A programmable or scrolling LED sign is a huge investment for any business, so it’s crucial to maximize its lifespan by properly cleaning it.
It’s spring cleaning time again! Just like a home, businesses should also consider taking a day or two to clean their space. Aside from the tables, chairs, and cabinets, spring cleaning should include cleaning business signages. And if you own programmable LED signs, whether indoor, outdoor, or semi-outdoor, this article is for you.
Because LED signs are a big investment, they need to be properly taken care of. One way to do this is to make sure they are clean enough to be able to display your messages clearly. This spring, follow the easy cleaning steps below for your business’s scrolling LED sign.
General Cleaning
Cleaning LED signs are easy and will not require too much of your time. But before starting, make sure to unplug the unit and uninstall it. Place the sign in a wide space where you can move around and easily access your cleaning materials. Spray some water on a clean microfiber towel and wipe the front panel or the sign’s surface, casing, frame, and other metallic parts of the unit.
To remove dirt stuck on the polymer surface, create a mild liquid soap and water solution. General cleaning of these signs does not require expensive special cleaning soap – you can use mild dishwashing soap. However, avoid using abrasive tools like a scrubbing pad or brush, as these can immediately scratch the surface of your signs. Use the same microfiber towel you used to wet the surface and gently scrub the dirt. Rinse using another microfiber towel sprayed with water and gently wipe until the soap is removed. Dry with a soft microfiber towel to prevent water spots.
Stubborn Dirt Removal
Graffiti is unavoidable, especially if your business is located near transportation systems and shelters. If your sign’s surface has been defaced with spray paint or permanent markers, you can easily remove them with isopropyl alcohol. Spray or apply an ample amount of alcohol to a clean microfiber towel and gently scrub the marker or spray paint away. You can also apply the alcohol directly to the surface and then immediately wipe it off.
As for the metal parts of your LED sign, you can also use WD-40 oil or bug and tar remover if the isopropyl alcohol does not work.
Spot Cleaning
If you only need to clean a particular spot on your LED sign, you can use a glass cleaner like Biokleen or Windex. Spray the product onto the spot and gently wipe it with a clean microfiber towel. If the two brands of glass cleaner are not available, make sure that you use one that does not have butyl cellosolve, as this ingredient can damage the polymer surface.
When it comes to removing calcium deposits or lime, use a water and baking soda solution at a 1:1 ratio or a water and vinegar solution at a 10:1 ratio. Use a microfiber towel to gently scrub the spot.
Preventive LED Sign Care
Aside from general cleaning, there are ways to extend the lifespan of your LED sign and prevent damage to the unit before it happens. Here are three ways:
#1 Powering off when not in use
Shutting the unit down after business hours can contribute to the life extension of your programmable LED sign. Aside from that, you also get to cut energy costs.
#2 Regular cleaning
Outdoor programmable LED signs are more prone to dirt and dust. The accumulation of these on the surface dulls bright LED bulbs, making your sign ineffective. This is especially true if your business establishment is located in desert states or the snowiest places in the country. Regular cleaning would only require you to wipe the surface with a damp microfiber cloth to prevent dirt and dust from building up.
#3 Routine sign maintenance
Although scrolling LED signs require less maintenance, routine checks are also crucial. Check if the wiring is all in good order and has not been damaged by weather, gravity, pests and rodents, or accidents. You can also hire a technician to check for any burned wires, frayed insulation, or loose connections.
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For more programmable LED sign tips such as these, make sure to follow our blog. If you need to purchase a new sign for your business, browse through our extensive catalog at AffordableLED.com.

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