fit into the room.