Exit Signs Buyer Tips
Electrically powered exit signs use either incandescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) or light-emitting diode (LED) arrays as light sources. Most LED and some CFL EXIT SIGNS meet this Recommendation. Due to their low power draw, LED Exit Sign can be purchased with built-in back-up power supplies (i.e., batteries). With an estimated service life of 10 years or more, LEDs require significantly fewer lamp replacements than exit signs equipped with either incandescents or CFLs.
Non-electrically powered photo-luminescent (PL) exit signs utilize a glow-in-the-dark material to provide illumination. While PL exit signs do not require a direct connection to a source of electrical power to operate, they must be charged by another light source in order to function properly. Therefore, PL exit signs are not suitable for all applications. In locations with proper charging sources, PL exit signs can have an unlimited service life.
To ensure reliability, ENERGY STAR® requires that manufacturers replace defective parts for at least five years from date of purchase and that labled products be UL 924 listed. Be sure to check state or local codes before selecting exit signs.
Exit signs that utilize incandescent light bulbs should not be purchased by federal agencies. In federal buildings where they are still in use, facility managers should replace them immediately. In some locations, it may even be cost effective to replace exit signs that use CFLs with those that use LEDs or PLs
Retrofits
Retrofitting existing exit signs may be more economical than replacing them, but proper installation is vital to ensuring adequate visibility. The ENERGY STAR® program does not cover retrofit kits.