LED exit sign smoke escaping

[rick hart]

I was wondering if anyone out there is having the same problems we are having with LED exit light power supplies burning up. Over the past few years numerous reports that dozens (but only two actual units have made it back to me) of 10-12 year old exit signs have burst into flames. After investigating, there has been little evidence of a fire, just smoke, soot and high drama. Replacing the power supply makes them good as new. The exit signs- approximately 350 total- were installed in a new addition of a medical center. The manufacture does not have a product recall but wants to examine the failed boards. We don't want to take chances since this could be seen as a critical life safety issue that cannot be ignored. So:

1. When the electronic power supply gives up, what is typically expected?
2. What is the expected life of a mid '90's LED exit sign?
3. Is a 2-3% failure rate typical?

 

[mattsilkwood]

were they wired to the right voltage? most of them ive seen have a connection for 120 and 277

 

[robertwilber]

1. When the electronic power supply gives up, what is typically expected?

I haven't had any fires, but there have been some smokey messes...
I guess it would depend on the design and what component fails

3. Is a 2-3% failure rate typical?

Is this 3% failure rate a per annum rate? - I would be impressed with that. That would suggest the average life would be 16 years, 2% would suggest 25 years ...
I am tired of buying new equipment that has a 40% new iinstalled failure or non-functionality rate. I have been around long enough to remember when 1-in-10 was bad quality control.
With some of these new dual-voltage electronic ballasts, you have to have 15 with you to be able to install 10 replacements that work!

 

[mdshunk]

With some of these new dual-voltage electronic ballasts, you have to have 15 with you to be able to install 10 replacements that work!

You and I must be buying the same ballasts. That's among my more frustrating daily trials.

 

[rick hart]

Thans for the replies! I was starting to think that I asked a really stupid question!

Thans for the replies! I was starting to think that I asked a really stupid question!

The fixtures are multi-volt, connected to 277V for several years.

 

[robbietan]

those multi volt power supplies normally have capacitors failing first. yes, I have seen those things smoke a lot when they give up the ghost.