Track lighting not working

Symptoms

• One or more heads on the track are dark while others work
• Entire track is dark
• Flickering or intermittent lighting along the track

Likely causes

• CommonA burned-out bulb in one headIndividual track heads fail independently just like any fixture.
• CommonA head not properly locked into the track connectorTrack heads need to be twisted or clicked fully into place to make contact.
• PossibleA tripped breaker or failed switch for the whole trackWorth checking if the entire track, not just one head, is dark.
• PossibleA loose connection at the track's power feed connectorThis is where the track connects to house wiring and can loosen over time.
• Less commonA damaged section of trackPhysical damage to the track itself can interrupt power to heads beyond that point.

What to do

1. Replace the bulb in any single dark head first.
2. Check that each head is fully seated and locked into the track, not just resting in place.
3. Check the breaker panel and wall switch if the entire track is dark.
4. Turn off the breaker before inspecting the power feed connector where the track meets the ceiling box.
5. Look for a visibly loose or damaged section of track if some heads past a certain point are dark.
6. Reseat or tighten the power feed connector if it looks loose.
7. Call an electrician if the power feed connection or track wiring itself needs repair.

Tools and parts

• Step ladder
• Screwdriver

When to call a pro

Call an electrician if the power feed connector or the track wiring itself needs repair.

Safety