Are neon signs/items all the same

[Bsheffer]

I like the look of neon in a garage and might look for a clock or two after I finish my garage. I am not a collector but want something more for accent lighting at night. I see several companies who provide clocks and signs that appear to be new construction. Presumably, I assume anything neon will be operated 24x7. Given how much junk is out there today, how do the newer neon products compare to the old in terms of longevity. I just don't know anything about neon lightings in terms of ballasts or any of the inner workings and I can just see where companies might be producing new cheap stuff that will burn out in a short period of time.

 

[jdieter]

I've got a ton of neon and the weak point is the transformer. The most reliable for me has been the older inefficient wound transformers, not the newer electronic style. Regarding the tube it either works or not, there is no failure mode.

 

[Pate]

I've bought a bunch from neonstyles on eBay. Very happy so far.

http://www.ebay.com/usr/neonstyles?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2754

 

[Rorin67]

I've got a ton of neon and the weak point is the transformer. The most reliable for me has been the older inefficient wound transformers, not the newer electronic style. Regarding the tube it either works or not, there is no failure mode.

I ran a small (24"x24") neon sign 24/7 for about 3 years before the transformer (ballast) went bad. It did indeed throw off some great accent lighting, especially when all of the other lights were off. I called a local neon shop and the guy said most transformers nowadays are good for about 3 years of 24/7 service, which is what I got out of mine. The new transformer cost $75, which was better than replacing the entire $350 neon light.

Bottom line - just do it and don't look back. When the transformer goes bad in 3 years, replacing it is super easy.

Good luck!

 

[coljar]

I've bought a bunch from neonstyles on eBay. Very happy so far.

The price seems pretty reasonable. I looked through all of what the guy has for sale and I might have to get the Pure Oil neon. You have enough of them to know the quality must be pretty good.

 

[simpler=better]

Buy local, and head across the street for J&P's for great italian food:

http://www.neonetics.com/