It’s always interesting to take a look around a highly-trafficked area, especially at night, to see how many signs include LEDs. The question many sign makers have is: Just where can I put these things?
Traditional spots
Channel letters and sign cabinets have consistently been the most popular places to include LED lighting. This is likely to be the best source of income for sign makers using LEDs.
“LEDs are now integrated into almost every kind of sign project, including channel letters, cabinet signs, and linear border products,” says Bryan Vincent, partner, Principal LED. “One of the key benefits of LEDs is the size and ease of installation.”
Against other lighting options, LEDs are typically the preferred solution.
“Channel letters have benefitted the most because LEDs are so much easier to install than neon,” Natalie Picot, GE Current, shares, “saving sign makers countless hours over the years.”
Public places
“It also helps government agencies communicate with their communities by offering special features such as IPAWS-FEMA alerts,” says Josie Salitrero, Vantage LED USA.
However, Rob Riley, Keystone Technologies, warns that in some instances, lighting can actually become too bright and a nuisance to the public. In these cases, adhere to the local laws.
“We should be very careful, because as signs get brighter and brighter, so do lighting complaints from the general public,” he states. “Thus, prompting cities and governments to implement greater rules, restrictions, and regulations to the sign industry.”
Without question, when executed properly, LED signage is a tremendous help to the general public.
Anywhere and everywhere
Simply put: Just use it. When sign makers come across a project that requires lighted aspects, it’s safe to assume that LEDs should be a consideration.
“All sign projects have benefited from LEDs,” adds Picot. “Their wide range of applications allows them to bring the benefits of LEDs (longer lifespan, reduced maintenance, lower energy costs) to nearly every application.”
Salitrero agrees, adding, “I believe all projects (are a fit for LEDs), especially those utilizing a good quality LED display, benefit from having one installed. It provides great ROI and has proven to help increase a business’ walk-in traffic, plus becomes a big part of its branding.”
Riley lists four reasons why LEDs have become such a popular option today:
- Lower energy consumption compared to older technologies
- Less breakage in handling, shipping, and installations
- The price point
- Ability to add adaptability to more solar technologies
