22 Common Mistakes Businesses Make with Neon Open signs (and How to Fix Them)

Open signs have been around for decades, but neon changed the game. The glow of a neon open sign is often the first thing people notice when walking or driving past a shop. It signals energy, activity, and a warm welcome. Yet plenty of businesses use their signs the wrong way, wasting their potential. Here’s a look at the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Placing The Sign Too High or Too Low

Customers scan at eye level. If your sign is tucked near the ceiling or hidden below a window ledge, people miss it. Position it so it’s instantly visible from the sidewalk or across the street.

2. Picking Colors that Don’t Stand Out

A neon light open sign in blue on a tinted window or a red one against brick fades into the background. Contrast is everything. Pair bright shades with lighter backdrops so the glow jumps out.

3. Choosing Hard-to-Read Fonts

Script-style fonts might look artistic, but they’re impossible to read from a distance. Stick with bold, clean fonts that spell out "Open" clearly. People should recognize it in seconds.

4. Letting Dust and Smudges Collect

A dusty window dulls the shine. Smudges make even the best led open sign look old. Wipe the glass and the frame often so the glow stays crisp and inviting.

5. Leaving it On 24/7

If the sign says “Open” but the doors are locked, customers get confused. Use a timer or a smart plug so your open led light sign only runs during business hours.

6. Ignoring Flickers and Dim Spots

Nothing makes a place look less cared for than a flickering tube or half-lit letter. Whether you use a classic neon open sign or an open led neon sign, check it regularly and replace weak parts quickly.

7. Picking the Wrong Size

A small sign gets lost on a big storefront. An oversized sign on a tiny boutique looks awkward. Balance the size of your sign with your shopfront for maximum impact.

8. Blocking it with Displays

Clothing racks, posters, and product stacks often end up covering signs. Keep the window space clear so your custom open signs shine through.

9. Using Outdated Designs

Some neon signs look straight out of the 90s-and not in a charming way. Today’s led open signs have modern designs that look sleek and professional. If your current one looks tired, it may be time to buy a neon open sign with a fresh design.

10. Choosing Dull Shades

Neon is meant to pop. Pale yellow or dim green often look washed out. Go with vibrant shades like pink, red, or electric blue for your neon open signs for sale to really stand out.

11. Not Testing Visibility at Night

Signs can look fine during the day but disappear after dark. Step outside your store at night and see how your neon light open sign looks in real life. Adjust placement or brightness if needed.

12. Forgetting About Tinted Glass

Dark windows mute neon light. A white neon open sign or white led open sign can cut through tinted glass better and stay visible even under daylight glare.

13. Overcrowding the Window

A busy storefront filled with decals, posters, and multiple lights can drown out your open sign. Simplify the window space so your neon open sign takes center stage.

14. Ignoring Local Vibe

Some neighbourhoods lean modern, others vintage. Choosing a design that matches your area makes the sign blend naturally into the street while still standing out. Custom neon open signs let you adjust style and color to match your business personality.

15. Using Cheap Materials

Low-quality signs lose brightness quickly. If you’re shopping for open signs for sale, check durability and reviews. Investing in a quality led open sign saves money in the long run.

16. Not Adjusting Brightness

Too dim and people won’t notice. Too bright and it’s uncomfortable to look at. Many open led light signs allow dimming. Find the right setting for your street and window.

17. Forgetting About Weather Exposure

If your sign faces direct sunlight for hours, it may fade faster. Rain and humidity can also affect wiring. Make sure your open led neon sign is rated for your conditions or placed behind glass.

18. Using Only One Sign

Big stores on busy streets benefit from multiple signs. Placing one at each window or door ensures people from different angles notice your shop. Many retailers choose custom open signs that align with their branding to make a stronger statement.

19. Failing to Replace Old Tubes or LEDs

Colors fade with age. An old neon open sign may no longer glow as bright as it did when you first installed it. Refreshing with new tubes or updating to an open led neon sign keeps your storefront looking alive.

20. Not Branding the Sign

Some businesses settle for generic designs. A custom neon open sign lets you pick colors that match your logo or brand style. That simple detail makes your shop more memorable.

21. Forgetting Online Reviews and Photos

Customers often snap pictures of storefronts. A broken or faded sign shows up in those photos and stays online forever. Keep your neon light open sign in photo-ready condition.

22. Buying Without Comparing

When looking for neon open signs for sale, many businesses buy the first one they find. Compare styles, colors, and durability before making a choice. The best open signs aren’t just bright-they also reflect your business style.

Choosing the Right Sign for Your Store

The good news is that fixing these mistakes is easy once you spot them. Modern options like an open led sign or a white neon open sign give you flexibility. Custom open signs allow you to design something unique to your store. If you’re looking to upgrade, check out open signs for sale that offer energy-efficient LED designs, long lifespans, and bold colors.

The right sign doesn’t just say “we’re open.” It makes people curious. It draws them in. And it gives your business the bright, welcoming presence it deserves.