It’s common knowledge that LEDs are an energy-efficient substitute for most of your traditional lighting needs; with longer life-cycles and efficiency far greater than their traditional counterparts, LEDs are becoming the norm for most business operators in the retail, accommodation, foodservice and small-industrial sectors. Whether installing new lighting systems or retrofitting existing ones, LEDs are the obvious choice for energy-saving lighting solutions.

Today however, non-traditional uses for LEDs are also being introduced as common practices within and outside the workplace. According to the Office of Energy Efficiency at NRCan, LEDs are now being used for traffic signals, vehicle brake lighting and exit signs; while energy-efficient traffic signals and vehicle brake lighting may not be able to help your business, “green” exit signs can significantly reduce your energy consumption, and costs.

The LED advantage

They might be little, but exit signs can consume large amounts of energy. Keep in mind, unlike other lights throughout your commercial or industrial facility, they operate 24 hours a day.

Exit signs that exist today are likely still those made from incandescent and fluorescent lighting and require frequent maintenance as a result. In newer buildings however, and as companies start replacing older systems, LED exit signs are becoming the more efficient, and cost-effective choice. According to industry experts like ENERGY STAR, the Exit Store and the Centre for Sustainable Tourism, the advantages of the LED exit sign are numerous and include:

  • Lower energy use which lead to lower energy costs! LED exit sign usually costs less than $4 annually to operate.
  • Low maintenance: LED exit signs last significantly longer than traditional signs. ENERGY STAR certified exit signs are guaranteed to last 5 years, but the certifier suggests that LED exit signs will last around 10.
  • LED exit signs are brighter than incandescent or fluorescent signs and contrast more heavily with their backgrounds making them safer to use in the workplace!
  • LED lights are more durable than traditional glass bulbs.
  • LED exit signs are more reliable since they come with powerful battery backup systems.

Choosing the right LED exit sign for your business

When you’re choosing an LED exit sign for your business, keep in mind that there is more than one on the market! LED signs can come in thermoplastic, cast aluminium and edge-lit designs; do your research before you decide which one is right for you. Exit signs themselves can be LED, incandescent, fluorescent, photoluminescent or tritium.

Sound confusing? It is, that’s why it’s a good idea to get help and call upon an expert on staff or an energy contractor to help identify if and how you need to make the switch!  You can also retrofit your existing exit signs using LED bulbs and bracket systems but be aware; not all LED retrofit kids fit conventional exist signs.

Did you know?

Clearly LED exit signs are the “greener” choice, but according to Green Torch, it can get even greener. Green LED exist signs apparently consume 2-3 watts of electricity while red LED exit signs consume 4-5 watts; by choosing green coloured LED exit signs over their red counterparts, you can save even more on energy costs!  Who knew?

Questions or comments? Leave them below! Try out our free energy audit and get personalized energy-saving recommendations for your business.

image credit: mtellin