Neon signs have been popular since the 1920s when neon lights first came to America.
Made world-famous thanks to cities such as Las Vegas, neon signs are still used today to market restaurants, casinos, bars, and hotels.
When investing in a neon sign, many of our customers have questions about the designs and colors available, but we also frequently get asked about the shelf life of them as well.
To answer this question, we first need to understand the components that make up a neon sign and how each can impact how long your neon display will last.
(Before we carry on you might like to take a look at our she shed neon light or our man cave neon light collections).
Average Shelf Life of Neon Signs
Typically, neon signs will last around 10 years if they are kept in good condition and made with durable and high-quality neon tubes.
However, several components make up a neon sign, and each can suffer damage.
- Transformer
- Glass tubes
- Wires and plug
To make sure your neon sign stands the test of time, you may need to replace a broken tube or the transformer after a couple of years.
While this is a straight forward task, many people forget to check their signs for damage and might be tempted to buy a new sign.
So, if your sign isn’t as vibrant as it used to be, before you put it in the bin, carefully inspect the transformer.
If the transformer light is flickering, it should be changed.
You should also clean your sign every couple of months, especially if it’s indoors, such as above a bar.
Dust can quickly build up on the surface of the fragile neon tubes and cause your sign to lose its glow.
If you notice that your red neon light starts to shine a dull light orange color, your sign may require further maintenance, so contact an expert for further assistance.
Can Neon Signs Be Fixed?
Absolutely! If your neon light is not working, there are a couple of things you can do.
1: Switch off your neon sign and remove any broken glass with gloves.
2: Inspect the neon sign transformer life. If faulty, replace with a new transformer.
2: Check the neon tubes for defects. If one neon tube is broken or damaged, it can impact your whole display and cause all of your lights to go out.
3: Only when your neon sign is switched off and unplugged from the mains, carefully inspect the wires for any damage.
Neon signs can be fixed, repaired, or replaced, but if you choose to invest in LED neon lights, you can save yourself time and money in the future!
(BTW - Whilst you are here you can click here to see our neon signs of animals or here to buy a Japanese neon sign).
LED Neon Lights Are Low Maintenance and Long-Lasting
Illuminated LED signs are far more economical and energy-efficient than a traditional neon sign.
Plus, LED neon signs are often more durable since they use PVC over fragile glass tubing.
This means that even if you were to drop the sign, it won’t break as easily as a traditional neon display.
By investing in new cutting edge flex technology over a traditional neon light, you can enjoy the beauty and vintage appeal of the signs without the financial investment and concerns about damage and longevity.
At Neon Mama, our LED neon signs can be made bespoke to your unique requirements and come with an easy to use power supply and plug for your country.
With a brightness dimmer included, enjoy high-quality neon signs that are durable, eco-friendly, and require minimal maintenance.
