Question 1

Do Neon Signs Need to Be Plugged In?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Neon Signs need to be plugged in to a dependable outlet, it may be three pronged or two pronged depending on the sign and transformer used. An unreliable outlet will result in the neon sign shutting off. However most outlets do not have an issue but because of the safety feature on neon transformers any issues with the electrical flow from the outlet will cause the transformer to shut off for safety. The signs can either be hard wired to an electrical point using the help of an experienced electrician or a simple plug can be left for ease of instillation.

Question 2

Do Neon Signs Get Hot?

Accepted Answer

Neon Signs have a slight level of heat to them but anything in the excessive range where it burns to the touch likely indicates the neon tube is failing and should be replaced. This happens more often with smaller footage pieces of neon that larger. Sometimes micro cracks exist within the piece and they survived for a while before the gas escapes the tube and it no longer functions. A replacement is needed if this happens, which should be the responsibility of the neon bender for replacement. Most sign shops offer a warranty for this issue as it is not the customers fault.

Question 3

Can Neon Signs Be Outside?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Neon signs can be installed outside. It requires waterproofing certain elements and applying weather proof parts to better maintain the stress of changing weather conditions. If done correctly a neon sign can thrive outdoors - note these special parts can be more expensive than their indoor rated counterparts so expect the pricing for an outdoor sign to be a degree more expensive.

Question 4

Can Neon Signs Change Color?

Accepted Answer

With Glass Neon Signs once the tube is made using the phosphor powder pre-coated inside and the gas has been inputted it is impossible to change the color. LED signs have diodes that allow for color changing.

Question 5

How Do neon Signs Work?

Accepted Answer

Neon signs work by passing an electrical current through a tube filled with neon gas. The tube is made of glass and is shaped into various letters or designs.

The electrical current ionizes the neon gas, which causes the gas molecules to emit light. The color of the light depends on the type of gas used in the tube. Neon gas emits a reddish-orange color, while other gases like argon, helium, and krypton can produce different colors.

The tube is typically filled with a small amount of mercury, which helps to create the electrical current when voltage is applied to the electrodes at each end of the tube.

To create the various shapes and designs, the glass tube is heated and bent using a torch to the desired shape. The electrodes are then sealed onto each end of the tube, and the tube is filled with gas and a small amount of mercury.

Neon signs are known for their bright and colorful glow, which can be seen even in daylight. They are commonly used for advertising and are popular in bars, restaurants, and storefronts.

Question 6

How long do neon signs last?

Accepted Answer

The lifespan of a glass neon sign can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the materials used, the operating conditions, and the amount of use it receives.

Generally, well-maintained neon signs has the potential to last decades long. Some signs have been known to last up to 40 or 60 years with proper care. For example Clifton's Republic in Los Angeles had a neon sign that was left on accidentally within a wall inclosure for 77 years and is still glowing to this day!

The lifetime of the neon sign is dependent entirely of the care you provide it but it does have the ability to last your entire lifetime and then some!

Factors that can affect the lifespan of a neon sign include exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, and vibration. Over time, the electrodes at the end of the glass tube can also degrade and affect the performance of the sign.

Regular maintenance can help extend the life of a neon sign. This includes keeping the sign clean and dry, checking for any damage or wear, and replacing any damaged components. Additionally, turning off the sign when not in use can also help prolong its lifespan greatly.

Question 7

What are neon signs used for?

Accepted Answer

Neon signs are commonly used for advertising and decorative purposes. They are popular in bars, restaurants, and storefronts to attract customers and create a distinctive ambiance.

Neon signs can be used to display a business name, logo, or product, and can be designed in a variety of shapes and colors to match the theme or branding of the establishment. They are often used in conjunction with other types of signage, such as channel letters or hand painted sign painting.

Neon signs are also used in art and design, as they offer a unique and eye-catching way to display text and images. They have been used in installations, sculptures, and other artistic works to create a dramatic and colorful effect.

In addition, neon signs have historical and cultural significance, particularly in the United States, where they were widely used in the mid-20th century. They are often associated with the glamour and excitement of urban nightlife and have become a symbol of nostalgia and retro style.

Question 8

Are neon signs dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Neon signs are generally safe when used and maintained properly. However, as with any electrical device, there are some potential safety concerns to be aware of.

