Neon signs have been quite popular among business people and residents to give the place an eye-catching glow. If you are planning to buy a neon kitchen sign to complement your house decoration or a neon sign for your shop to add vivacity to sign and print, knowing the ways of installing neon signs and their maintenance is important. In this article, you will find a step-by-step guide to the do’s and don’ts of employing neon signs and ensure that you are maximizing the effectiveness of this incredible tool.
Why are Neon Signs so Popular
However, neon signs are not only decorative, but they also have several functions. Neon signs are not only beautiful but serve several functions. The retail stores are useful in capturing people’s attention and making customers come to your store. For houses, neon kitchen signs offer a personality to a house and make it welcoming and vibrant.
Another important reason why they are greatly embraced is the challenges that are associated with them. Neon signs lend themselves to fit into any setting, whether a modern restaurant or a home kitchen, since they can be produced in any color of the rainbow and made to fit different shapes. Also, they are durable and long-lasting; hence, they are environmentally friendly when it comes to lighting since they do not consume much power.
Selecting the right Location of your Neon Sign
When choosing the location for neon signs, there are several points you need to follow before you start with the installation process. This position determines its exposure and durability, whether mounted along a shop window or at the center of a kitchen island.
Neon kitchen signs must be installed in an easily visible area. However, the area should not be too dry or moist because these are very destructive elements to neon kitchen signs. If you are using the sign for sign and print shop, then you will want the neon sign to be put in a window or at the door where you can see it from a distance, and you are likely to invite the customers in.
Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Neon Signs
Neon sign installation might not sound easy initially, but it is a process that can be easily worked through. Below are the guidelines to follow to have the sign mounted and ready to shine:
Gather Your Tools
They include a drill, some screws, a level, and the right type of mounting hardware. Commonly, each neon sign comes with an installation kit containing everything needed for the process, but it is still better to make sure.
Choose the Right Power Source
These signs usually have to be connected to a transformer to transform regular electricity to the type they use. Make sure to place your sign close to where an electricity supply is available. In case of a need, use the services of an electrician to either fix an outlet close to the piano or to check on the power connection for compliance with safety regulations.
Mark the Mounting Points
Position the neon sign against the wall and check whether it is horizontal or vertical, depending on where you want it placed. Identify the locations where you shall be screwing / boring. Count on it; the places you attach the mounting points correspond to the studs inside the wall securing the sign.
Drill Holes and Insert Screws
Once you have the points mentioned above marked, drill holes that screws should join to hold the sign; make sure you leave enough room to hang it up so it does not stretch the letters too tight that it hinders it from hanging and may break in the process.
Attach the Neon Sign
It is required to hang the sign using caution such that it fits on the screws. Since neon tubing is delicate, be courteous. Make sure that it is well-fixed and has an equal balance.
Plug in the Sign
Lastly, the sign must be inserted into the outlet and turned on. Your new neon kitchen sign or sign and print neon is now ready to cast wonderful light in rooms.
Maintaining Your Neon Sign
While keeping a neon sign is not complicated, following these guidelines will enable the sign to be in the best form for many years after installation.
Regular Cleaning
The dust is attracted to neon signs, which reduces the brightness of the signs. To clean the exterior of the tubing, simply dampen a soft cloth with some water and gently wipe down the surface. Do not use water or chemicals when cleaning the area, as these would harm the sign. If the sign is installed in the kitchen, for example, it may get covered by grease, thus requiring it to be cleaned more often to give it that gleaming look.
Inspect the Transformer and Power Supply
Once every several months, ensure the transformer and the power cords have no signs of wear or loose wires. If there is any problem, do not use the sign any further; seek the service of a signal technician. If this is not done, the transformer tends to emit little light or continuously blink, thereby causing a lot of harm to the neon tubes.
Monitor Tube Functionality
If one section appears to be less bright or out completely, the problem may be one or more burned-out tubes or a problem with the power supply. Typically, they might last from 8 to 15 years, depending on the temperatures and the tubes’ use. If you notice the tubes have faded or are cracked in any way, it is time to replace them.
Avoid Overheating
The good thing about neon signs is that they do not consume much energy; however, they tend to be very hot when kept on for a long time, say in the kitchen. Another technique that can be adopted is to turn off your neon kitchen sign at night or whenever the sign is not in use.
When to Call a Professional
While simple problems can be solved by following standard maintenance conditions, some are not a joke. If the neon sign you own develops problems such as malfunction or electrical problems or the tubes get damaged, do not try to do the repairs yourself. Neon tubing is made from glass and has such inner gases as argon and neon. Therefore, it is best to be handled with a lot of caution. If there is some damage, a licensed neon sign technician can only do the repair or replacement.
Neon Signs Are Worth the Investment
In both residential and commercial spaces, neon signs are great – from their bright and attractive look to their longevity. Whether you placed a neon kitchen sign above your table or launched a sign and print shop, adherence to the recommended installation and maintenance guidelines will help your neon sign stay bright for years.
