Get Out of the House with Outdoor TVs

Choosing an outdoor TV requires you to think about a few things.

First, you need to realize that not just any TV can function outdoors due to the high and low temperatures, the high humidity, exposure to rain, snow, wind, dirt, dust, smoke, and so forth. These TV's need to be sealed so that moisture and dirt can't get in to destroy the electronics or to cause corrosion. The exterior must be durable to withstand debris and incidental contact that's more likely to occur outdoors.

Outdoor TVs must also have a good airflow system to keep the television cool when temperatures soar and dry when humidity increases. Filters are used to help filter out dirt, dust, and smoke and their cleanliness is important to assure airflow is maintained. These TVs also need an internal heater to keep temperatures steady even when cooler weather sets in.

An outdoor TV also benefits from an exterior that won't corrode; for instance aluminum or stainless steel. It needs a scratch resistant screen with an anti-glare coating so that viewing isn't hampered by excessive glare. The best outdoor TV also needs a brighter display with good contrast ratio for the best viewing despite increased sunlight.

Finally, to be ready for outdoor viewing, the TV will need a mount and a remote control that will also withstand the elements and resist corrosion.

The TVs listed below will tolerate temperatures as low as 24 degrees below zero Fahrenheit and up to 122 degrees.

Outdoor TVs face a lot of situations that your regular television doesn't. Proper care is important if you want it to operate well and to last.

The first important step in protecting your outdoor TV is to properly mount it. Just as with any flat screen TV, a secure mount that protects the TV from falls and unnecessary bumps is important. These televisions will have mounts designed specifically for them and for use outdoors. Often made of aluminium, these mounts can withstand strong winds and so forth but will also resist corrosion just as the TV itself will. The Sunbrite TVs shown below have pole mounts, celing mounts, and articulating wall mounts that can be purchased for this purpose.

Once your television is in place, taking proper care of it assures a long life and proper operation. Cleaning outdoor TVs isn't complex but being aware of the manufacturers guidelines is critical. In general, these televisions are exposed to a great deal more dust, smoke, and dirt than the one that's inside your home. There are filters on the TV that need to be cleaned regularly to assure that they perform their intended function. Air flow on the TV is critical for it to withstand humidity and extreme temperatures.

In addition, the TV will have a cover that needs to be used whenever it's not in use to give it the protection it needs in the harshest circumstances. Cleaning the anti-glare window will of course be necessary as well, but care should be taken to use only approved cleaners and a soft microfiber cloth. Specific cleaning instructions will come with the television and need to be observed. Some instructions from Sunbrite are posted here.