This resource explains wet location emergency lights—what they are, how wet vs. damp ratings work, which specs to prioritize (runtime, output, remote-capable, operating temperature), and how certifications (UL 924, NFPA 101, NEMA/IP) affect compliance. It also includes a 19‑model comparison, a feature checklist, and practical use‑case recommendations.
Last updated: September 3, 2025
Quick Picks
Choose the Correct Rating
- Wet location listed: Direct rain/spray exposure.
- Damp only ≠ wet: Covered or humid areas only.
- NEMA/IP: 3R/4/4X or IP65/66 for wash‑down/jetting.
Right‑Size Output & Runtime
- 90‑minute minimum: UL 924 / NFPA 101.
- Remote‑capable: Extra watts for remote heads.
- Cold‑weather options: Heaters/chemistry for freezing.
Verify Compliance
- UL 924 + Wet location on the label/spec sheet.
- OSHA/NEC install & power requirements.
- Local approvals: NYC/Chicago if applicable.
What Are Wet‑Location Emergency Lights?
Wet‑location emergency lights provide code‑required egress illumination in areas exposed to rain, spray, hose‑down, condensation, or high humidity. They connect to normal power and switch to an internal battery during outages. Unlike standard indoor units, they use sealed, gasketed housings to protect batteries, boards, and LEDs from moisture intrusion.
Key Considerations
- Wet Location Listing: UL 924 emergency + explicit “Wet Location” rating; check NEMA 3R/4/4X or IP65/66 as needed.
- Voltage: 120/277V dual‑voltage simplifies installation.
- Battery Backup: Minimum 90 minutes; consider extended runtime or remote‑capable wattage.
- Remote Capacity: For additional heads powered from the unit; verify available watts (e.g., 6V/27W).
- Operating Temperature: Cold‑weather models for outdoor/freezer use.
- Mounting: Wall, ceiling, recessed/semi‑recessed—match architecture and coverage.
- Self‑Testing: Reduces manual maintenance; automates monthly/annual tests.
- Optics & Aim: Adjustable heads/optics help cover stairs, corners, and long paths.
Environments & When Required
Use wet‑location units anywhere fixtures face direct water, splashing, or persistent moisture:
- Exterior exits, stairways, perimeters, loading docks, and parking decks
- Commercial kitchens, wash‑down areas, and car washes
- Cold storage or walk‑in freezers (condensation/icing)
- Food processing areas requiring NSF/NEMA 4X equipment
Certifications & Standards
- UL 924: Emergency performance (incl. 90‑minute illumination).
- NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code): Egress lighting requirements.
- OSHA: Workplace life‑safety enforcement.
- NEC: Articles 410 & 700 govern luminaires and emergency circuits.
- NEMA/IP: 3R/4/4X or IP65/66 for outdoor/wash‑down durability.
- Local approvals: NYC/Chicago where required; NSF for food areas.
Water‑Resistant vs. Waterproof
- Water‑resistant: Brief moisture/splashes—typically damp location only.
- Waterproof: Direct rain/spray/snow—wet location listed; often NEMA 4X or IP65/66.
Visibility & Photometrics
- Standard output: Corridors/low ceilings; typical 2‑head LED coverage ~20–30 ft.
- High‑lumen: Warehouses/garages/open areas; MR16/high‑watt heads extend throw.
- Beam control: Adjustable heads/optics to reach stairs, corners, long paths.
- Spacing data: Use IES/spacing guides (often 12–20 ft baseline, ceiling‑height dependent).
Reliability & Battery Backup
- Battery types: Sealed lead‑acid, NiCd, or NiMH; maintenance‑free.
- Low‑voltage disconnect: Protects battery from over‑discharge.
- Self‑test circuitry: Automates monthly/annual tests.
- Remote capacity: Verify watts (e.g., 6V/27W) for added heads.
- Warranty: 5‑year prorated battery is a quality signal.
Materials & Aesthetics
- Thermoplastic: Lightweight, corrosion‑resistant; look for UL 94 5VA.
- Polycarbonate: Impact‑resistant lenses/housings; good for NSF areas.
- Die‑cast aluminum: Premium outdoor durability; architectural finishes.
- Steel: Heavy‑duty; sometimes required (e.g., NYC).
- NEMA 4X/fiberglass: Harsh wash‑down environments; gasketed seals.
