All About LED Sign Tubes in Signage Lighting

Commercial advertising signs or logos have become an indispensable marketing tool for a wide range of industries. Small, medium, and large commercial businesses use indoor or outdoor signs to attract the attention of potential customers, existing customers, and other stakeholders. Most entrepreneurs, facility managers, and others opt for illuminated signs, which use lighting sources including neon, fluorescent, and LED lights. LED signage is considered superior to other signage because LED lighting technology is superior to other lighting technologies.

As a result, sign owners prefer LED lighting products for their commercial signage lighting needs. They look for a reputable LED signage manufacturer who will design and produce LED advertising signs that suit their specific requirements. SignliteLED does not produce LED signs, but we are a Chinese manufacturer that specializes in LED signage lighting products. Our LED signage lighting products mainly include double-sided 360° LED sign light tubes and side-lit LED strip lights. Our LED signage lighting products mainly include double-sided 360° LED sign light tubes, side-illuminated LED strip lights, back-illuminated LED rigid strip lights, diffuse reflective flexible LED strip lights, LED modules, and so on. This article is going to introduce our core product—LED sign tube.

What are the types of sign lighting?

First, let’s recognize what sign lighting is. Sign lighting is the process of making an advertising sign or signboard glow for the purpose of attracting potential customers. Although business companies nowadays place a lot of emphasis on online promotion, there is no denying the fact that offline marketing is crucial for maximizing revenues and profits.

In the realm of illuminated signage, there are a variety of options to choose from, each with their own unique benefits and applications. Let’s take a look at the four types of illuminated signage below and explore the areas where they can have the greatest impact on your business.

1. Lightbox illumination

Light box signage using translucent panels or flexible film can be back-illuminated, can be side-illuminated, and can also be illuminated from the center of the light to illuminate both sides; regardless of the use of that type of illumination, the light is to form a bright, eye-catching display effect. The panel or film can be customized with your choice of graphics, making it a great choice for promotions, events, or new products.

2. Lighting Neon Sign

Neon signs have been a popular choice for decades. They are widely used by businesses in the food, beverage, and entertainment industries. These signs feature a glass tube filled with neon gas that glows brightly when energized. Today, neon signs are being replaced by LED neon signs because they mimic the same characteristics of fluorescent lights, are more durable, require less maintenance, and can be used both indoors and outdoors, giving off a bright, warm glow that feels very nostalgic.

3. Illuminated Channel Letter Signs

Illuminated channel letter signs, also known as halo or backlit channel letter signs, are one of the most popular ways to stand out. These signs have individual three-dimensional letters (channel letters) that glow from behind, creating a halo effect. These letters are usually made of acrylic, stainless steel, or aluminum and can be customized with colors, fonts, and sizes of your choice.

4. Digital Signage

Digital signage communicates with customers through LED screens. These screens can be integrated into tower signage or mounted individually on the wall. The great thing about using digital signage is that they offer many programmable options. You can display your company name, special offers, announcements, product images, and even animated videos. Since they use LED screens for display, they can be manufactured in a variety of different sizes and resolutions. Digital signage is also known as electronic message center signage or LED charts. Digital signage is the most modern type of signage lighting and is perfect for attracting new customers.

What is an LED Sign Tube?

In the field of light box signage lighting, there are many outdoor or indoor light box signs that have been using LED sign tubes for lighting for a long time. So, what are LED sign tubes?

Designed for single or double-sided light box signs with 360 degree double-sided optics, LED sign tubes are ideal for replacing traditional T12HO and T8HO fluorescent lamps; that’s why they’re also called LED retrofit tubes.

Constructed of durable PC plastic and aluminum, the T8 LED Sign Tube has a built-in LED driver power supply with a G13 or R17D base, LEDs on both sides, and an optical lens with diffusion to provide 360° illumination. The LED Sign Tube’s optics are designed to diffuse the light, providing smooth, even light distribution while avoiding harsh hot spots. At the same time, our LED retrofit tubes require no external drivers or ballasts and can still be used with existing sockets, eliminating the need to waste time and resources replacing failed ballasts and allowing installers to direct light where it’s needed with the rotatable G13 or R17D end caps.

If you want to see more details, please click on the product link.

Why Use LED Sign Tubes in Sign Lighting?

LED sign tubes are a popular choice for businesses looking to enhance their signs and attract more customers. The new LED sign tubes are designed for single or double-sided signs, which allows them to be used for all types of signs.

Compared to traditional fluorescent tubes, LED sign tubes provide the same brightness while consuming significantly less power. This not only reduces energy costs but also helps businesses reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a greener environment.

LED sign tubes also offer superior performance because, with an optical lens that diffuses the light, the LED light produces an intense and consistent light. This ensures that your sign is visible and eye-catching, even in harsh outdoor environments. LED sign tubes make your sign visible day or night, attracting more customers.

Finally, LED sign replacement tubes are easy to install and maintain. They feature a simple plug-and-play design with rotatable end caps that allow you to install them using the existing R17D sockets in your sign; all necessary wiring can be done inside the ballast track; no external drivers or power supplies are required, and no complicated wiring or professional assistance is needed. Users can easily retrofit existing fluorescent tubes with LED replacement lamps, saving time and money.

