Neon Signs: Most frequently asked questions
NEON: There is only one type of neon. Hand made from straight lengths of glass that are heated over a flame and blown into while being bent to shape. It’s not made by a machine or mass produced… it’s an art form.
The very first demonstration of a neon sign in a modern form was in December 1910, by a man called Georges Claude at the Paris Motor Show, who displayed two 12-metre-long tubes filled with the gas. From that point, the world has been fascinated with neon signs and its popularity and uses has evolved over the many years.
The combination of their striking appearance, nostalgic appeal, and versatility makes neon signs a popular choice for businesses, events, and individuals looking to make a statement.
At A1DeSIGNS, we have over 120 years of experience in making neon signs and are always training the next generation in the art of glass bending and sign making to ensure that quality products are sent out for years to come.
We’re frequently being asked all sorts of questions about neon signs and here are some answers to the most popular queries around neon.
Are neon signs expensive?
The cost can vary depending on factors like size, complexity, and where you’re buying them.
Despite being a completely hand-made product, neon signs remain a cost-effective option in today’s market. Many people find the unique and vibrant look of neon signs worth the investment.
Are neon signs expensive to run?
No, the cost is low – less than your washing machine for the same amount of time, for example.
When looking at the running cost of neon, you are needing to work out the kWh. This is done by working out the wattage (real wattage) being used by the transformer and converting that into kilowatts. Then multiply that figure by the number of hours the transformer will be running. This is then multiplied by your electricity cost per kWh.
A cost of neon guide
If we take our 8kv/18mA wire wound transformer running at 95watts of power. The sign it powered was running for 10 hours a day for every single day of the year.
- 95 watts /1000 = 0.095kWh
- 0.095kWh x 10 hours per day = 0.950kWh
- 0.950kWh x 365 days = 346.75kWh over the year at 10 hours per day.
- 346.75kWh is then multiplied by the current cost for your electricity per
- kWh. The current average at the time of writing this is 14.37p/kWh.
- 346.75 x 14.37p = 4982.78p /100 = £49.82 for the year.
Are neon signs dangerous?
When installed correctly, they are no more dangerous than other household appliances.
Here’s why?
When installed correctly the voltage from a neon sign is insulated from being touched. If contact is made with a live connection, transformers generally have protection devices that switch the unit off.
Neon is generally classed as high voltage (above 990v), but the current is low on a neon transformer, in the milliamp (mA) range usually around 18-20mA. The socket in your house although only 240v can be as high as 30amps 30,000mA of current.
Voltage makes less of a difference in the case of an electric shock, whereas current makes a massive difference, for example static electricity is in the range of 25,000 – 35,000 Volts, but the current (measured in mJoules) is extremely low and not constant.
Current has the following effect on the body At 20-75mA of current someone would receive a painful jolt and loss of muscle control.
At 75-100mA of current, ventricular fibrillation of the heart can occur (uncoordinated twitching of ventricles).
At 100-200mA of current, ventricular fibrillation occurs, often resulting in death. At over 200mA of current, severe burns and severe muscle contractions occur and internal organs can be damaged, and the heart can stop due to chest muscles applying pressure. However, this clamping effect can prevent ventricular fibrillation, greatly improving the chances of survival if the victim is removed from the electrical circuit.
Are neon signs tacky?
Ultimately, whether a neon sign is considered tacky or not is subjective, and opinions on their aesthetic appeal can vary widely.
However, neon signage is on an upwards turn in terms of popularity with massive increase in demand for neon signs for bars, clubs and restaurants.
Once again being used to attract the crowds, neon is working its magic and becoming the go to for external signs. Some are taking the trend to the next level by installing these brilliant signs inside to create a retro feel.
Are neon signs plasma?
Neon signs don’t use plasma as the primary means of producing light, but they do involve a similar principle.
Inside a neon sign, there are glass tubes filled with either neon or other gases like argon, xenon, or krypton. When an electrical current is passed through these gases, it ionizes them, causing them to emit light. This process is similar to how plasma lights work, where gas is ionized to produce light.
However, neon signs specifically rely on the ionization of gases within glass tubes to create their characteristic glow, rather than generating plasma in the traditional sense.
Can neon signs be repaired?
Yes. Neon signs can be repaired.
Some common repairs we deal with include replacing broken glass tubes, fixing broken wires or connections, and replacing failing transformers or power supplies.
