Why Mounting an Indoor TV in Your Patio Is an Expensive Mistake

Protect Your Investment with Purpose-Built Outdoor Entertainment 

Next time you’re planning a staycation or looking to host the big game with family and friends, outdoor entertainment spaces are usually a go-to destination. When people start dreaming up these spaces, though, it’s easy to attempt to save money and time by mounting a standard indoor TV outdoors. This is a huge mistake. Since these TVs aren’t built to brave the elements, you’ll end up paying more dealing with property damage and repeat installs. 

At Bethesda Systems, we bring decades of experience building outdoor entertainment spaces. We’re here to explain the differences between indoor and outdoor units, so you better understand why specialized equipment is needed. From corrosion-proof materials to enhanced cooling, our AV partners take great care to create TVs designed for the mid-Atlantic’s year-round weather fluctuations. 

Understanding IP Ratings and Corrosion 

Damaged equipment is the number one issue with using indoor TVs outside. You need to find models with the correct IP (Ingress Protection) ratings. These numbers correlate with how well TVs are protected from dust and liquid. 

The outdoor TVs we work with usually have an IP 55 rating. The first number deals with solids. A five means some dust may get in, but not enough to interfere with the TV's internal electronics. The second number corresponds to liquids. A five means protection from low-pressure water jets (e.g., a garden hose or heavy rain).

These models also include a powder-aluminum coating and specialized seals that repel bugs, rain, and corrosion that can affect internal circuit boards. Indoor TVs usually have plastic housings that don’t provide adequate protection. 

Fighting the Sun With Brightness and Anti-Glare Technology 

Even when your indoor TV can withstand the elements at first, it likely won’t make for a great viewing experience. They’re just not bright enough for full or semi-sun areas. TV brightness is usually measured in nits. Indoor TVs typically range from 250–450 nits, whereas outdoor TVs for full-sun areas can reach 2,000+ nits. The added brightness helps you avoid a washed-out image during the day. 

Outdoor displays also include anti-glare and anti-reflective glass, so you don’t end up with that common mirror effect in bright environments. You see the game in its full glory, not a reflection of you sitting on your patio furniture or the sun setting behind you. 

Protecting Your TV From the Summer Heat 

Indoor TVs rely on passive vents to let heat escape. That creates two issues. The vents let in moisture and insects. They also get dirty and clogged. And this passive system often can’t handle large temperature fluctuations. 

Outdoor TVs use active heating and cooling systems to handle temperatures ranging from sub-zero winters to 120°F summer afternoons. They also include specialized technology on the screens–indoor TVs sometimes use crystals that boil or turn black when exposed directly to UV rays. 

While an outdoor TV has a higher upfront cost, it replaces the cycle of buying and replacing cheap indoor units every season. Ready to build the ultimate backyard theater? Contact the experts at Bethesda Systems today for a professional consultation.