Do Neon Lights Ever Burn Out & Die? Care Tips To Avoid Them Going Bad & Running Out
An inquiry into the lifespan of neon lights leads to the question ‘do neon lights burn out?’ This is a common concern, and we explore the longevity of neon lights in this post. Read on to learn the facts along with valuable care tips to extend the lifespan of your neon signs. Discover essential maintenance practices to sustain the brilliance of your cherished signs for many years to come.
Key Takeaways
- Neon lights can burn out over time, often due to electrical malfunctions, damage, or general wear and tear.
- Warning signs that a neon sign is approaching the end of its lifespan include flickering, dimming, and dead sections.
- Repairs may be possible, but replacement is usually the better option when your neon lights die.
- Upkeep and maintenance are important for preserving the lifespan of your neon signs.
- We supply high-quality, durable custom LED signs built to stand the test of time. You choose the design and we bring it to life in the highest quality.
Do Neon Lights Burn Out?
Neon lights can burn out over time. Custom glass neon signs are a popular choice for vibrant, decorative signage, but they are prone to wear. It is a common misconception that their glow is perpetual - though it is long-lasting, there are many threats to the integrity of a glass neon sign, and eventual burnout is inevitable. LED neon signs are more durable, but the LEDs will lose brightness over time and eventually flicker out.
Common signs of burnout for neon signs include:
- Dimming
- Flickering
- Dead sections
If you look out for these things, you can keep on top of repairs and maintenance needs. This will help you get maximum longevity from your signs and preserve their distinctive brilliance. We always recommend regular checks and prompt action with our custom LED signs to get maximum value for your investment.
Why Do Neon Lights Stop Working?
Neon lights can stop working due to various reasons. In traditional glass neon signs, which use a lot of electricity, the most common issue is electrical component failure. Transformers or electrodes develop issues that lead to malfunctions. Additionally, the fragility of the glass tubes means they are vulnerable to breakage, which compromises the gas’s ability to emit light.
LED neon lights are less vulnerable to wear and electrical failure, but the most likely causes of malfunctions include:
- Damaged electrical components
- Fading LED modules
All these issues will need addressing and, in very old signs, they could signal that it is time to replace them. Understanding the specific issues that affect different neon light types is crucial for timely troubleshooting to maximize their lifespan.
How Do Neon Lights Die & Run Out? Warning Signs Of Imminent Burnout
Neon lights do run out over time, resulting in eventual burnout. The early indicators that a neon light is nearing the end of its lifespan include flickering, dimming, and uneven illumination. Usually, these are signs of failing electrical components or damage to the glass tubing/LEDs. If you don’t address these issues, the neon sign may cease working altogether, though some issues are beyond repair and will require replacement parts.
Complete failure is evident when the entire sign fails to illuminate when you power it and switch on.
The common causes of these issues include:
- Accidental damage
- Wear over time
- Failure to maintain the sign
Regular checks and swift action upon noticing early signs can help extend the lifespan of your neon light. Be diligent to ensure you get maximum value for money from your investment and continue illuminating spaces with your iconic glowing sign.
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Can Neon Lights Be Repaired When They Go Bad?
It is often possible to intervene with repairs before neon lights die completely. Common repair methods include:
- Fixing or replacing faulty electrical components
- Repairing or replacing damaged glass tubing/LEDs
- Addressing issues with transformers
However, it can be challenging to repair these types of devices at home, as specialist knowledge, skills and equipment may be needed.
Glass tubes are delicate and the intricate electrical components need to be handled correctly. You may find it more cost-effective to replace parts of a sign - or the entire sign - rather than seeking repairs. A good custom neon sign maker will be able to point you in the direction of professional technicians who can accurately diagnose and repair neon lights or LED signs.
Act diligently to spot problems and address them early for the simplest, cheapest repairs. When neon lights go bad, it can be difficult to fix them and many people end up simply buying replacements.
How To Find Skilled Technicians To Repair Burnt Out Neon Lights?
If you want to find a skilled technician to repair neon signs that have burnt out, you will need to do a little research. Some sign manufacturers may be able to refer you to a technician, while other options include:
- Local businesses with neon signs
- Online reviews
Seek out technicians with experience in repairing your type of neon sign, as there are differences between repairing glass neon signs and LED ones. Evaluate reputations, reviews, and past work to ensure reliability.
As mentioned, repairing a neon sign can be challenging and may be prohibitively expensive. In some cases, it may be more prudent to simply replace a broken neon sign. In this case, explore our high-quality custom LED signs to get your ideal solution. We provide cutting-edge, energy-efficient signage created to your specifications at competitive prices. Whether for business or personal use, our neon LED lights are an outstanding solution.
Are Neon Signs Expensive To Fix?
The cost to fix neon lights that have burnt out can vary depending on the specific issue. Let’s look at a few common problems with traditional neon signs and LED neon lights and explore potential repair costs:
- Failed electrical components: The cost could range from $50 to $200.
- Damaged transformer: Replacement could cost between $150 and $300.
- Broken glass tubing: Repairs cost between $200 and $500.
- Failed LED modules: $100 to $300 for repairs
These estimates are only general guidelines, but they show that repairs can sometimes outweigh the initial cost of your neon sign. Factors like the severity of the issue, labor rates, and the technician’s expertise will all influence the actual cost. Remember that regular maintenance can decrease the risk that you will need major repairs, thus extending the longevity of your neon sign.
