Neon lights are eye-catching and can make any space feel more energetic, modern, and even futuristic. Many businesses use neon signs to create a brand identity that their customers will remember. Whether you have just purchased your first neon sign or are adding another one to your business, it’s important to know how to keep it looking its best.
Also known as discharge lighting, neon signs are made from gas as a light source. In order to get the bright red or blue glow of the sign, glass tubing with mercury and nitrogen is used. While these signs don’t require much maintenance on a day-to-day basis, there are some things you should do once in a while to prevent problems from happening in the future.
Monthly Maintenance
A monthly maintenance schedule should cover all the basics, such as cleaning the glass tubes, checking for any loose parts, and making sure the sign is level and not tilted. If your sign is tilted, you may notice an increase in the amount of electricity needed to keep it running.
Check the Gas Levels The gas level inside the tubes should be between 1/8 and 1/4 full. If the gas level is too low, the sign won’t have enough fuel to run efficiently. You’ll know when the gas levels are too high because the colours will be muted.
Check for Leaks and Tubes Breached by Mercury Mercury was used in older signs to start the process of creating a charge. While mercury is a toxic substance, levels in older signs are low enough that it should not be a concern. If you notice a pool of mercury near your sign, there is probably a tube that is breached. This is a serious problem that must be repaired by a professional.
Conclusion
Neon signs are a great way to add a retro vibe to any space. However, you need to make sure they’re well-maintained to prevent any problems from happening. A weekly and monthly maintenance is enough to keep your sign working properly. If you notice something is wrong, address the problem as soon as possible.