If your sign stops working for any reason, turn it off then on again. If this does not correct the issue, turn it off and leave it off, then contact us so we can assist with fixing it.
It is important to only trust trained professionals with repairing neon signs, as they can be dangerous to work with and require specialised knowledge and tools. * If you cannot bring your broken sign to us – we can come and investigate the fault and more-often-than not make any subsequent repairs on site.
Can neon signs be used outdoors?
This is quite an open question with various different points to consider, based on your specific needs. However, the short answer is yes, neon signs can be used outside as long as you have been provided with the right transformer. All neon glass is suitable for use outside, if you live in a particularly cold area (North Scotland for example) then you may need your tubes pumped with a certain mixture of gas, but generally the only thing deciding the sign’s use is the transformer it comes with.
Can neon signs be refilled?
Yes, neon signs can be refilled, but the process is quite complex and requires specialized equipment and expertise.
When a neon sign is made, the glass tubes are filled with gases like neon, argon, xenon, or krypton, and then sealed. Over time, due to factors like gas leakage or degradation, the gases inside the tubes can diminish, causing the sign to lose its brightness or stop working altogether.
To refill a neon sign, the sign must first be disassembled, and the old gas removed from the tubes. Then, the tubes are vacuumed to remove any impurities. Next, the desired gas is introduced into the tubes at the correct pressure and purity level. Finally, the tubes are sealed again to prevent gas leakage.
Refilling a neon sign requires specialized knowledge and equipment, so it’s essential to have the process performed by professionals who are experienced in working with neon signs. Additionally, not all neon signs may be refillable, depending on factors like the condition of the tubes and the type of gases used.
Can neon signs freeze?
The gas inside a Neon sign will not freeze. If water is on the outside of a tube and is exposed to a cold enough temperature, then this can freeze and can potentially damage / break the sign.
However, provided a sign is kept running it should generate enough heat at the electrodes to keep the gas ignited and should help prevent the tubes from becoming cold enough to allow ice to form.
How Long Do Neon Signs Last?
To answer the question simply: A long time!
Neon has a manufacturer’s predicted lifespan of 45- 50,000 hours. However, it can last much longer if installed correctly and manufactured to a high-quality standard. A great example is a sign found in America several years ago that had been running for over 70 years. Search Neon running 77 years on Google.
On average, well-maintained neon signs can last anywhere from 8 to 15 years. However, some can last even longer with proper care.
Factors such as exposure to weather, dust, and physical damage can also affect their longevity. Regular maintenance, including cleaning and checking for any issues with the wiring or gas tubes, can help extend the lifespan of neon signs.
Neon is made so that it can run at high voltages, there is no strain put on the product by doing so. Neon can also be run at low voltage; however, this again does nothing to the life expectancy when compared to high voltage.
It’s also worth noting that glass neon, the only true neon product in existence, does not burn fingers. Correctly assembled and installed, Neon is perfectly safe to touch. The electrodes do get warm, but won’t burn should you touch them, the electrical connection itself should always be covered with rubber caps, called shrouds or electrode sleeves, insulating the electrical connection along with any heat given off.
Another factor that enhances neon’s longevity is that neon can be easily repaired.
Some common repairs we deal with include replacing broken glass tubes, fixing broken wires or connections, and replacing failing transformers or power supplies.
* If you cannot bring your broken sign to us – we can come and investigate the fault and more-often-than not make any subsequent repairs on site.
It is important to only trust trained professionals with repairing neon signs, as they can be dangerous to work with and require specialised knowledge and tools.
Please contact us for more information. We’d love to chat to you and discuss options. See more of our neon art pieces on our Pinterest Page.
Neon Sign Safety – Explainer
As neon experts, at A1DeSIGNS, we’re frequently asked all manner of questions about neon. Rightly so, questions about the safety of neon pop up time and time again – so we’ve put together a quick question and answer around the topic of neon sign safety.
* Firstly, A lot of people conjure their own opinions on the safety of neon signs, without seeking advice from an expert. We are glad when people ask about the safety of neon lighting as we can help to get the correct message across.
Is neon safe?
YES; neon signage is incredibly safe to use, providing it is well looked after and treated with respect. Neon light dates back over 100 years to the time – so you can feel confident that modern day neon signs are more reliable and safe than ever before.
