WHY YOU NEED AN OUTDOOR-SPECIFIC TV

People ask, “Why can’t I just use a regular TV outside?” Outdoor TVs have special features that are needed for both enjoyment and durability.

Enhanced Brightness

Have you ever struggled to see a TV screen in a sunny room? This effect, known as “wash,” occurs when sunlight overpowers the brightness settings on the device. Outdoor-specific TVs mitigate this problem by being up to 6x brighter than a typical indoor TV.

Outdoor TVs are typically between 2,000 to 4,000 nits (the unit of measurement for brightness). By comparison, indoor TVs are only 400 to 600 nits. Even the most advanced indoor TV models are no match for their outdoor-specific counterparts! Outdoor TVs also contain special antiglare technology that helps reflect ultraviolet light.

Temperature Control

Outdoor TVs were developed primarily for commercial use, so they were designed to handle the heat of being on all the time. Though models are created now for at-home use, the original technology remains: outdoor TVs do not overheat. 

Weatherproof Design

Outdoor televisions are designed and sealed to protect components from water, humidity, dust, and pollen—as well as insects, which are attracted to the devices’ hum. Outdoor TVs have IP66 certification, which is the standard for electronics to be approved for outdoor use.  

INSTALLING A TV OUTSIDE

Before setting up and installing your outdoor TV, think about how and where you plan to use it. Choose options for mounting and connectivity that will work for your space and viewing activity.

Installation Location & Mounting

When installing a TV outside, think about details like: Where will it hang? Where will it plug in? Does it need to connect to a cable box? These are common options:

Exterior Wall
One option for outdoor TV installation is mounting on an exterior wall to create more space in your outdoor living area. You can choose what type of mount works best for viewing: flat, tilt, or full motion. 

Pole Mount
Another option for outdoor TV installation doesn’t require a wall and is great for kitchen areas, fire pits, or pool areas. Use a pole mount to install a TV practically anywhere and swivel the view to reach specific areas. 

Rolling Cart
Putting your outdoor TV on a rolling cart is another great option if you want to watch TV from different parts of your outdoor space. You can also roll it away for safe storage when it’s not in use.

Streaming & Wi-Fi Connectivity

If you plan to watch shows or movies via Netflix, Hulu, or any other streaming service, invest in an outdoor TV with Wi-Fi capabilities. Samsung was the first manufacturer to introduce a smart outdoor TV (The Terrace). SunBrite has also since launched its own smart outdoor TV (Veranda Series 3). See Revelation AV & Automation’ recommended outdoor TV models below. 

You’ll also need to consider your Wi-Fi strength. Home internet is often limited to the interior of the home. We can help get a strong signal into your yard with a booster or repeater so you can stream movies and shows—and use all your other devices in the space as well. Let us optimize your Wi-Fi.

Outdoor Sound System

Fewer walls means that getting great sound outdoors is a lot harder than indoors. For your outdoor TV viewing experience, you’ll want to integrate an outdoor-specific soundbar featuring weatherproof technology. Select a soundbar from the same manufacturer as your TV to ensure it attaches and connects seamlessly. You can also combine your outdoor TV with an outdoor audio system for killer tailgating parties and watching movies under the stars.

Important Outdoor TV Installation Ideas

• Know your building codes before mounting a TV to an exterior wall.
• Ensure that all cords, mounts, and other accessories are weatherproof so they won’t rust or break down from heat, humidity, dust, and other elements.
• Don’t install a TV above anything that gets hot, like a stove or fire pit.
• Avoid installing a TV in the splash radius of a pool or hot tub. While outdoor TVs are designed to be water-resistant, the chemicals from a pool or hot tub can cause damage to the screen coating.
• Invest in a weatherproof cover to protect your outdoor TV from excess dirt, pollen, or bird droppings.
• Install a home security system to protect your TV from theft.
• Install an outdoor lighting system to create the perfect outdoor TV viewing ambiance.

HIRE A PROFESSIONAL TO INSTALL YOUR OUTDOOR TV

When installing a TV outside, it’s always best to work with a professional. We have the experience, knowledge, tools, and equipment to take care of the nuances of your outdoor TV installation and ensure the job is done safely, effectively, and efficiently. Revelation AV & Automation will help you choose and purchase the outdoor TV, help select the best location, bring proper equipment for installation and mounting, and correctly connect accessories like soundbars and Wi-Fi. Protect your investment so your outdoor TV will perform optimally for years to come.

OUTDOOR TV MODELS

There are three outdoor TV models that Revelation AV & Automation currently recommends: Séura, SunBrite, and Samsung. Seúra and SunBrite are pioneers of the outdoor TV industry. While newer to the market, Samsung was the first to introduce a smart outdoor TV.

GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR OUTDOOR SPACE

An outdoor TV can transform your home’s exterior into the perfect area to entertain or relax. Let our one-day installation bring a favorite indoor activity to your outdoor space. Contact us today for a free estimate!