Installing an outdoor TV can seem like a daunting task, but with the right planning and preparation, it can be a straightforward DIY project. An outdoor TV system allows you to enjoy movies, TV shows, and sports outside on your patio or deck. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn everything you need to know about installing an outdoor TV the right way.
What to Consider Before Installing an Outdoor TV
Before you begin the installation process, there are some important factors to consider that will impact your outdoor TV setup. Thinking through these elements ahead of time will ensure your outdoor TV experience is everything you want it to be.
Climate and Weather
The climate and weather in your area are crucial considerations when installing an outdoor TV. Areas with high humidity, constant rain, snow, extreme heat or cold temperatures may not be ideal for an outdoor TV system. You’ll need to choose a TV and mounting equipment specifically rated for outdoor, all-weather use. Consider how you’ll protect connections from moisture.
Placement and Viewing Angles
Determine the optimal placement for the outdoor TV based on seating areas, sunlight/glare, and viewing angles. Wall mounts allow flexibility in adjusting the angle as needed. You’ll want to optimize visibility without sun interference.
TV Size
Outdoor spaces usually require a larger screen size than typical indoor TVs. To calculate the appropriate size, measure the viewing distance and determine the best screen size for your space. Aim for about an 18-degree viewing angle for the optimum experience.
Sound System
Factor in how you’ll provide audio for your outdoor entertainment system. While some outdoor TVs have built-in speakers, they usually don’t provide sufficient sound quality and volume on their own. Consider wiring speakers or installing a wireless soundbar system.
Power Source
You’ll need a grounded electrical outlet to plug in and power your outdoor TV. If there’s not an outlet nearby, you may need to hire an electrician to install one. Use extension cords rated for outdoor use if needed.
Cables and Wiring
For a clean setup, you’ll want to bury and conceal cables running to your outdoor TV. Consider where you’ll route and hide any wiring before mounting the TV. Outdoor-rated cables are available to withstand the elements.
Choosing an Outdoor TV
When selecting an outdoor TV, look for models designed specifically for outdoor use. They feature heavy-duty casings to protect against moisture, dust, insects, and temperature extremes. Key factors to consider include:
Weatherproof TV Enclosure
A weatherproof TV enclosure is a must for outdoor conditions. Look for full enclosure rather than a partial rear cover. Marine grade aluminum housing provides durability and rust resistance. Make sure all ports and connections seal tightly.
Brightness and Glare Handling
Outdoor TVs need to be brighter with anti-glare technology to combat sunlight interference. High nits/brightness and wider viewing angles improve daytime visibility. Direct LED backlighting also enhances brightness.
HDR Capability
High dynamic range (HDR) boosts contrast for sharper, more vivid images that stand out on an outdoor TV. This enhances detail in bright and dark scenes. Look for HDR10, HLG HDR, and Dolby Vision standards.
Refresh Rate
A higher refresh rate like 120Hz provides smoother motion clarity for fast action scenes and sports. This improves the outdoor viewing experience.
Smart TV Functions
Many outdoor TVs come equipped with smart platforms like webOS, Roku TV, or Android TV built-in. These give you access to streaming apps and connected services for added functionality.
Audio Output Options
Check that the outdoor TV offers sufficient ports and wireless connectivity options to support your planned audio setup. This includes HDMI ARC, optical output, Bluetooth, etc.
TV Size, Resolution, and Ports
Consider the right display size and 4K resolution for your space. Verify the outdoor TV has enough HDMI inputs and USB ports for your connected media players, game systems, and other devices.
Warranty Coverage
Look for outdoor TVs backed by at least a 1-year warranty. Multi-year warranties added protection are ideal, as outdoor TVs face harsher conditions.
How to Mount an Outdoor TV
Choosing the optimal placement and proper mounting equipment is key to a successful outdoor TV installation. Follow these tips for securely mounting your outdoor TV in any environment:
Select the Right Mount
Outdoor TV mounts need to be weather and corrosion resistant. Look for mounts made from powder-coated aluminum or galvanized steel. Universal mounts adjust to fit most TV sizes and brands. Consider articulating arms for adjusting viewing angles.
Determine Height and Viewing Angle
Mount the TV at eye level for comfortable viewing. LED screens can be viewed from wider angles but still aim for a direct line of sight. Tilt downwards slightly to avoid glare. Use a mount with articulating arms to fine-tune height and angles later if needed.
Pick a Sturdy Mounting Surface
Mount the TV directly to framing studs on a sturdy wall or use a freestanding pole mount secured in concrete. Weatherproof outdoor mounting boxes provide added stability and conceal connections. Make sure the surface meets the mount’s weight requirements.
