FAQ: Why Don't Battery Operated Exit Signs Exist?

One of the most frequently asked exit sign questions is, why is there no such thing as a battery operated exit sign?

For many, a battery operated exit sign would be an easy and quick solution to their exit sign project.

Self-luminous exit signs are completely non-electrical, no wires, bulbs, or electrician needed!

Installing an electrically powered exit sign requires an electrician and hiring an electrician can be expensive. Depending on the type of installation, hiring an electrician to install an exit sign can cost between $150-$300 per exit sign needed.

For new construction, the cost of running conduit and installing electrical exit signs is estimated completed by the project's electrical contractor. Battery operated exit signs would eliminate this cost, which can easily reach $30,000+ for a decent sized commercial building.

For retrofit projects, where an exit sign needs to be installed into a previously constructed building, a battery operated exit sign would eliminate not only the cost, but the time and hassle associated with the install.

So then, how come battery operated exit signs do not exist?

It simply comes down to the amount of constant electricity required to operate the exit sign compared to the amount of electricity a battery is able to put out over a given period of time.

It is true that electrical exit signs contain batteries, but these exit sign batteries are only designed to be used during an emergency power outage. On a normal charge, the battery inside an exit sign will last 90 minutes. This provides ample time for occupants to safely exit the building or facility.

Photoluminescent exit signs are a non-electrical, UL Listed, and code compliant. Long-lasting and reliable!

There is no battery powerful enough to constantly operate an exit sign for more than a few hours that can fit into the inside of the sign's housing. It's simply impossible.

But, there is a solution for those looking for an exit sign that does not use electricity.

There are two types of non-electrical exit signs:

Self-Luminous Exit Signs - This non-electrical, self-powered exit signs glows on its own with absolutely no power source needed. Self-luminous exit signs utilize tritium gas, which constantly glows green for up to 20 years. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use in all types of commercial applications.

Learn more about Self-Luminous Exit Signs

View our Self-Luminous Exit Signs

Photoluminescent Exit Signs - This type of non-electrical exit sign uses glow-in-the-dark technology to illuminate in dark environments. These exit signs absorb light in normal conditions and then glow during emergency power outages. Suitable for commercial interior use.

Learn more about Photoluminescent Exit Signs

View our Photoluminescent Exit Signs

Call us at 800-480-0707 for help right now to place an order, request a quote, or ask for more information. All of the products we offer are code compliant and UL Listed for the United States. Our friendly staff of customer service representatives is standing by.