Debunking Common Myths About Outdoor Neon Signs
For decades, businesses and brands alike have been using outdoor neon signs to increase foot traffic and add flair to their storefront. From their stylish design to their flashy appeal, it’s no surprise that outdoor neon signs have become such a popular choice for businesses.
There are, however, several misconceptions surrounding neon signs that have kept some businesses from installing them. Here at Carousel Lights, we create custom outdoor neon signs that are sure to elevate your storefront. In this quick read, we’ll be debunking some of the most common myths about neon signs so you can separate fact from fiction.
Why Do Businesses Opt For Outdoor Neon Signs?
Before we debunk the misconceptions surrounding neon signs, it’s important to understand the appeal of exterior neon signs and why so many businesses continue to choose this kind of signage for storefronts. One of the main reasons why neon signs placed outside are so popular is that they help tremendously with branding. These illuminated signs are the perfect medium for displaying a company’s logo, slogan or brand name. Their unique design and eye-catching glow draw attention to customers, which helps to make their business stand out in the competitive marketplace.
Not only are neon signs great for attracting customers and increasing foot traffic, but they are also effective for promoting the services and products of a business. If you have a new product you want to highlight and improve sales for, outdoor advertising is the way to go. Additionally, neon signs can also be used to promote upcoming special events for your business. This way, you can draw attention to your latest products and events in an eye-catching, stylish way.
In such a visually saturated marketplace, finding a trendy way to advertise your business can be tricky, which is why neon signs outside have remained such a popular choice for various companies. If your storefront has bright, well-designed signage, it makes your store more approachable and increases foot traffic. What better way to make your brand stand out than with stylish neon signs?
Common Misconceptions Surrounding Outdoor Neon Signs
While neon signs outside provide a range of benefits for businesses, there are several myths surrounding these luminous signs that may steer companies away from investing in them. It’s important to make informed decisions about your business, which is why we’ve debunked some of the most common myths about outdoor neon signs so you can decide for yourself if investing in them is worth it.
Myth 1: Outdoor Neon Signs Exclusively Use High Voltage
Some business owners may steer away from installing outdoor neon signs as they believe that they can only operate with high voltage. High voltage lights require more energy to operate and may be more prone to wear and tear over time. Thankfully, this is not the case for outdoor neon signs, as they can be used in both low and high voltage applications. If you want to achieve a brighter, more vibrant glow for your business’s neon sign, you can opt for a high-voltage design.
Alternatively, you can invest in a low-voltage neon sign for a more reliable source of illumination. If you’re not sure which type of neon sign works best for your business, we recommend consulting with a professional at Carousel Lights.
Myth 2: Toxic Chemicals Are Used In Outdoor Neon Signs
While some neon signs may contain toxic chemicals, this is not the case for all neon signs. Outdoor neon signs are 100% safe to use and contain two gasses found in the air we breathe: argon and neon. These gases are not toxic to the human body unless consumed in high volumes. If you invest in high-quality, durable neon signs from a reliable signage business, such as Carousel Lights, you won’t need to worry about your neon signs containing any toxic chemicals.
If your neon sign becomes damaged or broken, however, it is critical that you let a professional handle the situation. Broken neon signs can be dangerous if handled by someone unfamiliar with the medium, which is why you should always contact a neon light specialist or electrician to remove the light.
Myth 3: Neon Lights Are Too Difficult To Install
One of the main reasons why so many people veer away from investing in outdoor neon signs is that they believe they’re too complicated to install. Contrary to popular belief, neon signs follow much of the same installation procedures as regular signage. Like any other sign, the neon sign needs to be mounted on a wall or structure that can hold its weight. Once you’ve mounted the sign, all that’s left to do is wire the sign to an electrical outlet and ensure that it’s securely fastened.
LED neon signs can be installed by a competent tradesman whilst real glass neon signs need to be installed by specialists installers.
If you’re a business owner looking to spruce up your storefront, it is advisable that you hire a professional to assist you so as to ensure a smooth installation process. A professional can install your neon sign for you to make sure it’s running in no time and is properly secured. If you’d prefer to install the sign yourself, be sure to follow the installation instructions carefully.