Use the Right Mounting Hardware
Use weather-resistant mounting bolts designed to anchor the mount and TV securely. Apply silicone sealant around screw holes. Make sure all cables enter via weather sealed connections.
Consider Hiring a Professional
If mounting on masonry or high walls, or if you want hidden cabling, it may be wise to hire a professional installer. They have the right equipment and expertise for a complex outdoor TV mounting job.
How to Install an Outdoor TV on a Wall
Wall mounting provides a clean, space-saving installation for your outdoor TV. Here are the step-by-step instructions for installing an outdoor-rated TV on a wall:
Step 1: Choose an Outdoor-Rated Wall Mount
Select an articulating wall mount rated for outdoor use that suits your TV size. Make sure it’s made of weather-resistant material like powder-coated aluminum.
Step 2: Locate Wall Studs
Find the studs in the wall where you want to install the TV using a stud finder. Mark their locations. The mount must be anchored into the wall studs for security.
Step 3: Mark Holes for the Wall Plate
Hold the wall plate from the mount up against the wall over the studs. Level it and mark the hole locations for the lag bolts.
Step 4: Drill Pilot Holes
Use a power drill to drill pilot holes into the studs at the marked locations. The holes should be slightly smaller than the lag bolts.
Step 5: Secure the Wall Plate
Align the wall plate with the pilot holes and use a socket wrench to drive the provided lag bolts through the plate and into the wall studs. Tighten the bolts securely.
Step 6: Attach the TV Brackets
Attach the TV mounting brackets to the back of the TV according to the mount instructions. Make sure to use the correct size hardware.
Step 7: Mount the TV
Lift the TV and fit the bracket arms over the wall plate. Slide down to lock it into place. Add any anti-theft screws or locks to secure the TV.
Step 8: Run Cables
Route and conceal any cables from nearby outlets to the TV location. Use exterior-rated cables and make weather-sealed connections.
Step 9: Seal Holes and Gaps
Apply silicone sealant around the mounting holes and cable holes. Seal any gaps in the TV housing and connections to prevent moisture and pests.
Step 10: Adjust the TV Angle
Tilt and swivel the TV to the optimal viewing angle. Make final adjustments and lock it into place. Enjoy your new outdoor entertainment system!
How to Mount an Outdoor TV on a Pole
For freestanding placement in your yard or patio, pole mounting provides flexible positioning for your outdoor TV. Follow these guidelines for proper installation:
Choose an Outdoor Pole Mount
Select a pole mount with a heavy, weighted base for stability and galvanized steel or aluminum pole that withstands weather conditions. Pick a pole height and TV mount arm that suits your needs.
Prepare the Site
Dig a hole 24-30 inches deep and about three times the width of the base. Place crushed gravel into the hole to allow drainage. It should be deep enough to anchor the base below the frost line in colder climates.
Install the Pole
Place the mount pole base into the hole and hold it plumb. Pour concrete into the hole surrounding the base. Level it and allow the concrete to fully cure according to manufacturer directions before use.
Attach the TV Mount Arm
If the mount arm doesn’t come pre-attached, bolt it onto the top of the pole according to the included hardware and instructions. Secure tightly with a wrench.
Mount the TV
Attach your outdoor TV’s mounting bracket to the back of the TV following the mount directions. Lift up the TV and mount it onto the arm so it slides securely into place.
Hide Cables
Run cables inside the pole and under the base where possible to conceal them. Use weatherproof conduit or piping if needed to protect connections.
Adjust the TV Position
Tilt and swivel the outdoor TV to the desired angle for optimal viewing. Adjust the height by sliding the mount arm up or down as needed. Lock it securely when finished.
How to Install Power and Cables for an Outdoor TV
Setting up power and cabling properly helps protect your connections and maintain signal strength for the outdoor TV. Here are tips to do it right:
Use an Outdoor-Rated Power Cord
Outdoor TVs come with a hardened power cable for outdoor use. If using an extension cord, choose one rated for outdoor use and with sufficient wattage capacity.
Install a Weatherproof Outlet Box
Hire an electrician to install a protected in-use cover over the outdoor outlet the TV will plug into. Or install a weatherproof outdoor outlet box if needed.
Use Surge Protection
Connect the TV power cord to a heavy-duty surge protector to safeguard from power spikes. Choose an outdoor-rated surge protector designed for all weather conditions.
Conceal Wiring in the Wall
For a clean look, hire an electrician to wire connection points and conceal cables behind the mount inside the wall. Use weatherproof conduit to feed cables directly through the wall.
