End Mount Emergency Lights

FAQs About End Mount Emergency Lights

What is an end-mount emergency light, and when is it the right choice?

An end-mount emergency light installs on the sidewall (often near a door frame or mullion) with the housing’s “end” against the surface. It’s ideal where ceiling mounting isn’t practical and where lateral light coverage along a corridor is needed.

Where should I place an end-mount near door frames or mullions?

Center the base on solid structure (stud, mullion, or box) just beyond the door swing and above typical head-clearance. Keep the lens and heads out of the door arc and ensure service access to the test switch and battery compartment.

What mounting height and head aiming work best for corridors?

Mount high enough for clear sightlines and to minimize glare (commonly 7.5–9 ft AFF, as allowed by site conditions). Aim heads down the egress path (not straight out) to “graze” the corridor and improve uniformity. Verify with photometric data and your AHJ.

Do end-mount units need a specific junction box or backplate?

Most ship with a universal backplate for common 4-inch square/octagon or single-gang boxes and include hardware. Check the cut sheet for box depth, knockout locations, and any canopy/adapter requirements unique to end-mounting.

Can I orient an end-mount left or right? Does it affect coverage?

Yes—end-mounts are typically non-handed, and adjustable heads let you aim either direction. Orientation doesn’t change total output, but head aiming and nearby obstructions will affect real-world coverage—confirm with manufacturer photometrics.

How do I avoid door-swing and corridor protrusion issues?

Keep the fixture outside the door swing envelope and check local protruding-object limits for corridors (often a 4-inch maximum projection in the 27–80 inch AFF zone). Confirm final placement with your AHJ and accessibility official.

Are remote-capable end-mount models available?

Yes. Many end-mount units can power remote heads. Verify available remote wattage on the label, account for cable length/voltage drop, and confirm that adding remotes still preserves the required 90-minute runtime.

Can end-mount lights be used in wet or cold entryways?

Choose models with the appropriate rating—damp or wet location, gasketed housings, and optional cold-weather packages. Verify the ambient temperature range and any heater requirements before placement near exterior doors.

Are low-profile or tamper-resistant end-mount housings available?

Yes. Low-profile designs reduce corridor projection, and tamper-resistant housings or guards help in high-abuse areas like gyms and transit corridors. Confirm impact ratings and fastener types if vandal resistance is a concern.

How do I plan spacing between end-mounted fixtures in long corridors?

Use the manufacturer’s spacing tables/IES files at your planned mounting height and corridor width. Layouts must meet egress illumination targets (average and minimum) for the full 90 minutes—run a quick calc or have your supplier provide one.

Can I convert a surface unit to an end-mount with a canopy or kit?

Many models accept a universal canopy or dedicated end-mount adapter. Check the accessory list to ensure compatibility and maintain the UL 924 listing when changing the mounting method.

What wiring considerations apply to sidewall/end mounting?

Plan conduit/cable entry per the knockout pattern, allow clearance for strain relief, and keep wiring within the rated temperature and enclosure class. Seal penetrations where required and follow the unit’s polarity and branch-circuit labeling.