How to Get Your Old Sign Retrofitted with LED

TLDR:
To get your old sign retrofitted with LED, you’ll need to remove the existing lighting (like neon or fluorescent), install energy-efficient LED modules and drivers, and reconnect the system following proper wiring and safety standards. Working with professionals like Horizon Sign & Lighting ensures the job complies with Texas permits, codes, and rebate opportunities—while delivering reliable long-term performance.

Why Retrofitting Old Signs with LED Is the Smart Move in Texas

Retrofits aren’t just a trend—they’re a survival strategy for businesses facing rising utility costs, outdated signage, and maintenance nightmares. Texas businesses in particular are seeing huge gains from LED retrofits, and here’s why:



Energy Savings Add Up Fast

• LEDs use up to 80% less power than neon or fluorescent lights.
  
  
• A traditional fluorescent sign drawing 400W can be replaced with an LED system using just 80–100W.
  
  
• Over 5 years, this can equal $1,500–$4,000 in savings, depending on your sign's size and daily usage.
  
  

Less Maintenance, Longer Life

• LEDs last between 50,000 to 100,000 hours (roughly 5–10 years of use).
  
  
• Unlike neon or fluorescents, LEDs don’t require regular ballast changes or frequent bulb replacements.
  
  
• Fewer outages = fewer service calls = lower operating costs.
  
  

Environmentally Friendly Lighting

• LEDs don’t contain hazardous mercury or phosphor.
  
  
• Most parts are recyclable, reducing e-waste.
  
  
• Texas municipalities are increasingly encouraging eco-friendly upgrades with incentives.
  
  

Local Rebates and Faster ROI

• Many Texas utilities (like TXU Energy, CPS Energy, and Austin Energy) offer rebates for LED conversions.
  
  
• With rebates and reduced energy bills, ROI can occur in as little as 6 to 18 months.
  

Is Your Sign Retrofit-Eligible? Quick Pre-Check

Before starting the retrofit, here’s how to know if your sign can be retrofitted without a full replacement:



Common Sign Types That Work Well for Retrofits:

• Lightbox signs (cabinet-style)
  
  
• Channel letters
  
  
• Monument signs
  
  
• Pole/pylon signs
  
  
• Neon border tubing or logo signs
  
  

Eligibility Checklist:

• The sign cabinet or housing is structurally sound.
  
  
• Existing wiring is not brittle or deteriorated.
  
  
• Sign face (acrylic or polycarbonate) is in good condition.
  
  
• Electrical access is safe and up to code.
  
  
• Sign is UL-listed or can be brought to UL standards post-upgrade.
  
  

If you’re unsure, Horizon Sign & Lighting offers free field evaluations across Texas to inspect signs and provide retrofit assessments.

DIY vs Professional LED Sign Retrofits in Texas

Can You DIY This?

Some handy business owners consider retrofitting themselves, but LED conversions involve electrical work, which in Texas, often requires:

• Licensed electrical contractors
  
  
• City permits (depending on your municipality)
  
  
• UL certification for commercial signage

Understanding permits for business signage is essential before taking on any retrofit project, especially outdoors. Requirements vary by city, and non-compliance can delay installation or result in fines. That’s why most businesses turn to professionals like Horizon Sign & Lighting to handle the permitting process, ensure code compliance, and avoid costly mistakes.

Pros of Hiring Professionals Like Horizon Sign & Lighting:

• Permit handling and city inspection compliance
  
  
• UL-certified installations
  
  
• Proper LED module layout and driver selection
  
  
• Warranty coverage on parts and labor
  
  
• Long-term service and maintenance support
  
  

Unless it’s a very small indoor sign and you have certified experience, it’s best to leave retrofits to the pros—especially outdoors where power, weatherproofing, and safety are key.

Step-by-Step: How Horizon Sign & Lighting Retrofits Old Signs with LED

Here’s how we retrofit old signage to high-performing, code-compliant LED systems across Texas:



1. Field Evaluation & Planning

• Inspect structural integrity of cabinet
  
  
• Map existing electrical connections and lighting layout
  
  
• Document dimensions, depth, and visibility angles
  
  
• Create a lighting layout plan with optimal LED spacing
  
  
• Identify if retrofit requires permits or city approval
  
  

2. Selecting LED Components

• Choose LED modules based on:
  
  
• Brightness (lumens)
  
  
• Beam angle
  
  
• Color temperature (typically 5000K for daylight effect)
  
  
• Select energy-efficient drivers sized to match module count
  
  
• Choose waterproof or IP-rated components for outdoor use
  
  

3. Removal of Old Components

• Power shut-off and lockout-tagout for safety
  
  
• Remove old tubes, neon, ballasts, transformers, and wiring
  
  
• Clean interior surfaces for optimal light reflection
  
  

4. Installing LED System

• Mount LED modules using brackets or adhesive backing
  
  
• Position evenly across interior for uniform illumination
  
  
• Mount and wire LED drivers to main power
  
  
• Connect modules in series or parallel per manufacturer specs
  
  
• Test circuit voltage, amperage, and driver compatibility
  
  

5. System Testing & Final Inspection

• Turn power on, check all modules for brightness and function
  
  
• Measure light output and consistency
  
  
• Ensure wiring is clean, sealed, and weather-protected
  
  
• Final city inspection if required
  
  
• Apply UL sticker and close signage with clean, sealed faces
  

LED Sign Conversion Cost and Rebates in Texas

General Cost Ranges:



• Small signs (under 4ft x 4ft): $800 – $1,500
  
  
• Medium cabinet signs: $1,500 – $3,000
  
  
• Large pole/pylon signs: $3,000 – $7,000+
  
  

What Impacts Cost:

• Sign size and access height
  
  
• Number of LED modules and drivers required
  
  
• Cabinet condition and wiring complexity
  
  
• Permit and inspection fees
  
  

Texas-Specific Rebates:

• CPS Energy (San Antonio): Commercial retrofit rebates up to $0.14/kWh saved
  
  
• TXU Business Incentives: Custom project-based rebates
  
  
• Austin Energy: Prescriptive rebates for LED retrofits
  
  
• Oncor Electric Delivery: Incentives for North Texas businesses
  
  

We handle rebate paperwork at Horizon Sign & Lighting to help you maximize your savings.

Post-Retrofit Maintenance: What to Expect

LED signs require very little upkeep, but still benefit from:



• Quarterly wipe-downs of sign faces to maintain brightness
  
  
• Annual driver and connection checks
  
  
• After major weather events, inspect for water intrusion or wiring looseness
  
  
• Update dimming or timer settings seasonally
  
  

If anything ever fails, Horizon Sign & Lighting provides quick service backed by parts and labor warranties.

Advanced Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Retrofit

• Dimming & Time Controls:
  Add a photo sensor or timer to automatically turn off the sign during daylight hours.
  
  
• Color Temperature Tuning:
  Choose warmer or cooler light depending on your brand style and business type.
  
  
• Smart Controls:
  Integrate LED signs with building automation or scheduling apps for better energy management.
  
  
• Weatherproofing:
  Ensure drivers and modules have appropriate IP ratings for rain, wind, and heat exposure.
  

Common Questions About LED Sign Retrofits in Texas

How long does a typical retrofit take?

1 to 3 days depending on sign size and permitting.

Is a permit always required?

In most Texas cities, yes—especially if electrical components are modified. Horizon handles this.

What if my sign cabinet is rusted or warped?

If structural integrity is compromised, replacement may be more cost-effective.

Can I retrofit neon flex to LED?

Yes, using LED flexible tubing to mimic neon appearance.