Remote Head Emergency Lights

Remote Head Emergency Lights

Remote head emergency lights expand your egress coverage without adding more self-contained fixtures. Powered by a central battery unit—such as remote-capable emergency lights, remote-capable exit signs, or remote-capable exit sign & emergency light combos—these UL 924 compliant remote heads deliver at least 90 minutes of illumination during outages.

UL 924 LED Technology Wet-Location Options 6V / 12V
Buyers Guide Tips

What to Look for in Remote Head Emergency Lights

  • Match voltage: Select 6 V or 12 V heads to match the remote output of your central unit; mixing voltages is not permitted.
  • Total watts & runtime: Add remote head watts to on-board load and confirm the base unit can maintain 90-minute operation at that total.
  • Wiring & voltage drop: Size conductor gauge and limit run lengths so heads receive rated voltage at load; follow the manufacturer’s voltage-drop tables.
  • Lumen output & optics: Choose single/dual heads and beam spreads to hit ≈ ≥1 fc average and ≥0.1 fc minimum along egress paths at 90 minutes.
  • Environment rating: Specify damp/wet-location or NEMA/IK rated housings for exterior, hose-down, or high-abuse areas; consider vandal-resistant models for public spaces.
  • Aiming & adjustability: Prefer adjustable knuckles/gimbals to push light down corridors and stairs without glare on signage or displays.
  • Mounting hardware: Verify canopy/box pattern, gasketing, and strain relief for low-voltage runs; label junctions for inspection and service.
  • Circuit zoning: Break out remote circuits by corridor/area so testing, fault isolation, and future maintenance are simpler and faster.
  • Compatibility: Use heads approved by the central unit’s manufacturer for the specified voltage/current; confirm polarity/terminal style matches.
  • Documentation: Keep a one-line showing run lengths, conductor size, and watt loads per circuit; record annual/monthly test results for AHJ review.

Unlike traditional emergency fixtures, remote head lights draw power from centralized batteries to simplify inspections, reduce cost, and boost long-term reliability. They’re ideal for warehouses, stairwells, long corridors, outdoor walkways, and storage facilities where flexible placement is critical.

Choose single- or dual-lamp LED heads with fixed or adjustable optics. Voltage options include 6V and 12V; always match the remote head voltage to the output of your remote-capable emergency light power source or remote-capable exit sign driver.

Housings span thermoplastic for indoor use, vandal-resistant aluminum for high-abuse areas, and NEMA-rated sealed models for hose-down, wet, or corrosive environments. All models are UL listed for commercial applications.

💡 What is a remote head emergency light? A remote head is an auxiliary egress fixture powered by a central battery—extending emergency illumination without its own internal battery.

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Remote Head Emergency Lights – Spec Guide

  • System compliance: Heads operate as part of a UL 924 emergency lighting system; confirm head listing and AHJ acceptance with the specified central unit.
  • Voltage match: Select 6 V or 12 V heads to match the remote output of the base unit; do not mix voltages on a circuit.
  • Total watts & runtime: Add head wattage to on-board load and verify the base unit maintains 90-minute operation at the combined load.
  • Wiring & voltage drop: Size conductors and limit run lengths so heads receive rated voltage at load; follow manufacturer voltage-drop tables and observe polarity/terminal conventions.
  • Lumen output & optics: Choose single/dual heads and beam spreads to achieve ≈ ≥1 fc average and ≥0.1 fc minimum along egress paths at 90 minutes.
  • Aiming & adjustability: Prefer adjustable knuckles/gimbals to push light down corridors/stairs while minimizing glare on signage and displays; lock aim after testing.
  • Environment rating: Specify indoor/damp/wet-location or NEMA/IP sealed heads for exterior, hose-down, or corrosive areas; consider vandal-resistant models for high-abuse zones.
  • Materials & finish: Thermoplastic (lightweight) vs. aluminum/metal (durability/abuse resistance); UV-stable lenses and corrosion-resistant hardware where applicable.
  • Circuit zoning & ID: Break out remote circuits by area for easier testing and isolation; label junctions and terminations for inspections and maintenance records.
  • Mounting & hardware: Verify canopy/box pattern, gasketing, strain relief on low-voltage runs, and any sealing requirements for wet locations.
  • Compatibility: Use heads approved by the base unit’s manufacturer for the specified voltage/current; mixing incompatible accessories can void listings.
  • Documentation: Maintain a one-line showing run lengths, conductor size, watt loads per circuit, and measured test results for AHJ review.

Additional Resources

FAQs About Remote Head Emergency Lights

What is a remote head emergency light?

A remote head is a lamp fixture that connects to a remote-capable emergency light or exit sign. It runs on low-voltage wiring and draws power from a central battery unit, adding egress lighting where you need it.

Why choose remote heads instead of standalone units?

Remote heads remove extra batteries and chargers from the ceiling. That means less labor, less space, and simpler maintenance—great for streamlining code compliance without installing multiple self-contained fixtures.

How many remote heads can a single unit power?

It depends on the central unit’s output wattage and voltage. Many systems power 1–2 remote heads, while higher-capacity units can support more. Always check the base unit’s VA rating and don’t exceed its load limit.

Can remote heads be used outdoors?

Yes—use wet-location rated remote heads sealed against moisture and dust. They’re ideal for loading docks, exterior stairs, and covered entryways.

Are LED remote heads better than halogen?

Usually, yes. LED remote heads last longer, use less energy, and run cooler than halogen—making them the more efficient, reliable choice for emergency systems.

Do remote heads require special wiring?

They use low-voltage, code-compliant wiring. Factor in distance, wire gauge, and total load for voltage drop. A licensed electrician is recommended for proper installation.