LED illumination for channel letter signs is an attractive choice that provides modern high-tech appeal while remaining energy efficient. However, several key considerations must be kept in mind before selecting this form of signage.
LED modules use a much safer operating voltage compared to neon, thereby decreasing fire risks.
Cost
Channel letter lighting is an effective way to increase brand recognition and draw in customers, but its cost depends on its size and style – the larger and more intricate the letters, the higher their maintenance and installation fees will be.
As well as paying for LED modules, additional components will need to be purchased, including channel bodies, light diffusers and end caps made of aluminum and acrylic materials that provide ample visibility while being durable enough to withstand adverse weather conditions and draw customers in.
LED channel letters require less maintenance than neon signs, using fewer bulbs for energy savings that is immediately evident on power bills. Furthermore, these lights have long lifespans and require fewer parts than neon; all this contributes to lower overall costs associated with maintenance for your business.
Durability
Illuminated channel letter signage can look stunning and attract attention, but how long it lasts depends on several factors. For example, it is important to consider where the sign will be located. Signs that face the ocean, for example, may be impacted by salt air, which can accelerate deterioration. Another factor is how much sun the sign will receive. Signs that are exposed to cold temperatures may also cause fading.
LED lighting is much more durable than neon tubes, which are often damaged by sudden jolts and other environmental elements. Additionally, LEDs are more focused and require fewer parts to light up the sign. This reduces the number of potential failure points and saves you money on energy bills. LEDs are also safer than neon tubes, which contain mercury and require special treatment and disposal.
Design
There is an assortment of illuminated and non-illuminated channel letter signage options, ranging from neon and LED flexible tube lights, programmable options such as neon signs or LED flexible tube lights and various sizes from 3 inches up to 25 inches available to meet your branding needs. They may even come equipped with special dynamic features designed specifically to meet those of your business.
Your sign’s design will determine its brightness and lighting orientation; LED is currently the most cost-effective solution, using less power than traditional neon tubes and saving significant money over time.
LED modules also use optics to refocus the beam angle of each LED and redirect it laterally, making them an excellent option for mounting on substrates that do not distribute light evenly. Plus, their illumination is more focused, meaning fewer modules need be used than before – Citylight offers LED channel letters to businesses in Toronto!
Installation
Channel letter signage draws customers’ attention to your business and helps draw in potential clients. Illuminated channel letters are an affordable solution for any building or retail location; their illumination or non-illumination can be customized based on your lease agreement and business needs, or used as an effective promotional vehicle for special offers and events.
Nearly all internally illuminated channel letters now utilize LED lighting, leading to significant energy cost savings over neon bulbs and using far fewer bulbs compared with traditional neon tubes for maintenance costs.
GE’s optic-based LED modules such as OptiLens significantly improve light scattering performance for increased brightness. Furthermore, these moisture and corrosion-resistant modules allow a five-inch depth capital ‘T’ sign to be lit using only seven to eight Tetra modules compared with 13-15 neon string modules – leading to lower monthly maintenance costs and extended time between service calls.
