When integrating commercial exit devices with an access control system, two terms frequently appear in product specifications: Electric Latch Retraction (ELR) and Electric Dogging (ED). Although they sound similar, these technologies serve different purposes and are designed for different types of exit devices.

Understanding the difference is essential for architects, security consultants, facility managers, and contractors specifying hardware for schools, hospitals, offices, government buildings, and other commercial facilities.

Rather than asking which option is better, the important question is which technology is best suited for your building and application.

This guide explains how each system works, where it should be used, and highlights popular products from industry-leading manufacturers including Von Duprin, SARGENT, Corbin Russwin, Detex, and Command Access.

What Is Electric Latch Retraction?

Electric Latch Retraction (ELR) is an electrified feature that retracts the latch(es) inside an exit device when power is applied. Once the latch retracts, the door can be opened by simply pushing or pulling it without depressing the touchpad.

When power is removed, the latch automatically extends, securing the door once again.

Because the latch retracts completely, the opening functions much like a standard unlocked door while maintaining full code compliance.

How Electric Latch Retraction Works

An electric signal from a card reader, keypad, building automation system, or scheduled timer activates a motor or solenoid inside the exit device.

The mechanism retracts the latchbolt, allowing free entry.

When the signal ends:

• The latch extends automatically.

• The door secures itself.

• Exit operation remains unchanged from the inside.

Common Applications

Electric latch retraction is commonly specified for:

• Schools

• Universities

• Hospitals

• Government facilities

• Airports

• Office buildings

• Healthcare campuses

• High-security commercial buildings

Popular Electric Latch Retraction Exit Devices

These devices are commonly integrated into modern electronic access control systems.

Popular Electric Latch Retraction Retrofit Kits

For existing mechanical exit devices, electric latch retraction can often be added without replacing the complete exit device. Retrofit kits replace or supplement the existing mechanical mechanism with a motorized latch-retraction assembly that can be connected to an access control system.

Several retrofit options are available for popular commercial exit device series.

Command Access MLRK1 Kits

Command Access MLRK1 kits are field-installable motorized latch-retraction solutions designed to electrify compatible existing exit devices. The MLRK1 platform is available in manufacturer-specific versions, making it a practical retrofit option when replacing an entire exit device is unnecessary.

• MLRK1-VD — Designed for Von Duprin 98/99 and 33/35 Series exit devices. Provides motorized latch retraction for access control integration and operates on 24VDC.

• MLRK1-VDAX — Designed for Von Duprin 98/99AX and 33/35AX Series devices. This version accommodates the AX configuration while providing motorized latch retraction.

• MLRK1-SGT — Designed for SARGENT 80 Series exit devices. It provides motorized latch retraction and can be integrated with access control systems.

• MLRK1-ARW — Designed for Arrow 1000 Series exit devices, providing a field-installable motorized latch-retraction solution.

• MLRK1-CAT25 — Designed for compatible Command Access PD26 Series devices.

The MLRK1 platform uses 24VDC input and is designed for motorized latch retraction, making these kits particularly useful for upgrading existing panic hardware to work with card readers, keypads, access control panels, and other electronic access systems.

SARGENT M56A and R56A Kits

SARGENT M56A retrofit kits are designed for SARGENT 80 Series exit devices and provide motor-driven electric latch retraction. The kits are available for different rail sizes, including E, F, G, and J rails, to accommodate different door widths.

• M56A-E — For SARGENT 80 Series E-Rail devices, typically used on 24–32 inch applications.

• M56A-F — For SARGENT 80 Series F-Rail devices, typically used on 33–36 inch applications.

• M56A-J — For SARGENT 80 Series J-Rail devices, typically used on 37–42 inch applications.

• M56A-G — For SARGENT 80 Series G-Rail devices, typically used on 43–48 inch applications.

• 55-M56A — M56A configuration incorporating a Request-to-Exit (REX) signal switch for monitoring and access-control applications.

• R56A — SARGENT electric latch-retraction option designed for compatible 80 Series exit devices and retrofit applications.

SARGENT's 80 Series includes multiple exit-device configurations, including rim, mortise, surface vertical rod, and concealed vertical rod devices, making the M56A platform useful across a broad range of commercial openings.

Von Duprin 114317 QEL Conversion Kit

Von Duprin 114317-00 QEL Quiet Electric Latch Retraction Modular Conversion Kit is a retrofit solution for compatible 33A/35A and 98/99 Series exit devices. It converts a mechanical or legacy device to quiet electric latch retraction and provides a lower-noise alternative to traditional solenoid-based EL systems. Von Duprin identifies 114317-00 as the recommended modular QELA conversion kit for applicable 33A/35A and 98/99 devices.

Other Von Duprin QEL conversion options include:

• 114317-00 — QELA modular conversion kit for 33A/35A and 98/99 Series.

• 040061-00 — QELA modular conversion kit with connector.

• 958002-00 — HD-QELA modular conversion kit with hex dogging for compatible panic devices.

• 040062-00 — HD-QELA modular conversion kit with connector.

• 041162-00 — QELX modular conversion kit for AX devices.

• 041163-00 — QELX modular conversion kit with connector for AX devices.

• 041164-00 — HD-QELX AX conversion kit with dogging.

• 041165-00 — HD-QELX AX conversion kit with connector and dogging.

For longer devices, Von Duprin also offers corresponding 3-foot and 4-foot baseplate conversion kits, including 958003-00, 958004-00, 040065-00, 040067-00, and related connector versions.