Myth 4: Outdoor Neon Signs Are Outdated
While neon signs may have been around for the last few decades, these luminous centrepieces have never lost their stylistic appeal. The flashy glow and unique design of neon signs not only create a bold, modern look but also add a nostalgic feel overall. Whether you want to create a stylish, unique design or opt for a more retro look, neon signs offer a one-of-a-kind appeal that is sure to make your business stand out.
Myth 5: Neon Signs Are Too Expensive
Another popular myth held by many regarding neon signs is that they’re not affordable enough to invest in. For a high-quality, durable neon sign from a reputable signage company like Carousel Lights, upfront costs may seem steep at first, but the investment is well worth your money. Unlike regular outdoor signage, modern neon signs are highly durable and strong, meaning you won’t need to worry about replacing them for several years.
So long as your sign is properly installed and is maintained well, you can trust that your neon sign will retain its flashy glow for years to come. Considering the many benefits that they can bring to your business, neon signs are sure to be a worthy investment for your company.
Myth 6: You Can’t Customise Neon Signs As Much As Other Signs
Some people believe that alternative light signage, such as LED lights, offers more variety when it comes to colour variation and creating custom designs. While LED signs are highly versatile when it comes to customisation, the same applies to outdoor neon signs. The fact of the matter is that neon signs are perfectly customisable, allowing you to pick whichever colours, font or unique designs to reflect your business’s brand.
Thanks to the advancement of modern neon lighting, neon signs can be tailored to any shape, size or colour to best suit your needs. If you’d prefer to have some aesthetic guidance when it comes to creating the design of your neon sign, you can consult with a neon signage expert to help you find a style that fits your brand.
Myth 7: Neon Signage Is Not Environmentally Friendly
While traditional neon signs may not have been the most sustainable signage of the time, the same cannot be said for modern neon signs, often referred to as LED neon signs or faux neon signs. Custom LED neon signs require little to no maintenance and consume far less energy than traditional neon lights. Additionally, LED neon signs emit minimal heat, which reduces heat emission.
LED neon signs are built to last, but once they do reach the end of their lifespan, they can be safely and sustainably recycled, making them the perfect signage choice for eco-friendly businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint. At Carousel Lights, we have two options for LED neon signs, namely, our Neon Ultra and Neon Flex options. While not the same as traditional neon signs, they give off a similar effect at a much lower energy consumption rate.
Myth 8: Outdoor Neon Signs Require High Maintenance
Like most with most outdoor signs, some level of maintenance is required to ensure that your sign doesn’t get damaged or have its lifespan shortened. That being said, neon signs do not require a high level of maintenance over alternative signage options, like LED lights. If you want to keep your neon sign running smoothly and avoid any issues along the way, maintenance is key.
So long as you regularly clean your outdoor neon sign and ensure that your electrical connections are set up correctly, you can expect to keep the fluorescent glow of your neon sign for a lengthy lifespan. This way, you won’t have to encounter any significant technical issues while operating your sign.
Myth 9: Neon Breaks Easily & Is Not Durable
While the glass tubing used to create neon signs may be fragile, the lifespan of your neon lights can be extended if designed accordingly and maintained properly. When you consult with a professional signage company, such as Carousel Lights, you can trust that we’ll construct your neon sign with the highest quality materials, designed according to your needs.
Whether you’re adding a personalised sign to your storefront or are looking to enhance an outdoor event with unique neon lighting, our neon signs are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and other environments. This way, you can install your signage for any weather condition without having to worry about it breaking down or incurring serious damage.
Get Your Own Customised Outdoor Neon Signs At Carousel Lights
Despite the many misconceptions held regarding outdoor neon signs, these lights remain one of the most unique and eye-catching forms of signage out there. Whether you’re adding some flair to an outdoor wedding or drawing more customers to your store with a flashy design, outdoor neon signs transform spaces with their unique glow.
If you’re in search of a reliable signage company to make your designs come to life, look no further than Carousel Lights. With an award-winning reputation and a huge range of clients across the board, you can trust that our signage experts have what it takes to create stunning neon signs.
To find out more about the light and signage services we offer or how to get your hands on a custom sign of your own, drop us an email at hello@carousellights.com, and we’ll get in touch.
