Are you tired of being confined indoors to enjoy your favorite movies, music, or games? The allure of outdoor entertainment is undeniable, but it brings up a crucial question: How do you protect your electronics when you take them outdoors? At VAIL Audio, we understand your desire to enjoy home entertainment outdoors, and we’ve put together this easy to follow guide to help you safeguard your outdoor electronics effectively.
Understanding Outdoor Electronics
Before delving into the protective measures, it’s essential to understand what outdoor electronics are and their unique characteristics.
Types of Outdoor Electronics
1. Outdoor TVs: These are specially designed to withstand outdoor conditions and can be either weatherproof/water-resistant or waterproof.
2. AV Systems: AV systems built for the outdoors offer fantastic audiovisual experiences but need protection from the elements.
3. Outdoor Patio Speakers: A staple for any outdoor patio system.
4. Projectors: Outdoor projectors can transform your backyard into an open-air cinema.
5. Remote Controllers: Even your remote controllers need protection when used outdoors.
Weather Resistance
Outdoor electronics can be categorized into two main types based on their weather resistance:
– Weatherproof/Water-Resistant: These electronics can handle light exposure to moisture and weather conditions but need proper care.
– Waterproof: Fully waterproof electronics can be submerged in water without damage, however come at with a hefty price tag.
While outdoor electronics are designed to withstand outdoor conditions, it’s important to note that they are still sensitive to moisture. Even water-resistant electronics require proper care to ensure a longer lifespan.
Protecting Your Outdoor Electronics and Outdoor Patio Radio
Now, let’s explore the steps you can take to safeguard your outdoor electronics, including outdoor patio radio, from the elements.
1. Sheltered Location
The best way to protect your outdoor electronics, including your outdoor patio radio, is to keep them in a sheltered area, such as a roofed patio or cabana. This offers them the necessary protection from rain, sunlight, and wind. At the very least installing under the eave to keep speakers out of direct weather.
2. Speaker Placement
– Aim outdoor speakers, including your outdoor patio radio, downward to prevent water and sunlight damage.
– Keep outdoor electronics elevated and away from sprinklers, pools, or other water sources.
– During storms, consider covering your outdoor electronics and outdoor patio radio for added protection.
– Ensure that outdoor electronics and your outdoor patio radio are not exposed to direct sunlight.
3. Remote Control Safety
Never bring remote controls near pools or water features to prevent accidental damage due to water exposure.
4. Positioning Outdoor TVs
For optimal viewing during daytime hours, position outdoor TVs, including your outdoor patio radio, away from direct sunlight. The light output of outdoor TVs and your outdoor patio radio cannot compete with the sun’s brightness.
5. Wiring and Components
When setting up outdoor electronics, including your outdoor patio radio, keep wiring and components as much indoors as possible. Consider the following:
– Use outdoor conduits to protect wires and cables, including those for your outdoor patio radio, from outdoor critters.
– Utilize cables that can be buried underground, known as Direct Burial-rated wire and cable, for your outdoor patio radio and other components.
– Separate electrical and AV cables, including those for your outdoor patio radio, to reduce the chance of electrical noise and accommodate future expansions.
Using Electronics Not Designed for the Outdoors
If you decide to use electronics that are not designed for outdoor use and lack water resistance, you have options to protect them:
1. Outdoor TV Enclosure
Consider purchasing an outdoor TV enclosure for your electronics, including your outdoor patio radio. However, these can vary in terms of protection and often provide water/weather resistance rather than full waterproofing. Be cautious of heat and humidity issues inside the enclosure.
2. Soft Outdoor TV Cover
Soft outdoor TV covers made with waterproof materials are cost-effective solutions to protect your electronics, including your outdoor patio radio, from the elements. Ensure they are airtight and always cover your TV and your outdoor patio radio when not in use. However, they may not be the most robust protection method.
3. Weatherproof Cabinet
Buying or building a weatherproof cabinet is another option to protect electronics, including your outdoor patio radio. The effectiveness can vary, and the cost depends on your preferences. Be mindful of potential heat and humidity issues, which can vary by location.
We hope this guide on protecting outdoor electronics, including your outdoor patio radio, has answered your questions and provided valuable insights into transitioning your home entertainment to the great outdoors. If you’re designing your outdoor entertainment space, don’t forget to explore our range of outdoor TVs, AV systems, and outdoor patio radio solutions at VAIL Audio.
Frequently Asked Questions
Outdoor electronics include outdoor TVs, AV systems, projectors, and remote controllers, designed for outdoor use. They can be weatherproof/water-resistant or fully waterproof.
To protect outdoor speakers, aim them downward to prevent water and sunlight damage. Keep them elevated and away from water sources. During storms, consider covering them.
Yes, you can, but precautions are needed. You can use outdoor TV enclosures, soft outdoor TV covers, or weatherproof cabinets to protect indoor electronics from outdoor conditions.
Position outdoor TVs away from direct sunlight for the best viewing experience during daylight hours.
Use outdoor conduits to protect wires from outdoor elements. Opt for cables that can be buried underground and separate electrical and AV cables to reduce electrical noise.