The high-voltage electrical current used to power neon signs can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. It is important to ensure that the sign is properly installed by a licensed electrician and that all wiring and electrical components are in good condition.

Neon signs also contain small amounts of mercury, which can be hazardous if the sign is broken or if the gas is released into the air. However, the amount of mercury in a neon sign is typically small enough that it does not pose a significant risk to human health, as long as proper cleanup procedures are followed in the event of a broken sign.

In addition, neon signs can be fragile and break easily, which can pose a hazard if glass shards are not properly cleaned up. It is important to handle neon signs with care and to avoid placing them in areas where they are likely to be knocked over or damaged.

Overall, neon signs can be a safe and effective way to add a unique and colorful element to your business or home decor, as long as proper safety procedures are followed.

Question 9

When were neon signs invented?

Accepted Answer

Neon signs were invented in the early 20th century, with the first neon sign being demonstrated in Paris, France in 1910 by Georges Claude, a French engineer and inventor.

Claude had been experimenting with different gases and electrical currents and discovered that when high-voltage electricity was passed through a tube filled with neon gas, the gas would emit a bright and colorful light. He realized that this could be used to create a new type of signage and lighting system.

Claude's first neon signs were used to advertise a French automobile company, and they quickly gained popularity for their bright and eye-catching glow. By the 1920s, neon signs had become a common feature in cities around the world, and they continued to be a popular form of advertising and decorative lighting throughout the mid-20th century.

Neon signs were first introduced to Los Angeles in the early 1920s. They quickly became popular among businesses and advertisers as a way to create eye-catching and memorable signage.

One of the earliest examples of neon signs in Los Angeles was the "Hollywoodland" sign, which was erected in 1923 to promote a new real estate development. The sign originally featured individual light bulbs, but these were later replaced with neon tubes to create a more dramatic effect.

Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, neon signs became increasingly common in Los Angeles and other major cities around the world. They were used to promote a wide range of products and services, from hotels and restaurants to movie theaters and gas stations.

Today, Los Angeles is still known for its vibrant and colorful neon signage, which can be seen throughout the city in historic districts, commercial areas, and entertainment venues. The city is home to several iconic neon signs, that have shine upon the Los Angeles streets for decades and decades.

Question 10

Where to buy neon signs?

Accepted Answer

When buying a neon sign it is important to shop local, as neon signs are quite fragile it is challenging to ship safely. Also current crating and shipping rates are at an all time high causing the expense of shipping these signs to be much higher. This can all be removed by going with a local sign shop to fabricate the neon sign for you. This can be a good option if you are looking for a custom sign that is tailored to your specific needs or branding.

When purchasing a neon sign, be sure to consider factors like the size, design, and color of the sign, as well as the quality of the materials and the reputation of the seller. Additionally, be sure to factor in the cost of shipping and any installation or maintenance requirements.

Neon Flamingo offers for sale a wide range of neon sign options for the Los Angeles area, please feel free to contact us to start the production of your custom neon sign!

Question 11

What size of a neon sign is ideal for a wedding?

Accepted Answer

A medium-sized neon sign typically measures around 3 to 4 feet in length and 1 to 2 feet in height, which would provide enough space for the wedding couple to pose in front of the sign while also allowing the sign to be easily transported and positioned at the photoshoot location.

Of course, the size of the neon sign should also be in proportion to the overall size of the wedding backdrop, and the sign's design should complement the overall theme and style of the wedding. It's always a good idea to consult with a professional neon sign maker or event planner to determine the appropriate size and design of a neon sign for a wedding photoshoot backdrop.

Question 12

Can Neon Signs Be Battery Operated?

Accepted Answer

Neon Glass Signs cannot be powered via a battery source, the amount of voltage required to power the sign will drain the battery completely within minutes.

Question 13

How much do your custom neon signs cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost per each neon sign ranges due to complexity, labor, and raw materials used during production. It is challenging to offer out specific pricing without learning the full scope of the project, our typical range for projects are $750 & up. However, the average of costs for our signs typical falls in between the range $1,200-2,000 for straight forward projects.

Question 14

Can Neon Signs Be Repaired?

Accepted Answer

Yes glass neon signs can be repaired! Often the issue is due to one piece of the glass being broken, which would require for that piece to be removed from the sign and either patched up or be completely remade. Another possible error could be that the transformer has gone bad after years and years of use (or a faulty one). With a neon sign repair if the breaks in the glass are not bad it is quite easy to repair and fix the sign to good as new standards. The cost to repair a neon sign will be a fraction of the cost to completely getting a new sign so it is worth the investment to repair your glass neon sign whenever a problem does occur.

