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Recessed Exit Signs

Recessed exit signs are the ideal choice for architects and facility managers who want clean ceiling or wall lines while meeting life-safety codes. These UL 924 listed fixtures install nearly flush to the surface for a modern, streamlined appearance—perfect for high-end offices, universities, theaters, healthcare environments, and hospitality interiors.

UL 924 Listed LED Legend 90-Min Backup Flush-Mount Design Single/Double Face
Buyers Guide Tips

What to Look for in Recessed Exit Signs

  • Compliance & runtime: UL 924 listing with minimum 90-minute emergency operation; coordinate details with your AHJ under NFPA 101.
  • Ceiling/wall system: Confirm T-bar grid vs drywall kits, plenum suitability, and any fire-rated ceiling constraints before cutout.
  • Depth & clearances: Verify housing/driver/battery depth, joist spacing, and setbacks to insulation/MEP so the body sits flush without conflicts.
  • Aperture & trim: Choose low-glare trims/finishes; confirm cutout size, flange profile, and reveal for a clean architectural look that matches the ceiling plane.
  • Legend & visibility: Standard 6 in letters with typical viewing up to 100 ft; maintain clear sightlines to the EXIT panel from approach paths.
  • Faces & chevrons: Select single or double-face; use field-selectable directional arrows to match wayfinding and reduce SKUs site-wide.
  • Siting & height: Set mounting height/placement per plan to avoid obstructions and glare from nearby luminaires, glazing, or signage clusters.
  • Electrical: Universal 120/277 VAC, solid-state charger/automatic transfer, status indicator, and accessible test switch (local or remote) on battery models.
  • Battery chemistry: Maintenance-free Ni-Cd or lithium; verify ambient range, recharge time, and expected service life for maintenance planning.
  • Service access: Provide below-ceiling or accessible panel access for battery/driver replacement and testing without damaging finishes.
  • Environment & variants: Confirm indoor/damp suitability and any jurisdictional requirements (e.g., letter color/size where specified).

Available in single-face exit signs or double-face exit signs, recessed models include field-selectable chevrons, dual-voltage input (120/277 VAC), and internal batteries that provide at least 90 minutes of emergency illumination during power outages. Most models ship with universal mounting plates and trim kits for drywall, T-bar, or hard-ceiling installations.

Engineered for both function and design, recessed exit signs provide a discreet, compliant solution for interior wayfinding—blending life-safety performance with architectural precision.

💡 What is a recessed exit sign?
A low-profile EXIT sign installed flush into ceilings or walls to preserve architectural aesthetics while maintaining code-required visibility and emergency illumination.

Recessed units also help reduce tampering and accidental damage in busy environments such as schools, airports, and correctional facilities. Their hidden housings and durable construction make them ideal where both appearance and protection are priorities.

To compare other mounting styles or applications, browse all exit signs in our full collection.

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Recessed Exit Signs – Spec Guide

  • Compliance & runtime: UL 924 listing; battery models provide a minimum 90-minute operation and align with NFPA 101 (verify with your AHJ).
  • Ceiling/wall system: Specify T-bar grid vs drywall kits; confirm plenum use and any fire-rated or smoke-control requirements before cutout.
  • Depth & clearances: Verify housing/driver/battery depth, joist spacing, and setbacks to insulation/MEP so the body sits flush without conflicts.
  • Aperture & trim: Choose low-glare trims/finishes; confirm cutout size, flange profile, and reveal for a clean architectural look matching the ceiling plane.
  • Legend & visibility: Standard 6-in letters with typical viewing up to 100 ft; maintain clear sightlines to the EXIT panel from approach paths.
  • Faces & chevrons: Select single or double-face; use field-selectable arrows to match wayfinding and reduce SKUs site-wide.
  • Siting & height: Set mounting height/placement per plan to avoid obstructions and glare from nearby luminaires, glazing, or signage clusters.
  • Electrical: Universal 120/277 VAC, low-wattage LEDs, solid-state charger/automatic transfer, and low-voltage disconnect; include accessible test switch (local or remote).
  • Battery chemistry: Maintenance-free Ni-Cd or lithium; verify ambient range, recharge time, and expected service life for maintenance planning.
  • Installation method: New-construction bars vs retrofit frames; ensure secure attachment to grid/structure and include seismic clips where required by local code.
  • Service access: Provide below-ceiling or accessible panel access for driver/battery replacement and testing without damaging finishes.

FAQs About Recessed Exit Signs

What is a recessed exit sign?

A recessed exit sign installs into a wall or ceiling cavity so that only the trim and legend are exposed. It offers a clean, low-profile appearance while remaining fully code compliant.

Where are recessed signs typically installed?

These signs are ideal for lobbies, hallways, theaters, healthcare environments, hotels, and other interiors where architectural aesthetics and unobtrusive safety lighting are priorities.

Do recessed exit signs meet fire and building codes?

Yes. All models are UL 924 listed and meet NFPA 101 and OSHA life safety requirements, including battery backup and directional clarity.

Are mounting kits included?

Most recessed signs ship with universal trim kits or mounting brackets compatible with T-bar ceilings, drywall, or hard-lid surfaces.

Can I adjust the arrow direction?

Yes. Recessed signs include field-selectable chevrons that let you change the arrow direction on-site without customization or delays.

Do recessed signs come in different finishes?

Absolutely. Most models are available in white, black, brushed aluminum, or custom trim finishes to match your project’s design aesthetic.

What power and voltage are required?

Recessed LED exit signs typically run on 120/277 VAC and include an internal battery system for 90 minutes of emergency runtime.