Choosing a Retrofit Kit

The correct retrofit kit depends primarily on the manufacturer, exit-device series, rail length, device configuration, and whether the opening is panic-rated or fire-rated.

Before ordering, verify:

• Exit device manufacturer and series

• Device model and date of manufacture

• Rail/device length

• Rim, mortise, surface vertical rod, or concealed vertical rod configuration

• Panic or fire-rated application

• 12VDC or 24VDC requirements

• Access-control interface

• Available power supply and current capacity

For fire-rated openings, always verify that the complete electrified configuration is listed and installed according to the manufacturer's requirements. Retrofit compatibility should be confirmed against the specific device before installation.

What Is Electric Dogging?

Electric Dogging (ED) keeps the touchpad of a panic device in the depressed position while power is applied.

Unlike electric latch retraction, the latch itself is not retracted electronically. Instead, the push bar remains "dogged" (held down), allowing the latch to retract mechanically whenever someone pushes or pulls the door.

When power is removed, the touchpad returns to its normal position, and the exit device resumes standard operation.

Electric dogging is generally available only on panic-rated exit devices and cannot be used on fire-rated exit devices, since fire code requires fire doors to remain positively latched.

How Electric Dogging Works

During business hours:

• Power is applied.

• The touchpad remains depressed.

• Users can freely enter by pushing or pulling the door.

After hours:

• Power is removed.

• The touchpad returns to its normal position.

• The door locks automatically.

Common Applications

Electric dogging is frequently used in:

• Retail stores

• Office buildings

• Shopping centers

• Churches

• Community centers

• Recreation facilities

• Schools (non-fire-rated openings)

• Public assembly buildings

Popular Electric Dogging Exit Devices

Many manufacturers offer both ELR and ED versions of the same exit device, allowing specifiers to choose the appropriate option for each opening.

Electric Latch Retraction vs. Electric Dogging

Where Should You Use Electric Latch Retraction?

Electric latch retraction is the preferred choice when:

• The opening is part of an electronic access control system.

• The door is fire-rated (when using a listed EL device).

• Security schedules change throughout the day.

• Automatic operators are used.

• Credential-based entry is required.

Typical applications include:

• Hospital corridors

• School entrances

• Government buildings

• Secure office suites

• Data centers

• Research laboratories

Where Should You Use Electric Dogging?

Electric dogging is ideal when a panic device needs to remain unlocked during business hours and automatically secure the building after hours.

Common examples include:

• Retail storefronts

• Shopping malls

• Office building entrances

• Gymnasiums

• Recreation centers

• Churches

• Community halls

Because electric dogging cannot be used on fire-rated exit devices, it is best suited to non-fire-rated panic hardware.

Popular Commercial Brands

Several leading manufacturers offer high-quality electrified exit devices:

Von Duprin

Popular Series:

• 98 Series Rim Exit Device

• 99 Series Rim Exit Device

• 33A/35A Series

• EL and ED configurations available

SARGENT

Popular Series:

• 80 Series Exit Devices

• 8700 Narrow Stile Series

• Electric Latch Retraction models

• Electric Dogging models

Corbin Russwin

• ED5000 Series

• Electrified exit device options

Precision Hardware

• Apex Series

• ELR and ED configurations

Detex

• Advantex Series

• Battery-powered and wired electrified options

Choosing the Right Solution

Before selecting an electrified exit device, ask these questions:

Is the door fire-rated?

If yes, electric latch retraction is typically the appropriate option when a listed electrified device is required.

Will the door remain unlocked during business hours?

Electric dogging is often an efficient solution for non-fire-rated openings that require free access during operating hours.

Is the opening integrated with access control?

Electric latch retraction is commonly used for doors controlled by card readers, mobile credentials, and building management systems.

Will an automatic door operator be installed?

Electric latch retraction is frequently paired with automatic operators to ensure smooth and reliable operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is electric latch retraction better than electric dogging?

Neither option is universally better. The correct choice depends on the door's function, fire-rating requirements, and access control needs.

Can electric dogging be used on fire-rated doors?

No. Fire-rated exit devices must maintain positive latching and therefore do not permit electric dogging.

Does electric latch retraction work with card readers?

Yes. Electric latch retraction integrates seamlessly with card readers, keypads, biometric readers, mobile credentials, and building automation systems.

Which manufacturers offer electric latch retraction?

Popular manufacturers include Von Duprin, SARGENT, Corbin Russwin, and Detex.

Which solution is common in schools?

Schools often specify electric latch retraction for main entrances, classroom wings, and secure vestibules because it integrates well with access control systems. Electric dogging may be used on select non-fire-rated openings where free access is needed during operating hours.

Conclusion

Choosing between electric latch retraction and electric dogging depends on the function of the opening and the building's operational requirements.

Electric latch retraction is the preferred solution for access-controlled doors, fire-rated openings, hospitals, schools, government buildings, and facilities using automatic door operators. It electronically retracts the latch while maintaining the safety and functionality required for modern commercial buildings.

Electric dogging, on the other hand, is best suited for non-fire-rated panic hardware where doors need to remain unlocked during business hours and automatically secure after hours. It is commonly found in retail stores, office buildings, community centers, and other high-traffic commercial environments.

At QualityDoor.com, we offer a wide selection of electrified exit devices from trusted brands, including Von Duprin, SARGENT, Corbin Russwin, Command Access, and Detex.