Unlike standard fixtures which carry their own emergency power source, an AC only exit sign relies on the building's infrastructure to stay lit during an outage. This design choice offers significant long-term savings for large commercial facilities. Because there is no internal battery to charge, degrade, or replace, an exit sign with no battery requires significantly less maintenance over its lifespan. These units are specifically engineered for buildings equipped with a central generator or a centralized emergency inverter system that kicks in automatically when the grid fails.
System Requirements for Non-Battery Signs
Before purchasing, it is crucial to verify your building's electrical capability.
- Generator or Inverter Required: You cannot install an AC powered exit sign in a building without a backup power source. If the power goes out and you don't have a generator, the sign will go dark, which is a major code violation.
- Dual Circuit Wiring: Most generator powered exit signs are wired to a dedicated emergency circuit that is live 24/7, regardless of the status of the main breaker panel.
- Code Compliance: These signs are fully UL 924 listed, but their compliance depends entirely on the reliability of your external power source (the generator).
Types of AC Only Signage
We offer a variety of styles to match your facility’s needs, all without the hassle of batteries:
- Thermoplastic: Lightweight and affordable, ideal for large retrofit projects in office buildings.
- Metal & Aluminum: Durable AC exit signs featuring steel or aluminum housings for industrial or high-traffic corridors.
- Red & Green: Available in both color standards to meet local fire codes.
- Universal Mounting: Most units come with canopy kits for top, end, or back mounting.
Shop Low-Maintenance Egress Solutions
Simplify your facility management with our selection of reliable, direct-wire signage. At Bees Lighting, we stock UL-listed AC only exit signs that provide consistent safety without the battery maintenance. Whether you are outfitting a hospital with a backup generator or an office with a central inverter, we have the compatible fixtures. Browse our catalog today to find the right AC exit sign for your project. For technical questions regarding voltage or compatibility, contact our experts at 855-303-0665.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an AC only exit sign in any building?
Can I install an AC only exit sign in any building?
How do I test an AC only exit sign?
How do I test an AC only exit sign?
Are AC only signs cheaper?
Are AC only signs cheaper?
Do they use LED lights?
Do they use LED lights?
Can I use these outdoors?
Can I use these outdoors?

