Neon Guides
Neon Sign FAQs
18+
Common Questions Answered
10yr
Typical Neon Tube Lifespan
12m
Guarantee on All Signs
60+
Years Combined Experience
All Questions
Installation
Cost
Delivery
Product
Safety
Will my neon sign require any specialist installation?
Installation
The majority of neon signs that we supply are for internal use, and come mounted onto a backing (see Backing Options), complete with a normal mains plug which can be plugged into an accessible plug socket. The sign simply needs to be fixed onto the wall, or suspended from chain that we will supply. Neon signs for permanent external use, and some large internal neon signs, will require specialist installation.
What if I want to fix my neon sign directly onto the wall or onto my own backing?
Installation
If you are looking for us to supply individual neon sections that are not fitted onto a backing so that they can be fixed directly onto a wall, or your own backing, then we would always advise that this is done by a neon sign installer, or an electrician with neon experience. This should always be done in accordance with IET Wiring Regulations. Please ask for further details.
Can I operate my neon light from a light switch?
Installation
It is possible to operate neon from a light switch in some situations, but there are regulations regarding this. Please ask for further information, or consult your electrician.
Do Neon Creations offer an installation service if required?
Installation
Whilst we don't currently have our own installation team, we do have a network of neon sign installers in certain areas of the UK. Please contact us for further details.
Will it cost me a lot of money to run my neon sign?
Cost
Most of the neon signs that we manufacture are less than 100 Watts of illumination, and many are even less than 60 Watts — which is the typical wattage of a domestic light bulb. So the running costs are very similar to leaving a light on.
Do you deliver outside the UK?
Delivery
As we are only able to offer a delivery service which is guaranteed against breakages within mainland UK, we don't tend to supply outside of the UK. However, if a customer is prepared to take the risk of the neon sign being damaged in transit, or have their own shipping company with whom they are able to arrange transportation, then we can work alongside this.
What is your lead time?
Delivery
Our lead time is typically 2–3 weeks from order confirmation, but this can change on a daily basis depending on how many orders we receive. Please enquire with us and we can give you an indication of up to date lead times. We are sometimes able to turn work around at 1 week's notice.
How long can I expect my neon sign to last?
Product
The typical lifespan of the neon tubes should be at least 10 years. During this time the transformer which powers the neon may need to be replaced, but this is something that is quite straightforward to do.
What guarantee do you offer on your neon signs?
Product
We offer a 12 month guarantee on materials and workmanship on all of our neon signs. However, this does not extend to any damage that may occur as a result of incorrect installation, or to breakages that occur after delivery. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions and our Instructions and Guarantee for further details.
Will my neon sign get hot?
Safety
If a neon sign has been manufactured correctly, and supplied with the correct size of transformer for the amount of neon tubes, then the tubes should not get hot. It may get slightly warm to the touch but would not burn you. Absolutely not a concern when properly made.
Neon signs are made from glass — is this not dangerous?
Safety
It is correct that the neon tubes are glass, and are therefore fragile in nature. However, if they are handled correctly and carefully during transportation and installation, then there is no reason why the glass will get broken. We encounter glass products throughout our daily lives without any fear. We do however advise that in public areas where the sign could easily be knocked into, that the neon is supplied with a clear cover in front of it.
Are neon signs safe with regards to electrocution?
Safety
Whilst the neon signs that we supply are typically run from an 8,000 volt electronic convertor, the convertors are self-calibrating and only use as much voltage as is necessary to power the sign. The convertors and transformers that we supply are fitted with open circuit and earth leakage protection, meaning that if the neon tube gets broken, the power is automatically cut off — hence no risk of electrocution.
Do neon signs last longer than LED signs, and which is brighter?
Product
LED signs are probably brighter than neon signs to begin with, but in our experience, LED signs fade over time whereas neon stays bright for years. Real glass neon is also more elegant looking than its LED alternatives, as real neon offers 360 degree light around the tube.
Will my neon sign be made from a continuous length of glass tube?
Product
This depends on how many letters the neon sign has, and what the height of the letters are. Usually, a neon sign would be made up from more than one section of glass. These sections are then joined together by small pieces of cable to make an electric circuit, but this doesn't detract from the overall look of the sign. Please refer to our gallery for examples.
What gases are used to make neon signs?
Product
Neon tubes are filled with either neon gas, argon gas, or a combination of both. Both of these gases are found in the air that we breathe. They are perfectly safe, even if the tube gets broken. The different gases and tube coatings are what produce the different colours you see.
Can neon signs be used outdoors?
Installation
Yes, neon signs can be made suitable for external use, but they do need to be specifically manufactured for external use with appropriate weatherproofing. Please let us know if your sign will be used outdoors when placing your order, as this affects how we make and seal the sign.
How much does a custom neon sign cost?
Cost
Our prices are entirely bespoke and depend on the size, colour, complexity of the design, and the type of backing chosen. We don't have a standard price list — please use our quote builder or contact us directly for an accurate quote. We will always come back to you promptly.
Are the gases in neon signs dangerous?
Safety
Neon gas, or any noble gas for that matter, is generally unreactive within the Earth's natural atmospheric conditions. Both neon and argon gas are found in the air we breathe every day. They can only become reactive under extreme conditions — such as those within the glass tube — so they present no risk in normal use.
Still Have A Question?
Our friendly team is always happy to help. Call us on 01204 655 866 or send us a message and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.