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Neon signs are not just eye-catching—they’re often the heart of a business’s branding. But like any piece of art and technology, they need a little TLC from time to time. Whether your neon sign is flickering, dim, or just plain dead, we’ll walk you through the repair process and help you decide if switching to an LED sign is the better move. So, what’s really going on when that bright neon glow fades?
What Could Be Wrong with Your Neon Sign?
Neon signs are like any other piece of tech; they need upkeep. But what’s causing the problem? Here are the usual suspects:
- Tiny Glass Cracks You Can’t Even See: The most common issue is tiny, almost invisible cracks in the gas-filled tubes. These cracks let gas escape, which kills the glow.
- Wiring That’s Seen Better Days: Neon signs are powered by high-voltage transformers. When the wiring loosens or frays, your sign might flicker or shut off entirely. Frustrating? Absolutely. Fixable? Definitely.
- Transformer Troubles: This might sound technical, but transformers are the heart of neon signs. If your sign is flickering, losing brightness, or won’t turn on, a failing transformer is often the culprit.
Without diving into boring technical jargon, the key here is that these issues are not permanent, and repairs are possible!
Diagnosing the Problem: What’s Under the Hood?
Neon signs look delicate—and they are—but diagnosing the issue doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s what the process looks like:
- Step One: Visual Check: A technician will first look at the sign—sometimes, the issue is visible. Cracks, breaks, or disconnected wires are easy to spot. Other times, it’s more subtle, like an undetectable gas leak.
- Step Two: Electrical Testing: If it’s not immediately obvious, the next step is to test the voltage. If your transformer is on the fritz or a wire is loose, a few quick tests with the right tools will reveal the issue.
- Step Three: Digging Deeper: Occasionally, the problem lies within the sign's core. Things like aging electrodes or failing transformers may not be obvious to the naked eye but are common culprits for flickering or dim lights.
Repair or Replace? Here’s Where You Decide.
Now that you know what’s wrong, it’s time to make a decision: should you repair the neon or consider an LED upgrade? Here’s what you need to know:
Repairing Neon
A repair can fix specific issues—replacing cracked tubes, tightening wires, or installing a new transformer. It’s great for keeping the vintage, classic charm of your neon sign. However, repairs may add up over time as parts continue to age.
Retrofitting to LED
Retrofitting to LED signage isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a complete transformation. Many signs that use Neon for backlighting can be retrofitted with LEDs keeping most of your sign intact while reaping the benefits.
LEDs are far more energy-efficient, using up to 75% less power than traditional neon. They’re built to withstand the elements and heavy wear, making them an ideal choice for high-traffic areas or outdoor installations. What’s more, they’re incredibly customizable—you can perfectly mimic the classic glow of a neon sign but without the fragility of glass tubes. This combination of energy savings, durability, and flexibility makes LEDs not only easier to maintain but also a smart long-term investment for any business.
A New LED Sign
If your sign features lots of exposed Neon, then it may not be possible to retrofit te the sign since it is primarily made of Neon tubing. Instead we can replicate the look and feel of your Neon sign with beautiful, nearly 360 degree LED tubing. The quality, look and feel of LEDs have dramatically improved over the years to now nearly perfectly replicate the warm neon glow that we all known and love, but with none of the maintenance or environmental costs. We're not talking about the cheap online versions of LED neon that look nothing like the real thing -- there are much higher quality products out there.
In sum, if you love the neon look and the sign is mostly in good shape, repairing is a smart move. But if energy efficiency and longevity are priorities, an LED retrofit or a beautiful new neon sign could be a game-changer.
What Will It Cost You? Let’s Break It Down.
We won’t sugarcoat it: the cost of neon sign repair or LED retrofit/conversion depends on a few factors, but here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Size and Complexity: Larger signs or more intricate designs will naturally cost more. Replacing a single tube is cheaper than rewiring an entire sign.
- Type of Repair: Simple fixes, like tightening a wire, will be more affordable. But replacing glass tubing, especially with custom bends, can drive up the cost.
- LED Retrofits: While costly in the short-run, switching to LED is often more than worth it in the long run. LEDs are energy-efficient, durable, and cost less to maintain over time.
Why Choose Signature Signs?
So, why choose us? We don’t just fix signs—we restore your brand’s personality, and we do it with expert craftsmanship and care. Here’s what makes us different:
- Personalized Service: We get it—no two signs (or businesses) are the same. Whether it’s a quick repair or a full LED conversion, we customize our approach to your specific needs.
- Quality Craftsmanship: From precision glass bending to seamless LED installation, our team brings decades of expertise to every project.
- Energy-Efficient Solutions: We know businesses want to save money, and we offer energy-efficient solutions that reduce your bills without sacrificing the magic of your sign.
Don’t let your sign’s flicker become a problem that dims your brand’s personality. Whether you’re ready to repair, upgrade to LED, or just need some advice, Signature Signs is here to help. Reach out today and let’s bring that glow back—brighter and better than ever.
