Outdoor Television

Should I Buy an Outdoor TV?

Are you planning to purchase an outdoor TV?

Outdoor TVs can be a great way to add value to your backyard. You can watch the big game while you fire up the grill. Or you can watch the latest blockbuster film from the hot tub.
However, it’s not as simple as buying an outdoor TV and plugging it in. Should you cover your outdoor TV? What about cabinets and mounting? How do you connect it to your sound system?
In this post, we’re going to give you an overview of outdoor televisions. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Can You Use a Regular TV Outdoors?

If you have a regular TV, can’t you just put it outside?
Long answer short, the answer is no.
An indoor TV will break if you put it outside. The average indoor television can’t handle humidity or outdoor temperatures.
Outdoor TVs are built for outdoor use, so they won’t break as easily.
Also, the screen display on an outdoor TV is much brighter, so you can comfortably watch it when it’s sunny outside.

Are Outdoor TVs Weatherproof?

Since they are built to be outside, outdoor TVs are weatherproof.
They are also designed to protect against insects and pollen, which might clog up a standard TV.
Of course, this depends on which brand or model you buy. Some brands might do better than others, so we always suggest keeping your outdoor TV covered. You’ll need to protect it from direct sunlight, rain, and theft.
And you may need to add extra precautions in the most extreme temperatures. Let’s talk about that next.

Can Outdoor TVs Last in Extreme Temperatures?

The average outdoor TV is designed to be weatherproof, but every electronic device has its limits.
Outdoor TV screens can usually withstand hot temperatures up to 125 degrees Fahrenheit. (Be sure to double check the manual or ask the manufacturer.)
To keep your TV safe in the hot weather, you can:
Build an outdoor TV enclosure.
Improve air circulation with ceiling fans.
If you live in a place that gets cold weather in the winter, a good rule of thumb is that your TV can withstand anything above freezing (32 degrees F).
Anything lower than that, and you should cover your TV, either with an enclosure or a weatherproof sleeve.

Can Outdoor TVs Stay in Direct Sunlight?

Even if your outdoor TV can withstand the Florida heat, you shouldn’t keep your TV in direct sunlight.
Sun exposure will permanently damage your TV screen. Also, UV rays from the sun can deteriorate the chemicals in LCD and plasma screens.
When it comes to outdoor TVs, yes, they are weatherproof, but it’s best to treat your TV how you would treat yourself. No prolonged sun exposure, and keep it covered in case of rain, ice, and snow.
If you’re thinking of mounting your outdoor TV, make sure to install it in a covered area, like a gazebo or a covered patio.
Partial sun exposure is okay, depending on how severe the sunlight is. But when in doubt, keep it in the shade.
Some of the outdoor TVs we’ve installed work really well with the customer’s outdoor kitchen space. You can see the pictures, and some descriptions of what we built, on the page titled “Our Work.”

Outdoor Television Enclosures, Cabinets, and Covers

If you plan to have an outdoor TV, it’s a good idea to install a cabinet for it. This helps block some of the direct sunlight, as well as protect the screen from rain, snow, and ice.
Also, keep in mind that you will need speakers for your outdoor TV. Where do you plan to install those?
A cabinet makes it easy to keep the TV and sound system safe.
Remember, any time you’re installing cabinets outdoors, those should be weatherproof too. You don’t want the cabinets to warp or crack.
You can also purchase a cover for your TV when you’re not using it. This is a good choice, if a cabinet is not an option. Covers are also less expensive.

Sound Quality with Indoor vs. Outdoor Televisions

What is the sound quality like for an outdoor TV?
Most outdoor TV brands come with a built-in speaker. Depending on what brand you buy, this could be a great speaker, or it could sound like a tin can.
If you’re working with our company to build your outdoor kitchen, we only recommend the best outdoor TV brands.
If you want to improve your outdoor TV sound system, you can always add extra speakers. Make sure that whatever sound system you purchase, is built for the outdoors.

Cable, Media Players, and Other Extras

One more thing to consider when it comes to your outdoor TV is the cable, media players, and other extras.
If you have cable, how do you plan to connect it to your TV?
And what about other media players, like blu ray machines? These need to be connected to the TV, but they should be protected from the elements.
If you plan to build an outdoor TV cabinet, that’s an easy way to keep your cable safe and secure.
Don’t forget the remote control. You’ll want to add a special place to keep the remote control, so you don’t lose it right before the guests arrive.

Should I Buy an Outdoor TV?

In the end, the question comes down to, “should I buy an outdoor TV?”
Any time you’re building an outdoor kitchen area, you should try to buy the best products available. That way, your outdoor kitchen will last for years to come.
That includes the television screen. When you buy an outdoor TV, you’re paying to ensure that the TV won’t break right away. You’re also paying for that extra brightness, so you can watch it on sunny days.
So should you buy an outdoor TV? If you plan to put it outside, the answer is, yes you should!