How Long Do Neon Signs Last?

On paper, neon signs can last anywhere from 8 to 15 years with regular use, sometimes even longer. Some signs in the U.S. have reportedly run for 70+ years when built with top-quality materials and installed correctly. My own custom piece hasn’t been around that long, obviously, but I did notice that build quality plays a big role in how durable it feels.

That said, longevity isn’t guaranteed. Exposure to dust, humidity, and rough handling can shorten a sign’s life. For example, mine picked up a faint flicker after just a few months because of a loose connection in the transformer. A quick repair fixed it, but it was a reminder that neon isn’t invincible.

Do Neon Signs Ever Burn Out?

The short answer: yes, but not in the same way light bulbs do. Neon signs don’t have a filament that burns out; instead, issues usually come from:

• Gas leakage (tiny cracks in the glass can release neon or argon)

• Transformer failure (often the first part to go)

• Wiring problems (corrosion or wear over time)

In my experience, the glass tubes themselves are surprisingly sturdy as long as you don’t drop or hit them. It’s usually the transformer or connections that give you trouble first.

Can You Leave a Neon Sign On All the Time?

This was one of my biggest questions when I first got my sign. The truth is, yes, neon signs can run 24/7 without putting major strain on the tubes. The gas inside doesn’t “wear out” quickly, and the electrodes are designed for continuous operation.

But here’s the catch — running your sign constantly will increase electricity use and heat output, and it does mean the transformer is working nonstop. Mine started to hum a bit louder after leaving it on for a week straight, so I started switching it off at night.

Leaving it on all the time is fine technically, but if you want to maximize lifespan (and cut down on your power bill), it’s smarter to give it breaks.

Do Neon Signs Run Out of Gas?

Another common concern: does the neon inside eventually run out? Not under normal use. The gas is sealed in the glass tubes, and as long as the tubes aren’t cracked, the sign should keep glowing.

However, over many years, tiny leaks or electrode wear can cause the glow to fade. My sign hasn’t reached that stage yet, but I’ve seen older bar signs where the color looked dull compared to newer ones. That fading is often a sign of gas loss or electrode erosion.

The good news is neon signs are repairable. Skilled technicians can refill or reseal tubes, replace transformers, or fix wiring. The downside is you’ll need a specialist, and repairs aren’t cheap.

Maintenance: What Really Matters

Based on my own use, here are a few practical maintenance tips:

• Dust it regularly – Dust buildup dulls the glow and can cause heat spots.

• Check the wiring – A flicker is often just a loose connection.

• Avoid extreme weather – If your sign is outdoors, protect it from heavy rain or direct sunlight.

• Don’t DIY electrical fixes – Neon works at high voltage, so repairs should be left to pros.

I’ve found that a gentle wipe with a microfiber cloth once a month keeps mine looking sharp. When I ignored it, the dust buildup was really obvious.

Pros and Cons After Testing

Pros:

• Long potential lifespan (much longer than most LED strips)

• Unique glow and aesthetic you can’t fully replicate with LED

• Safe to touch if installed correctly (the tubes don’t burn skin)

• Repairable instead of disposable

Cons:

• Transformers can fail earlier than expected

• Repairs are specialized and can be expensive

• Constant hum from the transformer may bother some people

• Higher energy use compared to LED signs

Final Thoughts

From my personal experience, neon signs are both durable and fragile — durable in the sense that the glass and gas can last for decades, but fragile because one bad transformer or crack can cut their life short.

If you’re okay with occasional maintenance and don’t mind the energy use, a neon sign can be a long-lasting piece of art. But if you want something maintenance-free, LED might be more practical.

👉Check out the ultimate guide to neon signs here

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