Choosing a TV for your Outdoor Space

With warmer weather, most of us are eager to set up outdoor living spaces to make a relaxing outdoor getaway. According to a recent survey, 90 percent of Americans say their outdoor living spaces are more important now than ever before.

Some common additions are fire pits, outdoor patio heaters, and of course comfortable seating. If you are a sports fan, you have probably considered adding a big screen television to your outdoor oasis.  When considering an outdoor television, here are some things to consider:
 

• Be sure your television is specifically designed to be used outdoors. These tvs are guaranteed to operate in a variety of temperatures and weather conditions. They are built to withstand dust, dirt, moisture and sun exposure.
   
• Outdoor tvs also feature brighter displays to compensate for bright sunlight, reduced glare, weatherproof components that won’t rust or corrode, sealed casings to keep moisture out, and temperature controls to prevent freezing or overheating.
   
• Consider how you plan to mount your television in our outdoor space. Wall mounts, celling mounts, and pole mounts are all options The best choice for you will often be determined by the space. Make sure the tv you purchase is capable of being mounted the way you have chosen.
  
   
• While outdoor tvs are designed specifically for use in adverse conditions, you may want to consider mounting your television in a covered area to minimize contact with moisture from rain. Also, avoid placing your tv close to hot tubs or pools where they could be splashed with water.

When choosing which television to purchase, consider:

• Screen size: Start by measuring the space to determine the right size. A too big or too large model can be distracting.
   
• Resolution: Picture quality concerns are the same indoor and outdoor. If you want an ultra-high definition tv, expect to pay a premium price for it.
   
• Reliability: Do your homework on which tv is right for you. Be sure to check online ratings, warranties, and reviews to find a tv that fits your situation and budget.

Generally, outdoor televisions cost more than those designed for indoor use. This is caused by the additional precautions listed above to allow the device to be used in the elements. And remember when the weather starts to cool off in the fall, it’s a good idea to bring your tv indoors to prevent damage from freezing temperatures.

You may also want to consider getting an anti-theft kit for your outdoor television if it will be located in an accessible area. These anti-theft devices use a steel cable to secure your television to the wall, reducing the likelihood of robbers attempting to steal it.
 

Are you sure your belonings are properly insured? If you have any questions, the staff at Morris Insurance Services will be glad to review your policy and make any needed recommendations. Give us a call today.