This long-form resource explains edge-lit exit signs—how they work, where they shine, how to choose mounting and letter color, what codes require, and how they compare to standard and combo units. It also includes product-by-product notes for 13 models and a detailed feature comparison chart to speed up spec and purchasing.
Last updated: August 2025
Quick Picks
Pick Your Mount
- Universal mount: wall, ceiling, or end/flag canopy from one SKU.
- Recessed: ultra-clean look; housing hides in ceiling or wall.
- Pendant kits: use for high ceilings and open atriums.
Color & Compliance
- Most areas allow red or green letters—confirm with local AHJ.
- NYC/Chicago versions available when required.
- Order wet/damp or haz-loc ratings where needed.
Power & Runtime
- AC-only (no battery) or battery backup ≥ 90 minutes (UL 924).
- Some models are remote-capable for extra heads.
- Self-test options reduce manual checks.
Overview
Thanks to efficient LEDs, edge-lit signs draw only ~3–5 watts (double-face) and even less for single-face. They run cool, resist heat damage, and commonly carry a 5-year warranty on electronics/LED strips. Some premium models extend parts coverage much longer (one in the chart below offers a 25-year light-source warranty). Expect many years of service with minimal upkeep beyond periodic battery replacement on backup models.
Edge-Lit Exit Sign Feature Comparison
| Model | Mounting Type | Battery Backup | Remote Capable | NYC Approved | Chicago Approved | CSA / Running Man | Hazardous Location Rated | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edge-Lit Exit Sign – Stair, Aluminum | Surface | Yes (120 min) | No | No | Yes | No | No | 5 Years |
| Edge-Lit Recessed Exit Sign – Stair | Recessed | Yes (120 min) | No | No | Yes | No | No | 5 Years |
| Swivel-Mount Edge-Lit Exit Sign | Universal | Yes (90 min) | No | No | No | No | No | 5 Years |
| Recessed Edge-lit Aluminum Exit Sign | Recessed | Yes (90 min) | No | No | No | No | No | 5 Years |
| Edge-Lit LED Exit Sign – Surface & Recessed Mounting | Universal | Yes (90 min, LiFePO4) | No | No | Yes | No | No | 5 Years |
| Edge-Lit Running-Man Exit Sign – Surface or Recessed, CSA Listed | Universal | Yes (90 min) | No | No | No | Yes | No | 5 Years |
| Edge-Lit Exit Sign – Recessed, NYC 8" | Recessed | Yes (90 min) | No | Yes | No | No | No | 5 Years |
| Edge-Lit LED Exit & Emergency Combo – Recessed Heads | Universal | Yes (90 min) | Yes | No | No | No | No | 5 Years |
| NYC Edge-Lit LED Exit & Emergency Combo | Universal | Yes (90 min) | Yes | Yes | No | No | No | 5 Years |
| Edge-Lit LED Exit Sign – Universal Mount (Aluminum) | Universal | Yes (90 min) | No | No | No | No | No | 25 Years |
| Edge-Lit LED Exit Sign – Connecticut Code, Wheelchair Symbol | Universal | Yes (90 or 120 min) | No | No | No | No | No | 5 Years |
| Explosion Proof Edge-Lit Exit Sign – Class I, II, III | 180 Min Backup | Wall/Pendant | Yes (180 min) | No | No | No | No | Yes (Class I Div 2) | 5 Years |
| Explosion-Proof Edge-Lit LED Exit Sign – Class I Div 1 | Wall/Pendant | Yes (180 min) | No | No | No | No | Yes (Class I Div 1) | 5 Years |
Mounting Options
Edge-lit exit signs offer versatile configurations. Most are universal mount (ceiling, wall, or end/flag) via an included canopy. Others support recessed installation for a flush, architectural look. Pendant kits are available for high-ceiling spaces.
Surface installations use a low-profile canopy that attaches to a standard J-box; many panels can rotate to accommodate sloped ceilings. Recessed versions include housings for grid or gypsum ceilings with spring clips or bar hangers. Single-face panels serve wall installs; double-face units provide two-sided visibility (often with a mirror divider). All options typically include field-applied chevrons (directional arrows).
Red vs. Green Edge-Lit Signs
Letter color is often set by local code or AHJ preference. National standards require distinct, legible, continuously illuminated letters but do not mandate a single color. Many jurisdictions allow either red or green; some specify one or the other. Visibility differs by environment: green often excels in smoke/darkness and long sightlines, while red can pop in bright, high-ambient spaces or where tradition dictates.
