LED Neon Sign Maintenance – 12 Easy Steps

LED neon signs are a vibrant addition to any space, from bars to businesses and even homes. However, to ensure that your LED neon sign continues to shine brightly and catch the eye of every passerby, you need to keep it in top condition with these 12 important LED neon sign maintenance tips. This guide will take you through the essential steps to keep your sign working and maintain an LED neon sign, and ensure it remains as dazzling as the day you bought it.

Understanding Your LED Neon Sign

The first step in maintaining any LED neon sign is to understand a little about the technology – this makes us aware of what we can and can’t do to maintain an LED neon sign effectively.  LED neon signs are a modern alternative to traditional gas neon signs, which are made from fragile glass filled with neon gas.  LED neon signs, on the other hand, consist of tiny LED lights encased in flexible polymer tubing. This design allows for greater durability and versatility in terms of the shapes and designs that can be achieved.  This alters the way we might clean and look after our LED sign.

Choosing the Perfect Spot for Your LED Neon Sign

When purchasing an LED neon sign, you probably have a specific spot in mind where you want to hang it. While LED neon signs are more durable and can be made waterproof, unlike traditional neon signs, it’s crucial to consider the location carefully. Even though the sign itself can withstand water, the adapter and electric cable will need to be plugged into a socket, which should be kept dry. If you’re considering an outdoor location, be sure to protect your sign with an acrylic box to shield it from the elements and potential damage.  Choosing the wrong or bad location can greatly impact the longevity of your new sign.

The Importance of Regular Dusting & Cleaning

LED neon signs are safe to handle and care for, as they don’t emit any heat. However, like any item in your home or business, they can accumulate dust over time. Regular dusting maintenance is essential to keep your LED neon sign looking its best. Use a feather duster or a soft cloth to remove loose dust, ensuring to unplug the sign before cleaning. For best results, dust your sign regularly to prevent dust build-up.

Dealing with Stains and Grime

Over time, your LED neon sign might acquire some stains. Cleaning these off is simple, but it’s crucial to unplug your sign first for safety. You can use a mixture of water and household ammonia to gently wipe away any dirt or stains on your sign. Vinegar and baking soda, or even plain water, can also work well.

Preserving your LED Neon Sign with Regular Switch Offs

To prolong the life of your LED neon sign, it’s advisable to switch it off periodically. If your sign is in constant use, try to turn it off for 24 hours every fortnight. This brief period of rest can help extend your sign’s lifespan significantly.

Professional LED Neon Sign Maintenance & Repairs: When and Why

While LED neon signs generally have easy upkeep, there may come a time when professional repairs are necessary. If parts of your sign fail to illuminate, or if the transformer’s status light is flashing, it’s best to call a professional. Attempting to fix these issues yourself could lead to further damage or even pose a safety risk.

Knowing When to Replace Your LED Neon Sign

Despite your best efforts to maintain and care for your LED neon sign, there may come a time when it needs to be replaced – sometimes an error message “sign not working” might be displayed or there is just no response when turning it on. Just like traditional neon signs, LED ones have a limited lifespan. However, the cost of operating and replacing your LED signs is significantly lower, making them a more cost-efficient option in the long run.

Clean Your Neon Sign: A Special Case with Glass Neon

While LED neon signs are increasingly popular, traditional glass neon signs still have their charm. Cleaning a glass neon sign requires more care due to the fragility of the glass. Using a soft brush and a gentle hand will help remove dust and grime without risking damage to the sign.

The Basics of Neon Sign Maintenance for Outdoor Signs

Whether your LED neon sign is located indoors or outdoors can significantly impact how you maintain it. Indoor signs may require less frequent cleaning than outdoor ones exposed to the elements, but both types benefit from regular dusting and gentle cleaning with a damp cloth.

Caring for Your Neon Sign

In many cases, your LED neon sign will need minimal care or attention, but in particular bar neon signs are often exposed to smoke and grease and may require more frequent cleaning. Using an ammonia-based cleaner can effectively remove grime and stains. Always remember to unplug your sign before cleaning and to dry it thoroughly afterward – we recommend using a dry paper towel or leaving it off to dry naturally.  Never turn the sign on when it’s still damp.

The Most Common Question About How To Maintain an LED Neon Sign

In conclusion, maintaining an LED neon sign is a straightforward task that can help ensure your sign stays bright and beautiful for many years to come. Regular dusting, gentle cleaning, appropriate placement, and professional repairs, when needed, are all keys to keeping your sign in top shape. With these tips, your LED neon sign is sure to continue adding a fun and vibrant touch to your space.

At Neon By Design we’ve got your back, if you have bought an LED sign from us and you have any questions about the maintenance of your neon sign, then please contact our team for assistance.