What Are the Advantages of Our LED Sign Tube?

1.Improved visibility

With a luminous efficiency of 120 lm/W, our LED sign tubes ensure that your advertising message is seen and remembered, thus increasing sign visibility and brand awareness.

2.Cost Savings

Due to the use of LED technology and the use of a built-in high-PF LED power supply driver, LED sign tubes have low energy consumption and low maintenance costs, resulting in significant cost savings over time.

3. Environmentally friendly

LED sign tubes are not harmful to the environment; they do not contain toxic substances such as mercury, which is commonly found in fluorescent tubes. LED sign tubes are also fully recyclable, reducing their impact on the environment. By using LED sign light tubes, you are not only benefiting your business, but you are also contributing to a greener, more sustainable future.

4. Multiple Sizes Available

Our 360 LED sign tubes are available in 14 size options (18“-120”) and can be customized for any size and type of advertising light box to provide the most in-demand lighting performance.

5. Support UL certification

Our LED sign tubes are UL certified, which is definitely the biggest recognition of our product quality. For UL certificates, please refer to the certificate page.

Where Are the Main Applications for LED Sign Retrofit Tubes?

Retail signage and display light boxes

Transform storefronts into captivating and creative showrooms by illuminating signage in retail spaces with LED sign retrofit tubes. From vivid window displays that draw shoppers into the store to dynamic signage that promotes special offers and events, these fixtures are a must-have for retailers looking to stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Light boxes for commercial premises

LED sign tubes bring an inviting glow to commercial venues such as hotels, restaurants, and casinos. Whether greeting guests at entrances, guiding them through lobbies and corridors, or setting the mood in dining areas and event spaces, these fixtures play a vital role in creating a memorable experience for visitors.

Transportation signage light boxes

From airport terminals and train stations to bus stops and subway platforms, these LED signage light tubes provide clear and accurate guidance to travelers, ensuring a smooth journey for all. Whether it’s displaying real-time information, providing directional tips, or promoting transportation services, LED sign tubes play a vital role in keeping passengers informed, safe, and on time.

What Are the Considerations When Choosing LED Sign Tubes?

1. Size: First of all, it is important to determine the size and dimensions of your sign. LED sign light tubes come in a variety of lengths, so you need to make sure that the tube you choose fits your sign perfectly.

2. Color Temperature: Choose the right color temperature to match the environment and the purpose of the sign. Warm or cool colors evoke different emotions and reactions. And color temperature affects the appearance of the light; the lower the temperature, the yellower the light, and the higher the temperature, the bluer the light.

3. Mounting Options: Depending on the advertising light box you want to remodel, choose different mounting options to ensure that your sign tubes are safely and aesthetically displayed.

How to Install LED Sign Tube?

For new signage:

Super easy! Put sign tubes into sockets; no need for ballast at all; just ensure all tubes (L) and (N) sides correspond with the correct wire of sockets.

For replacing fluorescent tubes with ballast:

How to Replace Fluorescent Lamps with LED Sign Tubes in Your Backlit Sign

What Maintenance Can I Do to Extend the Life of My LED Signboard Tubes?

Regular maintenance ensures that LED sign tubes remain efficient and effective, preventing problems that could lead to costly repairs or early replacement, and is critical to maximizing the life and performance of LED sign lamps. Below are some essential maintenance tips that can help users extend the life of their LED signboard tubes:

1. Regular Cleaning

Dust, dirt, and contaminants can accumulate on the surface of LED signboard tubes, reducing their illumination and potentially leading to overheating. Regular cleaning is essential to maintain their performance. Wipe the surface of the signboard light with a soft, lint-free cloth and a mild cleaning solution. Please note: Always turn off the sign tube and disconnect the power before cleaning.

2. Inspection

Regularly check for flickering, dimming, or dead LEDs. Replacing faulty LEDs in a timely manner will prevent further problems and ensure continuous illumination.

3. Unaffected by the external environment

Outdoor LED signboard tubes should be fully protected from the external environment. Ensure that waterproof devices are well sealed and that moisture and debris are not entering the fixture. If there are signs of wear and tear or damage, replace as necessary.

4. surge protectors

Consider using a surge protector to protect the LED sign tube fixture from power fluctuations. Electrical surges or power spikes can damage the fixture and shorten its life. Surge protectors help prevent this damage and extend the life of the fixture.

5. Professional Inspection

It is best to have your LED sign tube inspected by a professional on a regular basis. A professional can identify any potential problems, such as electrical issues or wiring damage, and make the necessary repairs.

6. Record-keeping

Keep detailed maintenance and inspection records. This includes the date of cleaning, the date of parts replacement, and any issues that have been resolved. Documenting issues helps track the performance and maintenance history of your LED signage tube.

SignliteLED offers LED sign tubes that are UL listed, IP65 rated, and offer superior performance and ease of installation, providing convenience and peace of mind for sign makers and sign owners. If you have any further questions, please contact us. If you are looking for a local distributor, please contact our Canada distributor, ALLANSON.