Outdoor Sign LightingFor many years, neon has been the preferred method of outdoor sign lighting. Neon is still a viable resource, however, new advances in technology have created other affordable and energy efficient alternatives. Although there are additional ways of illuminating building markers that are not internally lighted, we will focus on marquees, along with other outdoor sign lighting fixtures. Neon is still one of the more popular avenues, but LED or light emitting diodes and fiber optics are gaining ground in this industry. All three of these options offer benefits, as well as draw backs, so this article is intended to provide the valuable information you need in order to select the proper device.The benefits of neon, LED, and fiber optics are varied. Each of these devices is an effective outdoor sign lighting fixture under the right circumstances. Neon has been around for ages. It offers brilliant illumination that can be seen, regardless of the amount of ambient light projected onto it. Neon is consider an art form, rather than just a fixture for outdoor sign lighting. It can be molded into a multitude of shapes and is less expensive that fiber optics. LED lights offer the same brightness as neon, when using the red spectrum, but are cheaper to purchase and operate. In addition, they use lower voltage than traditional neon, so LED can be used in a multitude of arenas. LED performs much better in cold temperatures, making it suitable to harsh winter climates. This form of illumination typically comes with a much longer warranty, because it is more durable than other outdoor sign lighting fixtures. Fiber optics are not as bright as neon or LED, especially when they are exposed to ambient light. Therefore, they are not as efficient for outdoor sign lighting, however they are excellent for indoor use. New technology has combined LED with fiber optics to create a brighter alternative, which may become a more viable solution. They can be easily formed into shapes or bent to follow curves. Fiber optics also allow color changes to be made with very little effort. Their major advantage is the ability to be placed in swimming pools and other wet areas, because fiber optics does not require an electrical source at the light source. They are powered away from the actual fixture. Of course, there are some disadvantages to each of these outdoor sign lighting fixtures, and it is important to understand them, so you can select the best product to fit your specific need. For instance, neon is extremely fragile and costly to operate. The initial price of purchasing the product for outdoor sign lighting is slightly more than LED, however the fees to operate it can be extremely expensive. It is also a high voltage product, so exposure to the elements must be done with care, if at all. LED lights in blue, white, and green are not as bright as neon, so you will want to consider how noticeable you need your outdoor sign lighting to be. Fiber optics are currently not a suitable option for this type of illumination, unless there is no ambient light reflected on them. Although, the disadvantages for each of these options are limited, they can greatly affect their ability to perform appropriately. When determining which option you should use for your outdoor sign lighting requirements, it is important to examine all of the facts. Neon, LED, and fiber optics all have their proper place in the world. Each one offers individual benefits, but incorporating the wrong product can be detrimental to your overall plan. The most important thing is to research all of the alternatives prior to making a purchase. Your local outdoor sign lighting dealer can answer many of the questions you might have. They can also ensure that you purchase the right outdoor sign lighting for your home or business. |
