Introduction

Neon signs are a fantastic way to add a pop of colour and personality to any space. Whether you’ve just purchased a new neon sign for your business, home, or event, or you’re looking to relocate an existing one, knowing how to properly hang it is crucial.

Proper installation ensures not only that your sign looks great but also that it’s safely and securely mounted. This guide will walk you through the steps to hang LED neon signs, covering the tools you’ll need, safety precautions, and best practices for a secure installation.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the necessary tools and materials. The specific tools you need will depend on whether you’re hanging a traditional neon sign or an LED neon sign.

• Screws and ceiling / wall anchors

• Measuring tape

• Pencil

• Level

• Drill with appropriate drill bits

• Screwdriver

• Mounting clips or brackets (if required)

Safety Precautions

Hanging a neon sign involves handling electrical components and, in the case of traditional neon signs, fragile glass tubes. Follow these safety precautions to avoid accidents:

Turn Off the Power: Before handling the sign, ensure that it is unplugged and the power is turned off. This prevents any electrical accidents while you’re installing the sign.

Wear Protective Gear: For traditional neon signs, wear protective gloves to prevent cuts from the glass tubes. Safety glasses are also recommended to protect your eyes.

Check the Weight: Ensure that the wall or surface where you plan to hang the sign can support its weight. For heavier signs, use heavy-duty hooks, brackets, or anchors to secure them.

Avoid Moisture: If you’re hanging the sign in a location that may be exposed to moisture, such as an outdoor space or a bathroom, ensure that the sign is rated for such environments and that all electrical components are properly insulated.

Step-by-Step Guide to Hanging a Neon Sign

Choose the Location

Step 1: Choose the Ideal Location

Select the best spot to hang your neon sign by considering visibility, height, and the background where the sign will be displayed. Make sure the location allows for easy access to a power source, especially if the sign will be permanently plugged in. If needed, position the sign near hidden power outlets or manage cabling discreetly.

Step 2: Plan Power Access

Ensure power adaptors and LED controllers are kept out of sight to maintain a clean appearance. Ideal spots for hiding these components include ceiling cavities, secure boxes, or other areas free from foot traffic, ensuring safety and a neat look.

Step 3: Position for Maximum Impact

For optimal visibility, position the sign at eye level or slightly above. This makes the neon sign easily viewable while also enhancing its visual impact in the space.

Measure and Mark

Step 4: Measure the Installation Location

Use a measuring tape to determine the precise spot where you want to hang your neon sign. Ensure the chosen position aligns with your desired height and visibility. For larger signs, using a level at this stage will help ensure a straight, professional-looking installation.

Step 5: Mark the Mounting Points

Place the mounting bracket on the measured location and use it as a stencil. With a pencil, mark the spots where the screws or mounting hardware will go. Double-check the markings for alignment and accuracy before proceeding.

Drill Holes for Mounting

Step 6: Prepare for Heavy Signs or Tough Surfaces

If your neon sign is heavy or if you’re mounting it on a tough material like brick or concrete, you'll need to drill holes for wall anchors. These provide extra support, ensuring the sign stays securely in place.

Step 7: Drill the Holes

Using a drill, create holes at the points you marked in Step 5. For traditional neon signs, ensure the holes align with the mounting brackets or hooks. For LED neon signs, drill holes for mounting clips or brackets if adhesive strips aren’t being used. Double-check the alignment before drilling to ensure the sign will hang straight.

Install Anchors or Hooks

Step 8: Insert Wall or Ceiling Anchors

If necessary, insert wall or ceiling anchors into the drilled holes. This step is crucial for heavier signs or when mounting on surfaces like drywall, brick, or concrete, as the anchors provide additional support and prevent the hardware from loosening over time.

Step 9: Attach the Mounting Hardware

Screw the hooks, brackets, or mounting hardware into the anchors or directly into the wall. Ensure everything is securely fastened to support the weight of your neon sign. Double-check that the hardware is level and firmly attached before proceeding to the final installation step.

Mount the Neon Sign

Step 10: Position the LED Neon Sign on the Acrylic Backboard

Carefully lift the LED neon sign mounted on the acrylic backboard. Align the pre-drilled holes at the top, typically on the left and right sides, with the installed hooks or brackets.

Step 11: Secure the Sign

Once aligned, ensure the sign is level and well-distributed. Depending on your setup, the sign may be flush against a wall, free-hanging, or positioned behind a retail window. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure stability and proper alignment.

Connect to Power

Step 12: Connect the LED Sign and Controller to a Power Source

Once the LED neon sign is securely mounted, connect it to the LED controller. Ensure the controller is properly connected to both the sign and the power source. Then, plug the sign into a standard outlet. Double-check that all connections are secure, and position the power adaptor safely out of sight.

Step 13: Pair the Remote and Stow the Controller

Before storing the LED controller, pair the remote control with the sign according to the manufacturer's instructions. Once paired and tested, stow the controller in a safe location, such as a ceiling cavity, secure box, or an area away from foot traffic. Make sure all wiring is neatly organised and tucked away to complete the installation.

Test the Sign

Step 14: Test the Sign

Turn on the power to test your LED neon sign. Ensure that it lights up evenly with no flickering or dimming. Inspect the sign for any issues with brightness or alignment. If everything looks good, your sign is ready to shine! Enjoy your new display.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overloading Wall Anchors: Ensure the wall anchors or mounting hardware you use can support the weight of the sign. Using the wrong type or size of anchors can result in the sign falling and potentially breaking.

Incorrect Placement: Be sure to measure and mark the spots accurately. If the sign isn’t level, it can look unprofessional and may even strain the mounting hardware, increasing the risk of it coming loose over time.

Ignoring Power Source Location: Make sure the sign’s power cord can reach the nearest outlet without needing an extension cord, which can look messy or create a tripping hazard.

Poor Insulation: For outdoor installations, ensure that all electrical components are adequately insulated and weatherproof to prevent any damage from moisture or temperature changes.

Conclusion

Hanging an LED neon sign is a straightforward process when you take the time to prepare properly and follow the necessary safety precautions. By ensuring the sign is securely mounted, aligned, and correctly connected to power, you can confidently display your custom LED neon sign in any space. Whether it's mounted on a wall, hanging freely, or placed behind a window, following these steps will help guarantee that your sign not only looks great but also remains safe and durable for years to come.