Neon signs are electrified, luminous tube lights that contain neon and other gases. When neon lights are used in company signs, they help make a highly visually, appealing sign. But did you know that there are other, more efficient ways to get a similar look?

How Are Neon Signs Made?

Neon signs are made using electrified, luminous tube lights that contain neon and other gases. Although they are used worldwide, they were extremely popular in the United States from the 1920s to the 1960s.

Neon signs work because of light-emitting tubes which form colored lines with which a text can be written or a picture drawn, including various decorations, especially in advertising and commercial signage. By programming sequences of switching parts on and off, there are many possibilities for dynamic light patterns that form animated images.

Neon Signs Are So 1950s!

Over the last decade, neon tubes are increasingly being replaced with LEDs (light emitting diode). This is due to a number of factors:

• LEDs have lower power consumption than neon signs.
• Businesses that buy LEDs get utility rebates.
• Businesses that buy LEDs also get real estate credits for LEED certifications
• Local grant money often exists for businesses participating in environmentally friendly projects

LEDs also have fewer parts, which makes for fewer repairs, therefore reducing maintenance costs and hassles.

If you’ve considered a neon sign for your business in the past, it might be time to shift your thinking. Interested in learning more about LEDs? Head over to our LED page for more information.

Metro Sign and Awning can help you with your next signage project, be it a neon sign or LED. We can also help you with price comparisons or an evaluation of your existing neon sign.