SIGNS & MORE, INC. BLOG - Sign, Banner & Vehicle Graphics Facts & Information

When choosing a sign, how it is lit is as important as what type and size to use.  There are many ways to light a sign.  We will explore the ways to use the lights and the benefits as well as the detriments of each way.

LED Channel Letters Inside Airport Location

Today, the most modern and soon to be the most popular method is the use of LED (Light Emitting Diodes) lights.  These small lights use very little energy compared to Neon, LFL (Linear Fluorescent Lamps) or traditional bulbs in a goose neck lamp.  LED technology has demonstrated significantly higher efficiency, light output and color quality. This is why we are seeing their use from flashlights to auto tail lights.

Neon Channel Letters with Silver Translucent Vinyl Fronts

Neon lighting is still very prevalent in today’s sign industry and will be for quite some time.  This method is good for creating all manners of designs (particularly with all types of curves and bends).  Many channel letters have been lit with neon inside, but we are seeing more of this type installation going to the LEDs for the light source due to significant operational cost savings.

Fluorescent Light Box with Pan Face

Many box signs today are still being lit and manufactured with LFL lighting.  Although the efficiency may be less than LED, the light from the LFL is more evenly distributed due to the tubular shape of the lamp and the LFL lighting is significantly less expensive to manufacture.  Thus, the LFL will stay around much longer since it is the major source of lighting in most retail stores and warehouses and is the best way to light up a rectangular light box.

Dimensional Letters with Goose neck Lights (Historical District)

The goose neck lamp is the oldest of the lighting methods.  We still see their use when a customer prefers the retro look of the “Days Gone By” or needs to light up a routed or flat pan sign  and is desired by customer or demanded by lease restrictions/covenants/permit regulations.

Whether you use a light box with fluorescent lamps or channel letters with LED lighting, Signs & More is here to assist you to bring light your sign.