Why Your Building Needs Lighted Exit Signs (And What to Look For)
- by Joe Weber - updated on 5/9/2025
In an emergency, every second counts. Whether it's a power outage, fire, or other unexpected event, your building's exit signs could be the difference between confusion and a safe evacuation. That's why having emergency lighting and illuminated exit signs in place isn't just a good idea; they are required and essential for safety.
In this guide, we'll explain why you need lighted exit signs, what to look for when buying them, and how to keep them running when it matters most.
Why Are Lighted Exit Signs So Important?
When the lights go out or visibility is reduced due to smoke, panic, or a crowded space, people need a clear, visible path to safety. That's where illuminated exit signs come in. Here's why they're a must-have in every commercial building, school, or public facility:
- They stay visible in the dark thanks to built-in lighting
- They provide clear direction to exits, even from a distance
- They reduce panic by helping people navigate safely
- They work during power outages when connected to battery backups
Think of exit signs as silent guides—always ready, even when the power isn't.
What Kind of Exit Sign Do You Need?
Not all exit signs are the same. Here's a quick breakdown of the key features to look for:
1. Illuminated vs. Non-Illuminated
- Illuminated Exit Signs are powered by electricity or battery backup and stay lit 24/7
- Photoluminescent Exit Signs absorb light and glow in the dark (ideal for low-power environments)
- Non-illuminated exit signs have no light source, they are difficult to see in dark or low visibility situations.
For most buildings, illuminated LED exit signs are the standard. They're energy-efficient, long-lasting, and easy to maintain.
2. Battery Backup Functionality
In a power outage, you want your exit signs to stay lit. Look for models with built-in battery backup that provide at least 90 minutes of illumination when the power fails.
If you already have exit signs, make sure you're testing and replacing those backup batteries regularly.
3. Single-Sided vs. Double-Sided
- Single-sided signs are perfect for mounting against a wall
- Double-sided signs are designed to hang in open spaces, viewable from both directions
Choose the right orientation based on your building's layout and visibility needs.
4. Combo Units with Emergency Lights
Need lighting along the path to the exit? A combo unit includes an illuminated exit sign plus two emergency floodlights to light the way. These are great for hallways, stairwells, or large open spaces where visibility is crucial.
5. Directional Arrows
Some exit signs include built-in arrows to point toward the correct exit route. These are especially helpful in large buildings with multiple hallways or exits.
LED Exit Signs: The Smart Choice
If you're installing new signs or upgrading old ones, LED exit signs offer several benefits:
- Energy efficiency – LEDs use far less power than traditional bulbs
- Long lifespan – Many models last up to 10 years or more
- Minimal maintenance – Fewer replacements and reduced downtime
- Bright, consistent illumination – Clear visibility even in low-light or smoky conditions
Plus, LED models often come with self-testing features that automatically check battery and bulb status, giving you peace of mind year-round.
Don't Forget the Batteries
If your exit signs use a battery backup, those batteries need regular attention. Over time, they lose capacity, especially in high-heat environments. We recommend:
- Checking battery status monthly
- Performing a full 90-minute test annually
- Replacing batteries every 2-4 years, depending on usage and environment
Batteries Plus carries a wide selection of replacement batteries for emergency and exit lighting, including sealed lead acid (SLA), Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4), and Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) batteries.
Shop Exit Signs & Accessories at Batteries Plus
Whether you're outfitting a brand-new building or upgrading older equipment, Batteries Plus has everything you need to keep your exit signs up and running:
- Energy-efficient LED exit signs
- Combo units with emergency lights
- Directional signage
- Backup batteries and chargers
Need help figuring out what to buy? The experts at Batteries Plus can walk you through your options and help you choose the best solution for your building's layout and budget.
Light Your Facility with a Batteries Plus Business Account
If you're managing a commercial building, school, retail space, or any large facility, keeping up with exit sign maintenance is just one of many responsibilities. A Batteries Plus Business Account can help streamline your operations with exclusive perks designed for professionals.
As a business account holder, you'll get:
- Volume pricing on exit signs, emergency lighting, and batteries
- Dedicated account support to help you source exactly what you need
- A large network of locally-owned stores to ready to help
- Fast, local pickup or convenient delivery options
- Custom solutions for lighting, power, and device repair
Whether you're upgrading your exit signage or stocking up on replacement batteries, our team is here to support your business every step of the way. Sign up for a free business account today and start saving on the supplies that keep your building safe and running smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lighted Exit Signs
Q: How long do exit sign batteries last?
A: Most exit sign backup batteries last between 2 to 4 years, depending on usage and environmental temperature. It's important to test them regularly and replace them as needed to ensure the sign stays illuminated during an emergency.
Q: What type of lighting is best for exit signs?
A: LED lighting is the most popular choice for exit signs today. LEDs use less power, last longer, and provide bright, reliable illumination. They also work well with battery backup systems and reduce long-term maintenance costs.
Q: Do exit signs need to stay on all the time?
A: Yes. Exit signs must remain illuminated at all times while the building is occupied. In the event of a power outage, a battery backup ensures the sign stays lit for at least 90 minutes.
Be Ready When It Matters Most
Exit signs are easy to overlook until you need them. The right setup can guide people to safety, prevent injuries, and provide peace of mind during emergencies. Make sure your building is ready with bright, reliable exit signs that won't let you down when the lights go out.
Visit your local Batteries Plus or shop online to explore our full selection of exit signs, emergency lighting, and backup power solutions.