Manually checking dozens of exit signs and emergency lights every month is tedious. Self-testing (self-diagnostic) exit sign & emergency light combos automate the required monthly and annual tests, then surface pass/fail via a simple status LED—saving time and helping you stay inspection-ready. This guide explains how automatic monthly/annual testing works, the benefits, and what to know about UL 924 / NFPA 101 compliance. For models, see Self-Testing Exit Light Combos. For fundamentals, read the pillar: Exit Sign & Emergency Light Combo – Ultimate Guide.
Last updated: October 2025
At-a-Glance
- Automatic tests: monthly ~30-second functional test + annual 90-minute discharge—run by the unit.
- Simple indicators: bi-color status LED shows pass/fail; fault codes flag battery, charger, or lamp issues.
- UL 924 / NFPA 101 ready: designed to meet national listing and life-safety testing intervals.
- Less labor: no more “push-to-test” marathons; walk-by LED checks and annual log updates instead.
- Available across lines: pairs with die-cast, steel, wet-location, and remote-capable combo families.
What Does “Self-Testing / Self-Diagnostic” Mean?
A self-testing (self-diagnostic) combo has an onboard controller that automatically simulates power failures on a schedule, monitors the battery/charger/LEDs during those tests, and stores or signals results. Instead of climbing ladders to press a test button every month, staff confirm the status LED shows “pass,” and investigate only when a fault is indicated.
How Automatic Monthly / Annual Testing Works
- Monthly quick test (~30 s): the controller cuts AC to simulate an outage; heads run on battery; the unit verifies lamp, battery, and transfer.
- Annual full test (90 min): once per year (or per manufacturer schedule) the unit runs a full 90-minute discharge to confirm runtime at the installed load.
- Status reporting: a green LED indicates the last test passed; red/flash patterns indicate faults (battery, charger, lamp/board, or wiring).
- User task: perform a monthly walk-through to verify LEDs, and record the annual 90-minute test in your maintenance log.
Many models allow scheduling (night hours) and a manual “push-to-test” for spot checks or inspector demos.
Benefits of Self-Diagnostic Exit Sign Combos
- Labor savings: automatic tests eliminate most manual button-press checks across large campuses.
- Proactive repairs: early fault alerts reduce the risk of discovering a dead unit during a real outage.
- Consistency: tests run on schedule—even if staffing is thin—improving compliance reliability.
- Inspection-friendly: clear pass/fail indicators and annual log entries simplify AHJ reviews.
- Lower disruption: short monthly tests can be scheduled off-hours; annual tests planned in low-traffic windows.
Compliance & Standards (UL 924, NFPA 101, Local Rules)
- UL 924 listing: confirms automatic transfer to battery, sign legibility, and ≥ 90-minute emergency operation at rated load.
- NFPA 101 testing: monthly functional test (~30 s) and an annual 90-minute discharge; self-testing units automate the procedure, but you still log results.
- Recordkeeping: keep a simple log by location (date, pass/fail, corrective action). Some models support fault history or remote annunciation.
- Local variations: verify letter size/color and housing requirements where applicable (e.g., NYC, Chicago). Choose self-testing models that also meet those city specs.
Choosing Features & Options
- Housing & finish: architectural die-cast for front-of-house; rugged steel for back-of-house.
- Environment: wet-location/IP/NEMA ratings for exterior or wash-down; cold-weather kits for low ambients.
- Output: standard vs. high-lumen heads and corridor optics for longer spacing.
- Remote-capable: if you need extra coverage, pick a remote-capable self-testing model and size the remote watt budget.
- Serviceability: front-access panels and clear LED code charts speed troubleshooting and battery swaps.
Installation, Scheduling & Commissioning Tips
- Unswitched feed: supply from an unswitched branch so charging and tests aren’t defeated by wall switches.
- Label & locate: label each device location; keep the status LED visible from the floor for walk-by checks.
- Schedule tests: set monthly quick tests during off-hours and plan the annual 90-minute test when occupancy is low.
- Baseline check: run a manual test after install, then log the first annual test date.
- Battery lifecycle: replace per manufacturer guidance or when the annual test shows reduced runtime.
FAQs
Does self-testing replace manual testing?
It replaces the procedure—not the oversight. You still verify indicators monthly and document the annual 90-minute test for your records.
What if the LED shows a fault?
Check the legend/head lamps, battery connections, charger board, and branch circuit. Most manuals include LED code charts for quick diagnosis.
Will monthly tests disturb occupants?
Monthly tests are brief (~30 s) and can be scheduled off-hours. The annual 90-minute test should also be planned during low-traffic times.
Can existing signs be upgraded to self-testing?
Generally no. Self-diagnostic functions are integrated at the factory. Replace legacy units with self-testing models to gain full benefits.