GENERAL QUESTIONS
Q. Are there different track finishes available?
A. Yes! The track comes in satin anodized (silver) or white.
Q. What if I want to paint the track?
A. Use the satin anodized finish - it’s receptive to all types of paint.
Q. Is the track pre-drilled?
A. No, because the hole spacing depends on the type of wall construction.
Q. Is the track easy to install?
A. Yes, installing is a basic handyman job (we provide instructions and hints).
Q. What is the best height for the track?
A. Every installation is different, but very often placing the track at or near ceiling level (at almost any height) creates the cleanest appearance and leaves the most wall area clear for display. However, if the lighting option will be used, tracks should not be mounted more than 9 feet above floor level. Also, a few inches of overhead clearance above the track will be needed for installation of the light wands.
Q. Can you hang more than one picture on each hanger?
A. Yes, as many as you like, but observe the weight limits:
- Clear Tape System: Recommended weight on one picture hook is 22 pounds so pictures up to 45 pounds can be supported with two hooks. You may hang more than one picture hook on each tape hanger, but the total weight on a hanger should not exceed 33 pounds.
- Stainless Steel Cable System: Recommended weight on one picture hook is 45 pounds so pictures up to 90 pounds can be supported with two hooks. You may hang more than one picture hook on each cable hanger, but the total weight should not exceed 66 pounds.
Many questions can be answered with a free sample of our hanging system — we would be glad to send you one. Call us at 800-460-8703 or e-mail inquiries@gallerysystem.com
LIGHTING SYSTEM QUESTIONS
Q. Can the Gallery Lighting System be fitted to existing Gallery System installations?
A. Yes, as long as there are a few inches of clearance between the track and the ceiling for attachment of the light wands.
Q. How many lights will run off one transformer?
A. One 300 watt transformer will run up to twelve 20 watt lamps.
Q. What length of track can be fed by one transformer?
A. Generally 50 to 60 feet. The power input to the track should be near the center of the total length of track. Low voltage will not travel long distances the way 120 volt power does.
Q. Do I need an electrical contractor to install the system?
A. You are not legally obliged to use a licensed contractor with low voltage systems. Simple installations can be done by a handyman familiar with electrical systems, but if in doubt use a contractor. For any work on 120 volt wiring you must use a licensed contractor.
Q. How does the current reach the lamp?
A. Power is carried by a flat cable that is hidden in the channel on top of the wall-mounted track. When a light wand is locked into the track, sharp probes on the wand’s base penetrate the cable to draw the 12-volt power.
Q. How do I carry the power around corners?
A. The power cable bends around the corners. We offer track corner covers to hide the cable or you can mitre the tracks to fit in a corner.
Q. Are the lamps adjustable vertically?
A. Yes. The lamp slides along the curved stainless steel rods so you can aim the light anywhere from 24 inches below the track down to floor level. Also, tracks should not be mounted higher than 9 feet above floor level when using the lighting system.
Q. Is the Gallery Lighting System the only lighting needed in a hanging area?
A. No. The system is designed to highlight the art so you will still need to provide ambient lighting in the room.
Q. Can the lights damage artwork?
A. No, as long as the correct lamps are used. Poor quality lamps can generate excess heat and/or ultraviolet light, either of which can damage artwork. We cannot over-emphasize the importance of using the correct lamp.
The only incandescent lamp that we know of guaranteed as suitable for art, is the “Precise Constant Color” lamp by G.E. These lamps are used in major public galleries. The average life of this lamp is around 6000 hours, or roughly 2 years of daily use.
LED lamps that draw less current and have longer life can also be used and are safe for art.
Call us at 800-460-8703 or e-mail us at inquiries@gallerysystem.com.