All too often, neon sign companies get calls from clients asking about the flickering neon sign or broken tubing, or other problems. Although neon tubing is touted as being a budget-friendly and durable option for many businesses, it does have some drawbacks. Not all neon signs are made according to the same standard! The good news is that most neon signs can be repaired, but they have to meet certain criteria first.
If you have a neon sign that has been acting up or is in disrepair, keep reading.
About Neon Signs
Most of us know that luminous tubes, also called neon tubes, are filled with low-pressure gas. When the neon gas is exposed to a high voltage, it begins to glow brilliantly. Neon signs are excellent options for both indoor and outdoor applications since they make eye-catching displays.
Neon signs do require some basic maintenance and recharging to keep them from malfunctioning. They also need to be made of quality materials to last the standard 8 to 15 years. The general life expectancy of the sign’s transformer is around 5 to 7 years, but the ones that are bigger or of better quality can last between 10 to 15 years.
When Neon Signs Are Repairable
The question that often follows “Can neon signs be repaired?” is “How well is the sign made?” In other words, when a neon sign is composed of high-quality items, the problem will be easy to spot. Usually, a professional can take one look at the sign and figure out whether you have a voltage problem or if something is wrong with the transformer.
You can also do some repairs yourself if you are confident. Nuts and bolts can be easily removed, cleaned, and swapped out with newer items when necessary. Make sure you have powered down the neon sign. Never handle a sign while it is turned on since the transformer can produce anywhere between 4,000-12,000 volts of electricity.
If you have an older neon sign, do not attempt repairing or maintaining it by yourself. Take it to the pros. Neon signs that were constructed prior to the newer regulations and standards can be dangerous. The transformers oftentimes have extremely high voltages—close to 15,000 volts—that can be fatal if handled incorrectly. Sometimes, older neon signs can also have leaded glass.
When Neon Signs Cannot Be Repaired
There are a couple of reasons your neon sign may be deemed irreparable. First, if the neon sign was not manufactured with high-end components, it may be easier to simply purchase a new sign. Since most of the pieces will have to be configured to suit your sign, it takes time and effort.
Next, you have to consider the age of the sign and what materials went into making the glass and the gas. Some older models of neon signs were made with toxic materials, like mercury and lead. These components will be too dangerous to handle, and so many repair shops will turn these signs away.
If you are unsure, send us a picture of the neon sign and any information about it you have on hand. We will be able to help you figure out the best route.
Troubleshooting Neon Lights
If your neon light is not operating properly, there are a couple of steps you can take to determine whether it needs to be repaired or not.
- Step 1: Check the energy supply. Find where the voltage supply is located and test the connections to make sure nothing is coming apart. Use a multimeter. If your neon sign is not receiving enough power, the light will flicker and blink on and off. You may need a set-up transformer to upgrade the voltage.
- Step 2: Search for broken connections and wires. Any shorted or broken wires will decrease the power supply. These will have to be replaced.
- Step 3: Look for glass tube leaks. A neon gas leak results in dimmer lights since the air kills the ions. Depending on how much the gas has depleted, you may not be able to get this repaired. However, it is possible to replace a leaking tube with a new one.
- Step 4: Look at the transformer. Ruined transformers cause a long list of problems. The quickest solution is to replace it.
One note: Do not shake the glass to check if it is cracked or broken. You will only make the crack larger or worsen the issue.
Gotten through the troubleshooting list and still having trouble? You probably need a professional’s touch.
Need Neon Signs Repaired? Call Tupp Signs Today!
Neon signs are unique, brilliant, and fun—but they do not last as long as LED signage. You will have to maintain it and may still run into problems. Have a neon sign that is flickering or looking duller by the day? Run through the troubleshooting list to see if you can find any problems and then contact Tupp Signs. We have the knowledge and experience to repair neon signs of any shape and size.
Get in touch with us by filling out the contact form. We look forward to hearing from you.