Light Up Your Business: A Comprehensive Guide to Metering Your Neon Signs for Maximum Impact and Efficiency

When it comes to advertising, few things attract attention quite like a well-designed neon sign. However, as with any form of lighting, it’s important to meter your neon signs effectively in order to get the maximum impact and efficiency.

Here are some tips to help you light up your business with neon signs.

1. Determine Your Sign’s Power Consumption

Before you start planning your lighting scheme, it’s important to know how much power your neon sign will use. This will help you avoid overloading your electrical system and can also give you an idea of how much it will cost to operate the sign.

To determine power consumption, you’ll need to know the average wattage of your neon tubes. This information is often included on the sign’s manufacturer’s label or can be obtained by contacting the manufacturer directly.

2. Choose the Right Power Supply

Once you know how much power your neon sign will consume, you can choose the right power supply. Most neon signs run on high voltage, which requires an electrical transformer to step up the voltage from the standard 110 volts to 3,000 or more volts.

Choose a power supply that has the capacity to handle your sign’s power consumption and meets electrical safety standards.

3. Plan Your Lighting Scheme

When planning your lighting scheme, consider the location of your sign and the surroundings. Aim to create a balanced, eye-catching display that will draw attention to your business.

Consider using a variety of neon tube colors and sizes to create depth and interest. You can also use directional lighting to highlight specific areas of your sign or create a dynamic, animated effect.

4. Use a Dimmer Switch

Using a dimmer switch can help you control the brightness of your neon sign and save energy at the same time. Dimming your neons by just 10% can reduce energy consumption by up to 30%.

5. Schedule Your Neon Sign’s Operation

Finally, consider scheduling your neon sign’s operation. This can help you save money on energy bills and also reduce wear and tear on the sign’s transformer.

Use a timer or smart lighting system to automatically turn off your sign during non-business hours or when there’s a low foot traffic. This will keep your sign in great working condition for years to come.

In conclusion, metering your neon signs for maximum impact and efficiency involves careful planning and attention to detail. With the right power supply, lighting scheme, dimmer switch, and energy-saving schedule, you can create an eye-catching display that will draw attention to your business and save you money.