6 Reasons to Replace your Neon Sign with an LED Sign

Traditionally, signs have been constructed using neon or other gases. When most of us imagine a sign, we see a sign that could be used to advertise a casino in Las Vegas. While it is undeniable that there is something romantic or nostalgic about neon signs, LED signs have a number of other advantages that ultimately make them the better investment for a business.

Whether you are environmentally conscious or more concerned about maintenance costs, there are a number of advantages for opting for an LED sign. The following are six reasons why you should change out your current neon sign for a new LED sign:

1. Regular Operations Costs – Power Usage

Perhaps the reason with the most draw, the cost to operate an LED light is lower than that of a neon light. Compare the 3 kv to 18 kv required to power a neon light against the 24 V to 120 V used by LED signs. It requires more than 5 times more power to light up the neon sign, making it a higher regular operation cost. The two signs may have a comparable initial purchase cost, but the overall cost to light an LED light is significantly lower.

2. Maintenance Costs

Another cost-savings aspect of LED lights is their regular maintenance costs. Traditional neon lights have a life expectancy of about 10,000 hours. That means that you will need to plan to change the lights periodically based on how much you use the sign. LED lights have a life expectancy that is three times longer, which means that you won’t have to replace them nearly as often. They are also far less costly to replace as you can replace them yourself instead of having to hire a professional to do it for safety reasons.

3. A Brighter Sign

Part of the appeal of a neon light is that it has a soft, warm glow. This is great for nostalgia, but it makes the sign blend in more with the surroundings. LED lights are brighter in the darkness, making the text standout more. This will help you gain more attention since people will have an easier time finding your business.

4. Environmentally Friendlier

Because LED lights last longer and use less energy, they are a much more environmentally friendly than neon lights. Since your sign has a longer life expectancy, you won’t have to worry about replacing your sign, which will be better for the environment and your budget.

5. A More Durable Lighting Solution

Neon lights are fragile. Typically, you should hire a professional to replace them. You even have to be careful when you are moving the sign because the lights are likely to break if you drop the sign. LED lights are far more durable, so if you do accidentally drop them, you can simply pick the light up and resume what you were doing.

6. Safety

One of the reasons why neon signs are so delicate is because the tubing is made of glass. One of the main sources for the soft neon light they create is the mercury in them. It isn’t any more dangerous than normal fluorescent lights, but there are some inherent risks with both. By comparison, LED lights do not contain any potentially dangerous materials. They will not require special handling or disposal either, making them a far safer option.

Conclusion

Your sign is more than just a way of advertising your business. The warmth and nostalgia of a neon sign are nice, but it is becoming increasingly less practical. If you are interested in learning more about LED signs and your options, visit our website or contact us. We can answer your questions about replacing your sign, provide an estimate, or help you with your other sign and awning needs.