Question 15

Are Neon Signs Expensive?

Accepted Answer

Yes glass neon signs are expensive due to the labor, materials, and skill required to make them.

The materials that are used in a neon sign include:

-transformers (run around $50-250 depending on brand)

-glass (comes as a 4 or 5 foot hollow glass stick with desired color already embedded the range in cost per stick is from $4-25 depending on color used and most signs consist of many sticks)

-electrodes, GTO wire, tube supports, electrode caps: these miscellaneous parts are all required on a sign and can be around $20-50 in cost per sign generally (this is often the lowest expensive in sign production)

-labor: there are many labor intensive steps in making a neon sign, designing and creating a neon blue print, getting the glass to molten heat to be able to shape and create the correct pattern for the sign, block out painting all the units so the light is exposed in the correct places per the design, fabricating the backing for the sign including drilling all holes and attaching all tube supports/structural components, wiring up the sign so that it can glow correctly. All of these steps lead to each sign requiring multiple hours of intensive work (from 10 to 40 hours depending on the sign detail!)

-skilled labor: because it takes many years to become proficient at neon bending you are hiring a craft professional who has spent hundreds and hundreds of hours learning the craft and breaking glass and materials to get to the professional caliber this skilled craftsmanship required ends up making its way to the cost of the sign.

As a result all these factors using high quality safe materials and skilled labor result in the cost of the sign being quite significant. This investment can pay off however as the craftsmanship is at such a high caliber that the sign can glow for decades on decades whereas with an LED sign you are likely to get approximately 4 years of use out of it before it needs to be replaced. Neon is the superior lighting source for something you want to last generations and LED for something very temporary.

Question 16

Are Neon Signs Bad for the Environment?

Accepted Answer

No neon signs are not bad for the environment because of the following qualities:

1) They are made up of inert noble gasses that cannot react with anything to create a bad chemical reaction. The gasses that are inside neon tubes are already present in our air at low qualities that need to be purified out. When a neon sign breaks the gasses return to the air where they were extracted from.

2) You get a great lifetime out of glass neon, neon signs are durable and if taken care of correctly they can last decades if you compare that to LED neon signs which are only able to provide roughly 4 years of lighting time before they end up in the landfill. Neon glass signs are the superior environmental option because there is less waste over the long term with them, the parts can be fixed and used again whereas LEDs are much more challenging to repair and keep in use once they start to go bad. Neon glass sign result in less waste long term which is a very good factor for the environment.

Question 17

Do Neon Signs Use A Lot Of Electricity?

Accepted Answer

There is a frequent misunderstanding in the cost of running a neon sign. A lot of people have the presumption that a neon sign will cause their electricity bill to be very high. On average Los Angeles area households and residents pay **_26.0 cents per kilowatt hour_** and if we do the math say you had an average length of a neon sign at around 10 feet of neon glass that would use around 40 watts of power. If you had that on for 24 hours a day we are looking at around 300 kilowatts per year. The total for that on your electricity bill is about $78 extra for the full year of running it 24/7 (which likely would not happen as it is better to give the neon transformer some time each day to rest). Running a sign year round would only bare an extra $78 on your bill but has the potential to attract so many more customers and eyes to your sign! That very much outweighs the electricity bill associated!

Question 18

Are Neon Signs Dangerous?

Accepted Answer

If a neon sign has been installed and created using UL Standards then they are absolutely not dangerous!

We create all our signs strictly following the UL code to ensure maximum customer safety.

Some dangers when not following UL code include using the wrong materials in production such as the: transformer (one that does not have an automatic regulating shut off feature), electrodes (not using the correct rating for the amount of glass), as well as the wrong thickness of the GTO wire (this must match the transformers rating not be any degree lower), additionally if any splice in the GTO is not correctly insulated and covered this offers exposure to live wire which may be a fire hazard. Also the instillation of the neon is very important, the correct tube supports should be used to avoid repeated contact from drywall to neon tube and neon tube to neon tube.

When you go with a skilled neon craftsperson all these issues will be considered and the correct high quality materials will be used to avoid any of these potential hazards. This is why it is important to hire and use a professional when working with glass neon signs.

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