Recessed Emergency Lights

Recessed emergency lights hide the fixture body above the ceiling so only a clean trim is visible—delivering code-required egress illumination for 90 minutes without visual clutter. Specify flush downlights for corridors and stair runs, use spacing charts for your mounting height, and keep sightlines pristine in lobbies and galleries. See all emergency lights, and compare low-profile alternatives in architectural emergency lights.

Flush Ceiling Trim LED Egress Output Photometric Spacing 90-Min Runtime Ceiling Recessed Self-Testing (select)
Buyers Guide Tips

What to Look for in Recessed Emergency Lights

  • Photometrics at height: Select output/optics that achieve required foot-candles on the floor at 90 minutes for your ceiling height and aisle width; use manufacturer spacing charts and lock head aim after commissioning.
  • Ceiling & plenum fit: Verify rough-in aperture, can depth, and plenum clearance for T-bar vs. hard ceilings; confirm bar hangers, flanges, and any fire-rated or IC requirements before cutout.
  • Service access: Ensure battery/charger access (from below or above ceiling) and that the status LED/push-to-test remain visible from the floor; self-testing (select) reduces lift time for monthly/annual checks.
  • Environment & finish: Match trims to the interior (round/square, matte/metal), and check ambient range; add heater options for cold zones to preserve 90-minute capacity.

Place recessed emergency lights where trims blend into ceiling lines yet heads can wash the floor evenly; confirm spacing at your mounting height using photometric files and re-check at the 90-minute mark. Coordinate cutouts, can depth, and plenum access with ceiling trades to keep the opening clean and serviceable.

In galleries, lobbies, and corridors, use asymmetric optics to reduce glare on glass and polished floors. Keep the status LED and push-to-test visible from the floor, and consider self-testing to minimize lift time for monthly/annual checks.

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Recessed Emergency Lights - Specs & Features

  • Output & optics: LED egress downlights with symmetric/asymmetric distributions; use spacing charts to maintain required foot-candles at the 90-minute point for your ceiling height.
  • Rough-in & trim: IC/non-IC housings, bar hangers, and flanges for T-bar or drywall; verify can depth, aperture size, and plenum clearance so trims sit flush and clean.
  • Power & backup: 120/277 VAC input, solid-state charger, documented recharge time; battery chemistries (Ni-Cd/Li) matched to ambient to ensure 90-min runtime (heater options for cold zones).
  • Access & diagnostics: Below-ceiling or above-ceiling service access; floor-visible status LED and push-to-test; self-testing (select) automates monthly/annual verification.

FAQs About Recessed Emergency Lights

Do recessed emergency lights work in IC or fire-rated ceilings?

Yes—choose the correct housing. IC-rated cans are designed for contact with insulation; non-IC require clearance. For fire-rated assemblies, specify listed fire-rated housings or approved firestop kits per the ceiling’s rating and local code.

How do I confirm 90-minute egress levels with recessed downlights?

Use the manufacturer’s photometric files/spacing charts for your mounting height and aisle width, aim heads (or select beam spreads), and field-verify with a light meter at the 90-minute mark—not just at initial output.

Where is the battery and how is service performed in a recessed install?

Batteries/chargers are typically in the recessed housing or a nearby ceiling plenum box. Ensure below-ceiling or above-ceiling access per the submittal, and keep the status LED/push-to-test visible from floor level to speed inspections.

Any tips to reduce glare on polished floors or glass walls?

Select asymmetric optics or aim heads at a shallow angle to “wash” the floor. Avoid pointing directly at reflective surfaces and lock adjustments after commissioning to keep the beam where it belongs.