Bury Cables Underground
For pole mounts or distant power sources, bury cables underground using PVC conduit and waterproof connectors to shield wiring. This provides stable protection.
Use Coaxial Sealant
Apply weatherproof silicone sealant around any coaxial cable connections to prevent moisture seepage into the cables or ports that could impact signals.
Connect Devices with HDMI
Where possible, use HDMI cables to connect media players, gaming systems, and cable/satellite boxes. HDMI carries both audio and video signals.
Maintain Taut Connections
Keep cables neat, tight, and off the ground. Use cable ties and tubing to prevent sagging and maintain taught, orderly connections less susceptible to weather damage.
Additional Tips and Recommendations
Keep these additional tips in mind throughout the installation and use of your outdoor TV system:
- When wall mounting, don’t rely solely on drywall anchors – always mount directly onto studs for security.
- Ensure the mount is level and provides proper support for the TV weight when installed.
- Consider recessing the mount and TV into a weatherproof housing for extra security.
- Use drip loops on cables to prevent water from running down wires and entering connections.
- Keep an eye out for insects and pests that may try to enter or clog vents in the TV enclosure.
- Point the screen away from direct sun exposure to minimize glare from sunlight.
- Clean the outer housing regularly with microfiber cloths to remove dirt and grime buildup.
- Disconnect and remove the TV if very high winds, hailstorms, or tornado warnings occur in your area.
- Consider hiring a professional AV installer if you want a built-in or complex outdoor TV setup.
With the right groundwork and installation process, you can install an outdoor TV successfully on your own. Follow the tips in this guide during planning, setup, and usage to get the most enjoyment from your outdoor entertainment system. Careful weatherproofing and mounting will keep your outdoor TV working and looking great for years. Consult an expert if you need help addressing more complex needs for your unique outdoor space.
Frequently Asked Questions about Installing Outdoor TVs
What size outdoor TV do I need?
The recommended outdoor TV size depends on your viewing distance. Measure the distance from your typical seating area to where the TV will be mounted. The ideal outdoor TV size correlates to a 30-40 degree viewing angle. Refer to a viewing distance chart to find the suggested TV size for your space.
How do I protect my outdoor TV from weather?
Choose an outdoor TV with a weatherproof, anti-corrosion housing sealed tightly to prevent moisture ingress. Look for full enclosures rather than partial back covers. Use weatherproof cables and connections, and apply sealant around ports and mounts. Aim for optimal placement under a covered patio or eave.
Does outdoor TV placement matter?
Yes, placement impacts visibility. Position it where it will be shaded from direct sunlight to prevent glare. Mount at eye level about 5-6 feet high for comfortable viewing. Angle the screen based on the seating area to reduce glare and eyestrain.
What is the best way to mount an outdoor TV?
Wall mounting centered on studs or posts is the most secure installation. For freestanding placement, use a heavy pole mount secured in concrete. Choose weatherproof mounts made of galvanized steel or powder-coated aluminum that won’t rust.
Can I use a regular TV outdoors?
No, regular TVs are not sealed against moisture and temperature extremes. They can easily be damaged and fail if used outside. Always choose an outdoor-rated TV designed specifically for outdoor spaces. Look for durable, weatherproof housings.
How do I run power to my outdoor TV?
Use an outdoor-rated grounded power cord to plug into a GFCI outlet with an in-use weatherproof cover. Have an electrician install an outlet near the TV if needed. Bury cables in PVC conduit underground as necessary. Use outdoor cable staples/tidy to avoid loose cables on the ground.
What cables should I use for outdoor TV connection?
Use coaxial cables designed for outdoor use when running antenna, cable, or satellite connections to the TV. For device connections, HDMI cables work well and avoid signal loss over distance. Look for cables rated as outdoor/UV/water/mold resistant.
Do I need to seal outdoor TV connections?
Yes, sealing connections helps prevent moisture damage. Apply exterior-grade silicone sealant around any outdoor coaxial cable connections and ports on the TV. If you had to drill any holes for cables, fill them with weatherproof caulking too.
How often do I need to service an outdoor TV?
An annual service check is recommended. Wipe down the outer housing, clean ventilation grills, check waterproof seals for gaps, inspect cables for damage, and test connections to catch any areas needing repair. This helps maximize the TV’s longevity in outdoor conditions.
Conclusion
Installing an outdoor TV involves important considerations like selecting weatherproof equipment, mounting the TV securely, and protecting connections from the elements. Following the instructions in this guide will allow you to set up an outdoor TV properly to enjoy your favorite entertainment outside. Plan ahead to choose the right display size, placement, and mounting method. Set up adequate power access, weatherproof cables, and seal all ports. