how long do neon signs last?

Since more than a century ago, neon signs have been a popular type of illuminated signage. They are well-known for their vibrant colors and eye-catching visual appeal, but how long do neon signs last, and how can you extend the life of a neon sign? Let's find out in the following article.

How long do neon signs last?

Custom neon signs might last between 8 and 15 yearsCustom neon signs might last between 8 and 15 years

Custom neon signs, like all electrical equipment, have a limited lifespan and must be properly cared for to ensure optimal performance. With the right maintenance, a well-made neon sign can typically last between 8 and 15 years. Nevertheless, weather, humidity, and the quality of the components used in its construction can all have an impact on the lifespan of a neon sign.

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Neon Signs

Understanding the factors that can affect the lifespan of neon signs, such as material quality, ambient temperature, frequency of use as well as maintenance and care can help you extend the lifespan of your neon sign, ensuring it continues to provide reliable and vibrant illumination for years to come.

Quality of materials used

Unique Astronaut Collection custom neon signsUnique Astronaut Collection custom neon signs

The materials used in the manufacture of neon custom signs have a big impact on their lifespan. Cheaper materials may save money in the short term, but they may cause the neon sign to fail prematurely. So, to ensure the longevity and dependability of neon signs, you should consider using high-quality materials.

Ambient temperature

The longevity of neon signs can be significantly impacted by ambient temperature. High temperatures can cause pressure to build up, potentially causing the neon to crack or break. Similarly, extremely low temperatures can reduce performance and cause failure. As a result, it is critical to avoid exposing neon signs to extreme temperatures in order to extend their lifespan.

Frequency of use

The frequency using a neon LED sign can also have an effect on their lifespan. Although neon signs are intended to operate continuously, frequent on/off cycling can stress them out and cause them to fail sooner than expected. Besides this, leaving neon signs on for extended periods of time without rest can have an impact on the sign's performance.

Frequency of use can affect custom neon signsFrequency of use can affect Good Vibes Only custom neon signs

To avoid damage and ensure optimal performance, strike a balance between frequency of use and allowing the sign to rest on a regular basis. Therefore, neon sign longevity may also be increased with appropriate upkeep and care, such as yearly cleaning and inspections.

Maintenance and care

The life expectancy of personalized neon signs can be affected by maintenance and care, which is one of the essential factors. Regular cleaning and inspection can help prevent the accumulation of dust, which can obstruct the flow of electricity and reduce the brightness of the sign.

Maintenance and care can affect custom neon signsMaintenance and care can affect Pizza Slice neon signs

Meanwhile, examining for signs of damage or wear, such as cracks or fading, can also aid in identifying potential problems before they are broken. Besides that, handling and storage during transportation or installation should be done gently and properly to help prevent neon sign damage. 

Extending the Lifespan of Neon Signs

There are numerous methods for extending the life of a neon sign. They include routine maintenance and cleaning, adjusting the voltage and current, keeping it out of reach of curious onlookers, and weather protection. In the following paragraphs, we'll look at how they can help extend the lifespan of neon lights.

Regular maintenance and cleaning

Maintaining and cleaning neon signs on a regular basis is critical to extending their lifespan. The neon tubes' brightness may be diminished as a result of dust and debris building up on the surface of the sign, which may obstruct the electrical current.

Clean custom neon signsClean Galaxy Brain LED custom neon signs

In this case, regular cleaning helps remove build-up and keeps the sign looking bright and vibrant. Besides that, regular inspection is another component of maintenance to spot any signs of harm or deterioration, like cracks, fading, or flickering. Therefore, early detection of these problems can prevent their worsening and extend the life of the sign. 

Adjusting the voltage and current

Increasing the voltage and current is one of the best ways to extend the life of neon signs. An excessive voltage or current can cause overheating and shorten the sign's lifespan.

Adjusting the voltage and current help improve custom neon signsAdjusting the voltage and current help improve custom neon signs

Insufficient voltage or current, on the other hand, can cause dim or flickering tubes, indicating a lack of proper energy flow. They are the reasons why adjusting the voltage and current levels for the sign can help prevent damage while also ensuring optimal performance.

Keep it out of reach of curious people

Keeping custom neon signs out of the reach of curious children or home pets is also essential for extending their lives. Since neon signs are frequently vibrant and appealing to the eye, they make an alluring target for curious hands, so accidental bumps, knocks, or touches to the sign can cause damage.

“AKATSUKI” custom neon signs“AKATSUKI” custom neon signs

Placing the neon sign in a safe place out of reach of curious children or pets can help prevent unwanted damage. Furthermore, neon signs must be installed securely to avoid accidental falls or damage caused by improper handling.

Protecting from weather and other environmental factors

You should protect neon custom logo signs from weather and other environmental factors in order to extend their lifespan. As mentioned before, the sign can be damaged by rain, wind, sunlight, and extreme temperatures.

Take good care of custom neon signsTake good care of custom neon signs 

Outdoor signs can benefit from weather-related damage prevention by being installed in covered or protected areas. So, to ensure that neon signs are properly protected and can continue to provide vibrant and dependable illumination for years to come, it is crucial to take into account the environmental factors surrounding their installation.

With our neon signs, there’s no need to worry

If you're looking for a place to buy stunning neon signs with a long lifespan, HelenLedCo is a great option. Each neon sign is handcrafted with care, using high-quality materials and adhering to manufacturer specifications.

“MAGICAL UNICORN” Gorgeous custom neon signs“MAGICAL UNICORN” Gorgeous custom neon signs

Furthermore, if you order an outdoor neon sign, we make it waterproof and use appropriate materials to protect it from environmental factors. Come to HelenLedCo for a neon sign that will undoubtedly satisfy you.