Best Exit Signs for Buildings: Reliable Choices for Clear Egress
Answering the question “which exit signs are best for buildings?” this guide highlights five practical options suited for commercial spaces, schools, offices, and public venues. Each pick focuses on visibility, installation options, and battery backups to support safe egress during power outages. Ideal buyers include facility managers, safety coordinators, and business owners seeking compliant, durable signage. The table below provides quick-reference facts to compare core features at a glance.
| Product | Type | Power | Mount/Installation | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TANLUX Red Exit Sign with Emergency Lights (Single) | LED Exit Sign with Battery | AC 120/277V, Ni-Cd backup | Top/Side/Back mount | Small to medium commercial spaces needing reliable backup lighting |
| TANLUX Red Exit Sign With Emergency Lights (2 Pack) | LED Exit Sign with Battery | AC 120/277V, Ni-Cd backup | Top/Side/Back mount | Multiple exits or larger areas requiring consistent signaling |
| FREELICHT 6 Pack Red Exit Signs | LED Exit Sign with Battery | AC 120/277V, Ni-Cd backup | Ceiling or back mount | Commercial facilities needing bulk coverage |
| (2 Pack) Exit Signs, Aluminum Red Background | Aluminum, non-illuminated signs | Passive visibility (no power) | Wall or door mount | Budget-conscious, long-term exterior or large-area marking |
| T&R Exit Sign – 2 Pack | Aluminum Reflective Signs | Passive visibility | Wall or ceiling mounting | Durable, weatherproof signage for harsh environments |
TANLUX Red Exit Sign With Emergency Lights (Single) – Best All-Around Value
This unit combines a UL-listed thermoplastic housing with a bright red “EXIT” LED indicator and an internal battery backup. It operates on universal 120V-277V AC and provides at least 90 minutes of emergency lighting during power outages. Best for mid-size offices, retail floors, or clinics needing a single reliable exit signal with backup power. Pros include clear visibility from up to 100 feet and three mounting options—top, side, or back—with canopy included. A potential limitation is the need to identify mounting space that accommodates all three options in tightly configured rooms.
TANLUX Red Exit Sign With Emergency Lights (2 Pack) – Best for Multiple Exits
This two-pack extension mirrors the single-unit benefits but is sized for facilities with more than one exit. It uses the same UL-listed thermoplastic housing, red EXIT indicator, and 90-minute Ni-Cd battery backup. Best for small campuses, multi-room offices, or retail spaces with parallel evacuation routes. Better for cost efficiency when equipping several locations. A caveat is that the set increases overall weight and required installation planning for multiple signs in different areas.
FREELICHT 6 Pack Red Exit Signs – Bulk Coverage
FREELICHT offers a bulk option with six units in a single purchase. Each unit uses an injection-molded thermoplastic housing with a 90-minute battery backup, supporting continuous operation during outages. Suitable for larger retail stores, schools, or office complexes needing uniform signage throughout multiple zones. The group installation simplifies procurement, though it requires substantial upfront space and mounting planning to align all signs for consistent visibility.
(2 Pack) Exit Signs, Aluminum – High Visibility
These two aluminum exit signs emphasize passive, high-visibility signaling. With a red background and white lettering, they are ideal where electric power is not available or where older electrical systems are not feasible. Best for outdoor entrances, warehouse bays, or spaces needing durable, rust-resistant signage. Limitations include lack of illumination and reliance on external lighting conditions for visibility at night.
T&R Exit Sign (2 Pack) – Durable Aluminum
Designed for rugged environments, these aluminum exit signs feature pre-drilled mounting holes and a weatherproof, fade-resistant coating. They are best for warehouses, manufacturing floors, or outdoor entrances where durable signage is essential. Choice is ideal when power is not the primary concern but long-term resilience and outdoor suitability are required. A limitation is their non-illuminated nature, so they rely on external lighting or retrofitting with powered signage if needed.
Buying Guide: How To Choose The Right Exit Signs
- Sign Type — Do you need illuminated signs or do you prefer durable, non-illuminated aluminum? Illuminated options provide visibility during power outages, while aluminum signs excel in harsh environments.
- Power and Backups — For emergency lighting, confirm the battery backup duration (commonly 60–90 minutes). Consider units with universal voltage (120/277V) for flexible placement.
- Mounting Options — Look for three mounting options (top, side, back) and included canopy if outdoor or ceiling mounting is required.
- Material & Durability — Thermoplastic housings are lightweight and affordable; aluminum signs offer rust resistance and weather durability for outdoor or industrial settings.
- — Ensure the size and contrast of the sign meet local codes and are easily readable from a distance relevant to your space.
FAQ
- What is the typical emergency-light backup duration? Most exit signs provide at least 60–90 minutes of backup lighting during a power outage.
- Are illuminated exit signs required for all buildings? Requirements vary by jurisdiction and occupancy type; check local codes and NFPA guidelines.
- Can I install exit signs outdoors? Yes, but choose signs with weather-resistant materials and proper canopy or mounting hardware.
- What materials are most durable for long-term use? Aluminum signs are highly durable; thermoplastic housings are lighter and cost-effective for indoor use.
- Do exiting signs need to be connected to power? Most require AC power for illumination and battery backup; passive signs require ambient lighting or separate power sources.
- How many exit signs should I buy? Determine the number of exits per floor and the visibility distance required for occupants to evacuate safely.