How Long Do Neon Lights Last Before Dying?
Typically, a glass neon sign lasts between 8 and 15 years. However, there are various factors that influence how long neon signs last, including:
- Usage hours
- Environmental conditions
- The quality of the components used
- Maintenance
If a sign operates 24/7, it may have a shorter lifespan than one used intermittently, though some believe that continuous usage is better for the neon. Exposure to harsh weather conditions can significantly reduce a neon sign’s lifespan. WIthout regular, diligent maintenance, neon lights burn out far quicker, so commit to the upkeep of your investment.
LED neon signs are known for their durability and are far less likely to be damaged. Their lifespan frequently exceeds 50,000 hours and you can switch them on and off at will. With robust construction and energy-efficient performance, you will enjoy a lengthy lifespan with an LED neon light.
Care Tips For A Longer Use
To prolong the lifespan of your neon sign, you should be attentive to its upkeep. Try to avoid continuous usage if possible to reduce the risk of overheating as well as wear and tear on components, as these commonly cause neon lights to burn out prematurely.
Learn how to clean neon signs and implement a routine cleaning schedule to prevent dirt accumulation on the glass or silicone tubes. If used outside, shield your neon light from the weather to reduce the risk of damage, and inspect it regularly for signs of flickering or dimming.
We recommend implementing surge protectors to safeguard your product against electrical fluctuations. When not in use, conserve energy by switching off your neon sign and you may even extend its operating life further. These care tips can be helpful in ensuring your neon light retains its vibrant glow for as long as possible.
Can Neon Lights Break?
Glass neon signs are particularly susceptible to breakage under certain conditions. The glass tubing is fragile, and can crack or shatter due to:
- Impacts
- Vibrations
- Extreme temperature changes
If you mishandle your neon sign during installation or maintenance, you risk breaking it. When the glass tubing is damaged, the neon gas will leak out and the sign will not work until the glass tubing is replaced. Also, overheating of electrical components is not uncommon, causing traditional neon lights to die when the electrics fail.
LED neon signs don’t include glass tubes or gas, so they are more resilient. The silicone tubing is flexible and robust, meaning it is less vulnerable to breakage. The durability of LED neon lights is one of their big attractions, and you can have greater peace of mind about their longevity.
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Make Your Custom Neon SignsWhich Runs Out First? LED Vs Traditional Neon
A comparison of LED vs glass neon lights will lead to the conclusion that LED lights typically outlast traditional neon signs. This isn’t because the traditional ones don’t have innate longevity; it is because they are more prone to faults or damage. Here are the comparative lifespans:
- Glass neon signs: 8,000 to 15,000 hours, or 8-15 years
- LED neon signs: 30,000 to 100,000 hours, or 15+ years
One of the key factors behind this difference is the mechanisms of light emission. LEDs use very little electricity, so they emit minimal heat as they operate. Traditional neon lights use more power and also emit heat during the ionization process. This means they are more likely to become worn or damaged, while LED neon lights offer a more enduring, energy-efficient solution. Ultimately, however, all neon lights go bad.
Are Neon Lights Resistant To Extreme Weather?
Neon signs, particularly traditional glass ones, are vulnerable to damage from extreme weather conditions. Extremes of heat and cold, or heavy precipitation, can have a negative impact on the performance and durability of neon signs. With exposure to extreme conditions, neon lights are more likely to go bad and suffer issues like flickering, dimming, or breakage.
When you order LED lights from us, you can specify that you want custom outdoor neon signs with built-in protections against the elements. However, we still recommend protecting these signs from exposure to severe elements by encasing and sheltering them. LED signs are a little more durable, but no neon signs are immune from burning out if exposed to extreme weather.
Can Neon Lights Get Wet?
Neon lights are generally not designed for direct exposure to water or moisture, particularly traditional glass ones. If water infiltrates the circuitry, it could compromise electrical components and cause performance issues or even complete failure. It is important to protect neon lights against exposure to rain and moisture to ensure their safety and longevity.
Install your neon signs in covered, sheltered areas if using them outdoors. Protective enclosures can mitigate the risk of water damage to protect them against burning out. LED neon signs are a little more resistant to moisture, but they would still be vulnerable if exposed to extreme precipitation. Take measures to protect your neon lights if you want to sustain their performance in outdoor environments.
Do Neon Lights Freeze & Go Bad?
Traditional glass neon signs can be adversely affected by freezing temperatures. The liquid neon inside the tubes can solidify, which may cause a temporary malfunction or could even break the sign. Similarly, extreme heat can be problematic for these signs, leading to issues like overheating or even tube breakage.
If you have a neon sign installed outdoors, it is essential to protect it from extreme temperatures by shading from direct sunlight and sheltering from freezing weather. LED neon lights, with their solid-state construction, are generally more resilient to temperature variations. That said, even LED neon lights can die through overexposure to extreme temperatures, so install them carefully for outdoor use in places with fluctuating weather conditions.
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Frequently Asked Questions About 'do Neon Lights Burn Out'
Do Neon Lights Burn Out?
Yes, neon lights burn out over time due to issues like overheating, electrical component failure, damage to tubing, and general wear and tear. Upkeep is important to prolong their lifespans.
Can Neon Lights Be Repaired?
In some cases, it is possible to repair neon lights. But the repairs can be costly and it may make more financial sense to simply replace your neon sign with a brand new one.