Comparison of 19 Wet‑Location Emergency Lighting Models
Use this table to scan voltage, runtime capacity, construction, and ratings. Verify remote‑capable watts and temperature ranges on the spec sheet before selection.
| Model | Voltage | Wattage / Remote Capable | Material | Mounting | NEMA/IP Rating | Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LEDR-1 | 120/277V | 2W per head / No | Thermoplastic | Wall | Damp-rated | UL 924 |
| RMR-16-WP | 120/277V | Up to 27W / Yes | Steel | Semi-Recessed | NEMA 4X | UL 924, NYC |
| TRL | 120/277V | Up to 20W / Yes | Die-Cast Aluminum | Wall | Wet Location | UL 924 |
| DBEL-ACEM-HL | 120/277V | Dual AC Mode / No Battery | Die-Cast Aluminum | Wall | Wet Location | UL, AC-Only Emergency Light |
| NF5 | 120/277V | 5W / Yes | Die-Cast Aluminum | Wall | IP66 / Wet Location | UL 924 |
| RHL16ED | 6V, 12V, or 24V | MR16 LED / Remote Head | Polycarbonate | Ceiling / Wall | Indoor | UL Recognized Remote Head |
| NYDXR | 120/277V | 12W / No | Steel | Wall | Wet Location | UL 924, NYC Approved |
| LEDSDX627 | 120/277V | Up to 27W / Yes | Steel | Wall | Wet Location | UL 924 |
| LEDR-5HO | 120/277V | 5W High Output / Yes | Thermoplastic | Wall | Wet Location | UL 924 |
| LEDR-7 | 120/277V | 7W / Yes | Steel / Recessed | Ceiling / Wall | Wet Location | UL 924 |
| LEDR-2 | 120/277V | 2W per head / No | Thermoplastic | Wall | Wet Location | UL 924 |
| HPRL | 6V, 12V, 24V | Remote Head Only | Polycarbonate | Ceiling / Wall | Indoor | UL Recognized Remote Head |
| HPEM | 120/277V | 5.4W / No | Thermoplastic | Wall | Wet Location | UL 924 |
| LL50H-N4 | 120/277V | 14.4W / No | Steel | Wall | NEMA 4 | UL 924 |
| INDRHLED | 6V, 12V, 24V | Remote Head Only | Polycarbonate | Ceiling / Wall | NEMA 4X / NSF | UL Recognized Remote Head |
| HPRL-Outdoor | 6V, 12V, 24V | Remote Head Only | Polycarbonate | Wall / Ceiling | NEMA 4X / Wet Location | UL Recognized Remote Head |
| MRHLED-Outdoor | 6V, 12V, 24V | Remote Head Only | Polycarbonate | Wall / Ceiling | Wet Location | UL Recognized Remote Head |
| HLEMR16 | 6V | 16W / No | Die-Cast Aluminum | Wall | Class I Div 2 / Wet Location | UL 924, Hazardous Location |
| INDEMR16 | 6V | 16W / No | Polycarbonate | Wall / Ceiling | NEMA 4X / NSF | UL 924, NSF |
Note: “Remote‑capable” indicates internal battery capacity to power additional external heads. Confirm remote wattage and temperature limits per installation.
Feature Checklist by Model
Snapshot of common features across selected models. “Optional” indicates factory/kit options on certain variants.
| Product | Wet Listed | NEMA/IP | Remote‑Capable | Self‑Testing | Cold‑Weather | NYC/Chicago |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LEDR‑2 | Yes | — | No | Optional | Optional | — |
| LEDR‑5HO | Yes | — | Yes | Optional | Optional | — |
| LEDSDX627 | Yes | — | Yes | Optional | Optional | — |
| RMR‑16‑WP | Yes | NEMA 4X | Yes | Optional | Yes | NYC |
| NF5 | Yes | IP66 | Yes | Optional | Yes | — |
| NYDXR | Yes | — | No | Optional | Optional | NYC |
| LL50H‑N4 | Yes | NEMA 4 | No | Optional | Yes | — |
| HLEMR16 | Yes | — | No | Optional | Yes | — |
| INDEMR16 | Yes | NEMA 4X / NSF | No | Optional | Yes | — |
| DBEL‑ACEM‑HL | Yes (AC‑only) | — | — | — | — | — |
Availability of options varies by configuration. Always confirm on the product spec sheet.
Recommendations by Use‑Case
- Budget outdoor egress: HPEM, LEDR‑2 (wet‑listed basic 2‑head units).
- High‑output / long throws: LEDR‑5HO, LEDR‑7, TRL (aimable heads, more watts).
- Remote head systems: LEDSDX627 or RMR‑16‑WP paired with MR16 remote heads.
- Cold‑storage / freezing: LL50H‑N4, NF5 with appropriate temperature kits.
- Food/NSF areas: INDEMR16, INDRHLED (NEMA 4X/NSF hardware).
- NYC compliance: NYDXR.
- Hazardous location: HLEMR16 (Class I, Div 2).
- AC‑only emergency circuits: DBEL‑ACEM‑HL.
Summary
Match the environment to the rating (wet vs. damp) and verify UL 924 plus wet‑location listing. Right‑size runtime, remote capacity, output, and temperature range. Use NEMA/IP ratings for wash‑down or jet exposure and consider self‑testing to simplify maintenance.
Download Wet Location Emergency Lights – Complete Buyer’s Guide (PDF)