What is a Lighting Inverter?
A lighting inverter converts DC battery power to standard AC voltages to provide backup for lighting systems during emergencies. Often referred to as a "UPS for emergency lighting," these inverters are essential for powering emergency exit lights, fire alarm systems, and other life safety equipment.
Unlike traditional UPS systems used for IT infrastructure, lighting inverters focus on sustaining illumination for safe egress in power outages. They adhere to UL 924 standards, which define the safety and performance requirements for emergency lighting and power equipment.
Key Features of Emergency Lighting Inverters
1. Transfer Time
Transfer time refers to how quickly the inverter responds to a power failure. Some models feature a seamless, zero-transfer design, ensuring uninterrupted power, which is particularly important for HID lighting and alarm circuits.
2. Voltage Regulation
Voltage regulation ensures consistent lighting levels, preventing fluctuations from affecting emergency systems. This stability is crucial for "normally on" circuits where lighting remains active under regular conditions.
3. Power Conditioning
Power conditioning protects connected lighting from electrical surges and transients, extending the lifespan of electronic ballasts and fixtures.
Central vs. Dispersed Lighting Inverters
Emergency lighting inverters are available in two configurations:
- Central Lighting Inverters: Provide backup power to multiple fixtures from a single location, reducing overall maintenance and streamlining compliance with safety regulations.
- Dispersed Lighting: Individual fixtures each have their own battery backup, offering lower upfront costs but higher long-term maintenance due to multiple battery replacements.
Compliance and Safety Standards
UL 924 inverters must comply with safety regulations such as:
- International Building Code (IBC)
- NFPA 101, 70, 110, and 111
- NFPA 99 (for healthcare facilities)
Facilities must ensure proper product selection to meet these standards. Battery backup solutions should align with the required emergency runtime, typically a minimum of 90 minutes per UL guidelines.
Choosing the Right Lighting Inverter
Selecting the appropriate emergency lighting inverter depends on factors like:
- Power Capacity Requirements: Ensuring sufficient wattage to support all critical lighting systems.
- Run Time Expectations: Meeting or exceeding the 90-minute UL 924 standard.
- Application-Specific Needs: Supporting HID lighting, alarm circuits, or advanced lighting controls.
A power outage can happen anytime—is your facility ready? Investing in a high-quality lighting inverter system ensures that when the lights go out, your building stays safe, secure, and compliant.
For high-quality emergency lighting inverters that meet UL 924 standards, explore our selection of Lighting inverters.
Need help sizing the proper lighting inverter for your facility, contact our experts today and let’s make sure your emergency lighting is ready for anything!
