The 3 Most Common Mistakes When Installing LED Track Lighting

LED track lighting is a flexible and efficient solution for warehouses, offices, stores and showroom environments. However, in practice we often see that track lighting is not used optimally. As a result, light quality is lost, the system consumes more energy, or it simply underperforms. Below are the three most common mistakes — and more importantly: how to avoid them.

1. Choosing the wrong track configuration

A frequent mistake is using the wrong type of track. For example, 1-phase track lighting is sometimes installed in places where independently switchable groups are required. With 3-phase tracks, you can control zones separately, which is ideal for retail and project lighting. Here’s how to approach it:

● Determine how many switching groups you need.

● Choose the track type that fits your lighting plan: 1-phase or 3-phase.

In addition, not every track spot fits every track. Especially with 1-phase rail systems, we often see customers trying to combine track spots with other systems that physically fit but are not electrically compatible. This can cause malfunctions or overload.

2. Incorrect placement of track spots

Track spots are often mounted too high, too low or at the wrong angle. This leads to glare or uneven lighting. In product presentations, this can reduce visual impact by up to 30%. That’s why it is important to place track spots at a height of 2.8–4 meters. Use adjustable angles to minimise stray light and aim spots at contrast zones for a professional appearance.

3. Insufficient light calculation beforehand

Many businesses install LED track lighting without performing a light calculation in advance. The result: dark zones, inconsistent lighting or over-illumination. It is highly recommended to have a lighting plan drawn up to ensure sufficient lux levels in all required areas.

With proper preparation, you get the most out of your track lighting. By choosing the right configuration, placing track spots correctly and checking compatibility carefully, you avoid the most common mistakes.