Bright, consistent and reliable channel letter lighting is integral to the brand image of any business. Poor lighting can quickly undermine customer trust in your services.
Lighting of illuminated channel letters can be subject to the effects of direct sunlight and ambient temperatures, both of which have the ability to alter its lifespan significantly. By taking these factors into account, your sign could extend its useful lifespan significantly.
LEDs
LEDs, or light emitting diodes, are unsung heroes of technology that are ubiquitous across many applications and devices – digital clocks, remote controls, television screens and streetlights all rely on them. According to How Stuff Works, these diodes use semiconductor materials like aluminum-gallium-arsenide that generates photons at specific wavelengths when activated by an electric current; when both PN (positive node) and N (negative node) sides are connected at different voltages the majority and minority charge carriers neutralize in depletion layer at diode junction. Photons released discharge energy in form of monochromatic light with specific color and wavelength in visible spectrum.
LEDs produce minimal heat radiation and are therefore safe to use near materials that could burn. Furthermore, their absence of UV rays means that they don’t degrade plastics or fade paints and dyes – making them an ideal solution for applications requiring both safety and longevity.
Design
LED channel letter signs are an excellent way to increase nighttime visibility. Their energy-efficiency outshines neon and fluorescent lamps while lasting twice as long; furthermore, their lower voltage of power consumption means reduced costs as well. Plus, their adaptability to any building design, size or mounting style makes them highly flexible!
Illuminated channel letters can often be found on storefronts, strip malls and other commercial buildings. Custom made to match any company color and including logo symbols or cursive writing – illuminated channel letters provide great ways of increasing business exposure in local markets.
The lighted sign is composed of an aluminum body, light diffuser, end caps and mounting brackets fastened together using an as-seamless-as-possible process with minimal to zero screws for improved aesthetics and durability. This prevents acrylic faces from vibrating or breaking while keeping out harsh weather conditions.
Installation
Channel letter signs feature backs constructed from router-cut aluminum that comes in different thicknesses depending on their letter sizes, typically being painted a standard hue; custom colors can also be accommodated if Pantone colors need to be matched exactly.
Channel letters are made out of acrylic and can be opened or closed to create the neon look. A trim cap affixed to this acrylic surface comes in standard colors or metallic options; this portion will illuminate, making an ideal place for you to display your business logo or message.
Channel letters are attached to buildings by being installed into either a raceway or backer mount, the latter of which provides access to electricity and serves as a frame around the sign. Furthermore, this structure houses both power sources as well as control devices like an astronomical time clock or photocell that helps manage illumination levels.
Maintenance
Many illuminated channel letters require regular maintenance in order to remain in peak working condition, including cleaning, repairing or replacing parts and bulbs in order to maintain peak functionality. Depending on its location, illuminated channel letters could also be exposed to salt air which accelerates deterioration as well as high temperatures which cause them to crack or fade over time.
Illuminated channel letters may become damaged from exposure to sunlight, leading to color fading that requires repainting or replacing of the sign.
Maintaining your customer’s sign requires gentle cleaning solutions that won’t damage its acrylic front surface, in order to preserve their brand for longer and make their signage appear brighter. At Accendo we have developed a patented LED retrofit solution and LetterTrim which are more cost effective and long-term than traditional trim caps – both offering greater brand longevity!
