LEDs Vs. Neon
Neon signs are made of continuous glass tubes that craftsmen bend into shapes. They predate light-emitting diode (LED) signs by 60 years but remain highly popular as of 2010. LEDs are comprised of multiple lights. Each type has pros and cons.
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Safety
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Since neon tubes are glass they are far more fragile than LED lights. Furthermore, it is safer to install, service and maintain LED lights, which are powered by 12 volts DC. Neon requires from 4,000 to 15,000 volts AC, making neon a higher electrical hazard.
Efficiency
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LED lights have smaller electrical transformers; therefore, they are a more efficient light source. Since they don't require the amount of voltage neon lights do, they don't run nearly as hot, so they don't use as much energy.
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Maintenance
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LED lights are small bright lights so they are far easier to maintain than neon lights. LED signs are durable and can last up to 100,000 hours. They are also easier to clean, since there are no hot tubes with which to deal.
Environmentally-Friendly
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LED lights use only 10 watts of power, which means they are safe to handle since they remain relatively cool. Unlike neon, LED lights do not leak argon and mercury. When neon signs flicker or go out, it means their gases have leaked out.
Illumination
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Neon illumination is far warmer than LED illumination, so it is very easy on the eyes especially in channel letter signs, for which LED lights are not an option. Letters in channel letter signs are an individual structure and require separate illumination.
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References
- Photo Credit neon sign image by pearlguy from Fotolia.com