Always confirm with your fire marshal. Some models provide field-selectable panels (red/green) for flexibility across sites.
Compliance & Safety Standards
- Lettering: 6" high, ~3/4" stroke; distinct color; continuously illuminated when occupied. (Externally lit faces typically target ≥ 5 foot-candles.)
- UL 924 listing: Battery-backup versions provide ≥ 90 minutes illumination; dual-voltage input (120/277 V) is common.
- Local amendments: NYC often requires 8" red letters with metal housing; Chicago requires robust construction per local code. Look for models specifically labeled NYC Approved or Chicago Approved.
- Environment: Order wet-location ratings for weather exposure and Class I Division 1/2 for hazardous locations where applicable. Canada uses CSA Running Man pictograms instead of “EXIT.”
Edge-Lit vs. Standard vs. Combo Exit Signs
- Aesthetics: Edge-lit panels “float” and suit public-facing spaces; standard plastic signs are more utilitarian.
- Emergency lighting: Combos integrate lamp heads; edge-lit signs are typically standalone—pair with separate emergency lights if needed.
- Materials: Many edge-lit units use aluminum housings and acrylic/polycarbonate panels; NYC may require metal.
- Mounting: Edge-lit supports recessed and slope-friendly options; standard signs rarely recess.
Mix and match: use edge-lit in lobbies and corridors; deploy economical standard signs in back-of-house areas.
Lifespan & Maintenance
LED sources commonly rate 50,000–100,000 hours (10+ years). Backup batteries (NiCad/Lithium) often last ~5–10 years; plan replacements around the 5-year mark. Run monthly function checks and an annual 90-minute test (or use self-testing models) and keep lenses clean.
Cost Difference
Edge-lit signs cost more upfront than basic plastic LED signs due to acrylic light guides, premium housings, and flexible mounting hardware. Typical price deltas run ~50–150% depending on finish and features, while energy use across LED signs remains low in all cases. Choose edge-lit when aesthetics and flexibility matter; choose standard when budget dominates.
Installation Complexity
Installer-friendly designs use universal canopies, quick-connect wiring, and accessible test switches. Surface mounting mirrors typical light-fixture steps. Recessed installs require a ceiling/wall cutout and housing support but include templates and hardware. Power off, follow the spec sheet, and coordinate chevrons and orientation before finalizing.
Hazardous Location Rated Exit Signs
For sites with flammable gases, vapors, or dusts, choose Class I Div 1/2 edge-lit models with sealed, heavy-duty enclosures. Examples in the chart: CP-E (Div 2) and CP-EXP (Div 1), each with ~180-minute backup.
Wet vs. Damp Location Ratings
Damp-location labels suit humidity and occasional moisture (parking garages, covered walkways). Wet-location models handle direct water exposure and often carry IP65 or NEMA 4X construction. Match rating to environment to prevent failures and extend life.
Edge-lit signs replace opaque faces with illuminated acrylic for a minimal, “floating” EXIT legend—ideal where design matters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are edge-lit exit signs code-compliant?
Yes—when UL 924-listed and installed per NFPA 101/OSHA and local amendments. Battery models must provide ≥ 90 minutes during outages.
Do I need red or green letters?
It depends on your jurisdiction. Many allow either; some specify one color. Confirm with your AHJ before ordering.
What about NYC or Chicago?
Order models specifically marked NYC Approved or Chicago Approved to meet city-specific construction and legend requirements.
Can I recess an edge-lit sign?
Yes—recessed models hide the housing in the ceiling or wall for a flush look. Verify grid vs gypsum compatibility in the spec sheet.
How often should I replace the battery?
Plan around ~5 years, depending on technology and conditions. Run monthly and annual tests or use self-testing units.
Are there hazardous-location edge-lit options?
Yes—see Explosion Proof Edge-Lit Exit Sign (Div 2) and Explosion-Proof Edge-Lit LED Exit Sign (Div 1) in the comparison chart.
Summary
Edge-lit exit signs pair a clean, modern look with rigorous life-safety performance. With universal or recessed mounting, red/green options, city-specific approvals, and wet/hazardous ratings, they fit varied sites. Low energy use, long LED life, and simple testing make them a dependable, low-maintenance choice for offices, healthcare, education, retail, and high-rise environments.
Download Edge-Lit Exit Sign Buyers Guide (PDF)