Neon signs have become an iconic fixture in cities around the world. Their vibrant glow makes them stand out against the night skyline. But neon tubes actually come in a variety of colors beyond the typical neon red or blue. Here’s an overview of the different colored neon signs you may encounter.
Common neon sign colors
The most common neon sign colors are:
- Red – This bright, fiery hue is the color most associated with neon. It’s eye-catching and evokes energy.
- Blue – Cool blue neon emits a futuristic vibe. This shade works well for technology or modern brands.
- Green – Neon green has an electric, lime-like color. It stands out like traffic lights.
- Yellow – Cheery yellow neon signs evoke sunshine. This bright tone conveys optimism.
- Pink – Pretty in pink, this gentle neon hue can appeal to feminine or cute brands.
- Purple – Mystical purples and violets make neon signs appear more exotic.
- Orange – Vibrant orange neon has a bold, fiery personality perfect for dynamic brands.
These colors cover the basic neon sign options. But there are even more shades available to truly customize a sign.
More neon color choices
Beyond the standard neon colors, some other options include:
- White – White neon has a clean, pure look, great for minimalist designs.
- Cream – A warm, soft white that provides gentle illumination.
- Amber – Radiant amber neon has a golden yellow hue.
- Chartreuse – Vivid chartreuse neon pops like limes.
- Teal – Cool teal neon brings to mind tropical oceans.
- Ruby – A rich, jewel-toned red that’s bolder than basic red.
- Gold – Shimmering metallic gold evokes luxury and sophistication.
- Silver – Sleek silver neon lends an elegant, refined effect.
The choices expand even further when you consider mixing neon colors for a custom, signature look.
Neon color combinations
Using two or more neon colors together can create unique sign designs. Here are some examples of popular neon color combos:
- Red and blue – This classic pairing evokes Americana or diner-style aesthetics.
- Pink and teal – The warm and cool contrast between these colors is visually striking.
- Yellow and purple – These complementary hues play off each other in an energetic, youthful way.
- Green and orange – Vibrant neon green and orange make a bold statement together.
- White and blue – Crisp white against neon blue has a nautical, beachy vibe.
- Red, yellow and orange – Using all warm neon tones together conveys passion and excitement.
Neon color combos are only limited by your imagination. Using two or three neon shades allows for more customization and personality in a sign design.
Factors impacting neon color
Beyond just choosing colors, there are a few other factors that impact the look of a neon sign:
- Tube size – Smaller neon tubes appear brighter, while larger tubes emit a softer glow.
- Tube color coating – Colored phosphor coatings on the inside of tubes produce truer versions of some neon hues.
- Power level – Higher voltage power supplies increase neon brightness.
- Tube bending – The shape of bent tubes impacts how light radiates through them.
- Surrounding materials – neon signs enclosed in plastics or acrylics diffuse and mute the colors.
- Ambient lighting – Surrounding lights can drown out or accentuate neon glow.
Working with an experienced neon sign fabricator helps ensure you get the exact color effects and vibrancy you want. They can guide tube sizing, glass finishes, power levels and sign materials to achieve your ideal neon color scheme.
Neon vs. LED colors
LED lighting offers an energy-efficient alternative to traditional neon signs. But LEDs have some differences when it comes to achieving neon-like colors:
- LEDs emit light directly, while neon produces a diffuse glow through charged gas.
- LEDs have a wider color range, while neon’s color options are more limited.
- LEDs allow for color changing and programmable effects, unlike neon.
- Neon tends to have a smoother, more consistent hue, while LEDs can sometimes have a “pixelated” look.
- Neon offers that classic, vintage appeal, but LEDs are more modern and sleek.
The chart below compares the differences between neon and LED technology when it comes to producing different colored lights:
| Color | Neon Properties | LED Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Red | Rich, vibrant, uniform hue | Can seem slightly orange tinted |
| Blue | Cool, smooth blue tone | Crisper, more vivid blue possible |
| Green | Soft lime green glow | Wider range of greens achievable |
| Yellow | Warm golden yellow | Can seem slightly greenish |
| Purple | Bold vibrant purple | Pastel purples also possible |
Overall, both technologies have their merits when creating brightly colored signs. Neon offers a classic, uniform look, while LED opens up more color versatility. It comes down to the aesthetics and functions needed for the sign.
Safety considerations
While neon signs lend beautiful lighting effects, they require high voltage electricity to operate. Improper handling of neon sign installation or maintenance can pose safety risks like electric shock. Here are some key safety tips for neon signs:
- Always turn off power at the circuit breaker prior to servicing signs
- Wear insulated gloves and footwear when handling exposed wires
- Use fiberglass ladders, not metal, when working near electrical signs
- Keep neon signs away from flammable materials or liquids
- Don’t touch neon signs with wet hands to avoid shock
- Have signs periodically serviced by qualified professionals
- Ensure neon power supplies are properly grounded
- Post warning signs that high voltage is in use
Following basic electrical safety principles keeps both installers and the public safe around neon lighting. Proper installation and maintenance of neon is essential.
Environmental considerations
Beyond safety, neon production and operation has some environmental impacts to note as well:
- Neon relies on inert gases like argon and neon, which must be carefully contained
- Glass tubing fabrication generates waste from defective or broken tubes
- Phosphor coatings inside neon tubing contain heavy metals like nickel
- Neon transformer oils used in power supplies can be toxic if leaked
- High energy consumption compared to efficient LED lighting
- Broken neon tubes are considered hazardous waste when discarded
Proper neon sign recycling and disposal is important to limit environmental contamination. LED sign alternatives continue to grow in popularity due to their energy efficiency and less toxic materials.
Cost considerations
Neon signs also come with financial considerations during initial purchase and over their lifetime:
- High upfront fabrication costs, with small signs starting around $500
- Design complexity and custom colors increase price
- Installation and wiring expenses add up, around $100 per hour
- Ongoing neon gas and power consumption generates costs
- Periodic maintenance and repairs are needed over time
- Estimated 15,000 hour neon tube lifespan until replacement needed
- Old neon signs may require full rewiring and refurbishing
The initial investment is high for custom neon signs, but ongoing maintenance costs are relatively low. Neon enjoys longevity when properly serviced and refilled. Sign owners must budget adequately for both creation and maintenance.
Conclusion
Neon signs bring a sense of vibrancy and nostalgia to the urban landscape with their characteristic glow. While commonly associated with reds and blues, experienced neon craftsmen can produce a rainbow of color options through specialized tubing, coatings and gases. Neon color combinations provide abundant design flexibility. And while LEDs offer greater energy efficiency, neon still holds unique appeal and quality that makes it a valued signage medium.