Why do people think neon isn’t safe?
A lot of people worry about the inert gases that are used to manufacture neon signs. Generally, it’s thought that these types of gases can be harmful if the tubes are damaged and the gases are released into the air. When neon lighting is damaged, the electric charge is instantly switched off, meaning there will be no current passing through the gases.
Also, neon signs operate at high voltages, typically in the range of 2,000 to 15,000 volts, depending on the sign’s size and design. It’s crucial to hire a qualified professional for installation to ensure the electrical components are handled correctly.
A1Designs commitment to neon safety
Every neon sign created by A1deSIGNS is done so in-house. Our signs are made from glass tubes and depending on the colour of the sign, a clear, powder coated glass or coloured glass will be used. The signs are then filled with neon or argon gas, which depends on what the final colour needs to be. Once the signs are complete, they are extremely safe and should have a long lifespan if they are well looked after.
Regular maintenance is important to keep neon signs in good condition. Checking for any damage, loose connections, or malfunctioning components can help prevent potential safety issues.
Check out more of our articles here. And please drop us a line if you’d like to chat about any of the details we’ve covered or to find out more about neon sign safety.
Neon Christmas Lights
Christmas is only a month away now. Why not add a festive LED flex neon sign to your decorations? We’ve got plenty of new – great-value – Yuletide options available to transform your home.
We’ve expanded our range of festive LED flex neon signs this year. We hope you like them.
Click on the titles to go to the individual product…
Please contact us for custom quotes for your Christmas ideas, designs or logos.
* LED Flex Neon signs are the more cost-effective alternative to our premium LED Neon. Although they do not compete with real neon in brightness and quality, they provide a neon-like effect at a cost-effective price point. The product is both durable and easy to install, it comes complete with a hanging kit or sign supports so you can either hang or mount your sign directly to the wall.
Check out more of our flex neon signs here.
We hope you have a happy Christmas from everyone at A1DeSIGNS.
Why choose neon art?
* Neon art is not used to advertise or guide. It is instead used to lighten up an environment or create a statement.
We’ve found at A1deSIGNS that neon art is getting more and popular. Whether used to liven up an office space, decorate a wall in your home, or for an external showpiece – neon art seems to be the go-to medium.
Neon art can be pretty much anything. And you do not have to be an artist to create a piece of neon art. If you have a phrase that means a lot to you, or a logo you wish to convert, we can help. Even something as basic as a name can be turned into neon.
Some benefits of neon art…
One Of A Kind
With the combination of your imagination, the different colours and backing materials available and the different styles, your art can be truly unique.
Impact Piece
A neon art piece is something that will pop, drawing the eye the moment you enter a room.
Portable
If you want to be able to travel with your neon, we can make it as a complete unit, so you can simply take it somewhere and plug it in.
Scale
Or we can also make your neon are as big as you like, the sky is the limit.
Interested in neon art?
The first step is to work out what you want. If you have some ideas, we will help go through the options to help work out what it is you are after. Once you know what the sign is going to say or look like, there are a range of backings to choose from.
Once all the details of your piece are decided and a price has been agreed, we then proceed to the artwork stage where we draw up your design so you can see what it is going to look like. When you are happy with how it looks, we then send the design down to our glass shop and they create your neon for you to enjoy.
Please contact us for more information. We’d love to chat to you and discuss options. See more of our neon art pieces on our Pinterest Page.
Can Neon Signs Be Repaired?
Can neon signs be repaired? This is a question we get asked regularly at A1deSIGNS and the simple answer is? Yes! Neon signs can very much be repaired.
If a sign is broken or not working properly, we can diagnose the issue and fix it. Give us a call, send over an email, or bring it in to us and we will do what we can to help.
Some common repairs we deal with include replacing broken glass tubes, fixing broken wires or connections, and replacing failing transformers or power supplies.
If your sign stops working for any reason, turn it off then on again. If this does not correct the issue, turn it off and leave it off, then contact us so we can assist with fixing it.
* If you cannot bring your broken sign to us – we can come and investigate the fault and more-often-than not make any subsequent repairs on site.
It is important to only trust trained professionals with repairing neon signs, as they can be dangerous to work with and require specialised knowledge and tools.
Check out more of our articles here. And please drop us a line if you’d like to chat about any of the details we’ve covered or to find out more about how we repair neon signs.
