Can Outdoor TVs Get Wet?

Outdoor TVs are becoming more a common staple on home patios and outdoor dining establishments, especially in climates where temperatures are ideal to enjoy a show or the big game outdoors.

However, if you're worrying that your new outdoor TV will get damaged by the elements, you're in the right place.

In this article, we will explore the different types of outdoor TVs - and touch on which can get wet and which cannot.

Can Outdoor TVs Get Wet?  The Short Answer

Installing a TV can be nerve wracking, especially when you've spent so much money on it, and multiple questions will likely arise before you carry out the installation process.

You might be wondering: Can I watch TV outside without worrying about rain or snow? Will it survive a light shower? Or worse, a heavy downpour?

The answer is it depends. An outdoor TV is specifically designed and marketed for permanent outdoor installation. Not all TVs are equal in terms of quality, and you often get what you pay for.

It's important to note that most outdoor TV's are made for either 1) covered patio placement, or 2) high exposure placement.  Almost alway, high exposure units are going to cost more, because they have undergone a more rigorous treatment process.

A TV that's rated for under patio placement will have its internal components treated to withstand moisture, humidity, and heat that naturally comes from an outdoor setting.  This will make it last much longer outdoors than a regular TV.

High exposure outdoor TVs have their external parts treated in addition to interior components.  The idea here is to make the screen and casing able to withstand direct sunlight, high heat, rain, snow, etc.

So in summary, under patio outdoor TVs need to be placed in an enclaved area, or perhaps inside of an outdoor TV cabinet.  High exposure TVs can be placed just about anywhere outdoors and they'll still perform great.

The catch?  An under patio TV is going to be more expensive on average than a comparable indoor unit.  By the same token, a high exposure outdoor TV will be more expensive than an under patio counterpart.

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Why Can Outdoor TVs Get Wet?

High quality outdoor TVs are able to get wet for a few reasons.

Firstly, this comes down to the fact that they are designed to be weatherproof, waterproof, and are fully sealed to prevent water from getting in and damaging them.

As a result, you don’t have to worry about protecting the outdoor TV from rain, water, snow, sun, or other extreme elements such as sleet.

In fact, many outdoor TVs come wrapped in a casing that works to protect the internal components from snow, insects, dust, heat, and even salt air if you live by the beach.

Secondly, many outdoor TVs can get wet because they are made with a durable and rust-proof exterior that is made to withstand the test of time. Talk about being ultra-durable and waterproof.

So, what materials are outdoor TVs made out of?

Indoor TVs are usually made out of plastic, which typically means they aren't equipped to survive outdoor conditions.

Outdoor TVs, on the other hand, are often made of metal as well as an impact resistant glass display.

They could also be treated with hydrophobic processes to make them weatherproof and to keep unwanted moisture out. 

Positives Of Outdoor TVs

There are several benefits to installing an outdoor TV.

Firstly, it allows you to enjoy the outdoors while watching your favorite show.

This is perfect for patrons at your restaurant, or just relaxing on the patio at home after work.

Second, if you're set on having a TV set up on your patio, an outdoor TV will save you money in the long run even though the upfront cost is higher.

You might be able to get away with mounting a regular TV outdoors for a year or two.  But eventually, the internal components will erode and you'll need to deal with the cost and hassle of replacing your unit.

Negatives Of Outdoor TVs

Of course, there are drawbacks to owning an outdoor TV too.  Here are some things for you to consider.

Firstly, there is a small security risk.  If someone breaks into your business, they could potentially access your outdoor TV - so it may be a good idea to have a locked enclosure or additional security measures on your property.

The other obvious negative to outdoor TV's is price.  Once again, it's a "you get what you pay for" type of situation, but there's no getting around the fact that patio TV's are pricier than your regular television.

Is It Necessary To Get An Outdoor TV Cabinet For Your Outdoor TV?

While you might think that installing an outdoor TV cabinet defeats the purpose of having an outdoor TV, it's good to cover all bases.

Prolongs The Lifespan Of Your Outdoor TV

While outdoor TVs are designed to withstand weather conditions, not all TVs are equal in terms of quality.

Keeping your TV unprotected from the weather means that it will naturally deteriorate over time.

This is why many companies suggest that you keep your outdoor TV either undercover or safe inside an outdoor cabinet.

Think of a TV cabinet as another layer of protection for your high-quality outdoor unit.

After all, a waterproof outdoor cabinet can help to prevent your TV from succumbing to the elements over time.

This means that you get more out of your investment, and your unit is sure to last for years to come.

Can I Use My Indoor TV Outdoors?

No, it is not recommended that you use your indoor TV outdoors.  That goes for any audio and video equipment. Whether it's a TV or a speaker, you need to make sure your equipment is designed for outdoor use before you install it outdoors.

This comes down to the fact that they are not designed for outdoor use.

In addition to this, there are a lot of factors that will result in you damaging or entirely breaking your indoor TV if you leave it to succumb to the elements outdoors.

For instance, factors such as moisture, condensation, and even bugs can cause your indoor TV to deteriorate at a rapid rate or break entirely.

In addition to this, if your indoor TV is rained on, then you're looking at a broken TV that you will need to replace.

This is not a good use of your investment, and will set you back even more money.

While some TVs have better build quality than others, it's not recommended that you take your indoor TV outside as it's simply not designed for this use.

Many will deteriorate in quality within a year, especially when it comes to hot, cold, and humid climates, while others will just break.

That being said, to keep your indoor TV in the best condition, you will want to make sure that you keep it indoors!  You should not just use any TV outdoors.

Final Thoughts

If you plan to spend a significant amount of time enjoying the game or a show on your patio, an outdoor TV is a wonderful investment that can elevate your home or business.

Just be sure to be aware of where you plan to place your TV so you can understand whether you need a full exposure TV or whether you can opt for an under patio placement.