Collectible Neon Sign Light Repair

Neon repair is entirely possible using a local sign shop, or neon repair man. Some work that is purely electrical may be accomplished by an electrician. Neon bulbs can sometimes be mended, or remade, and are able to be refilled with gas if necessary. There are even some who are technically minded enough to troubleshoot and take on minor repairs themselves. If you are not comfortable working with dangerous voltages you should of coarse not attempt any work on a faulty or damaged neon sign, but if it is within your comfort zone there are resources and parts available online.

Be cautious making DIY repairs:

Neon sign transformers will typically have output voltages of around 4,000 – 12,000 volts which can be enough to kill or at least do some serious damage to a full size adult. Even a small bar sign is capable of knocking a person to the ground so much care is necessary before troubleshooting or attempting repairs.

The first thing to decipher when trouble arises is whether a tube or a transformer is causing the problem. With the unit unplugged, carefully move the tubes every couple of inches to check for breaks. Make sure to be very gentle as the tubes are very fragile. If any breaks are found it can be replaced with parts purchased online at stores like PrairieGrit.com. Its becoming harder and harder to find store fronts that carry these obsolete parts.

Troubleshooting the transformer:

You can do a basic check of the transformer by disconnecting the transformer lead wires from the tubes and connecting to a known good tube. If you get no arching, try pushing one lead closer with the stick. If you have a tiny spark that barely will arc over the gap you may have a bad transformer. If you get no arc, you may have a suspect switch or a bad cord. The unit should immediately be unplugged and checked.

Troubleshooting the switch:

To check the switch you can remove the cover and unwire the two wires going to the switch. If you now retry the arc test and have a good arc that means the switch needs replaced.

You can check the cord for continuity with a test light.

New transformers can be purchased from sign companies or online resources.

Replacing a tube:

In order to replace tubes you will need to discover the place the tube connects to the lead wires or the next tube in series. First disconnect from power and check that the insulation is loose and can be maneuvered. If not, it will need cut using a very sharp knife.

Be careful not to break the tiny wires as you untwist them in order to disconnect on both ends.

A new replacement tube can be wired in place the same way the old tube came off. The insulation can then be replaced and the repair will be complete. If you need a tube bent in a custom manor it is best to consult with a professional. You should never apply heat or try to bend a tube that is pumped down with compressed neon.

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