Home >> Collecting >> Other Collecting

How to Fix Neon Signs

Neon signs are preferred for display lighting because of their luminosity and the many colors available. Bent glass tubes are used to create the design. The glass tubes are filled with inert gases like neon. Electricity passing through the tubes at very high voltage generates the glow. Properly made, neon signs can last for decades without needing repair. It is often cheaper to replace worn-out or broken parts of a neon sign than to get it repaired or replaced. Older signs may be refilled to restore the their original brightness.

Things You'll Need

Sharp knife or needle-nose pliers
Neon tubing
Transformer

Instructions

- 1
  Identify sections of the neon sign which do not light up properly. Keep the sign in a darkened room and switch it on. Mark any sections that are not brightly lighted.
- 2
  Shake the neon tubes very gently at short intervals. Determine if any parts are broken. If so, replace them with new neon tubing.
- 3
  Locate the connection point for the lead wires that run from the transformer to the neon tubes. To do this, push the insulation tubing away to expose the glass tube. You may need to apply a little heat if the tubing is stuck. If it does not slide after heating, use a sharp knife to slit the tube, then slide it away.
- 4
  Remove the transformer. Disconnect the lead wires. Remove the screws from the sides of the transformer.
- 5
  Test the transformer. Connect it to an undamaged section of tubing and check if it lights up. If it does not, the transformer is damaged and needs to be replaced.
- 6
  Get a fresh refill of neon gas for the neon tubing. A neon-repair shop can cut, refill and reseal the neon tube. This will brighten up the sign.

Other Collecting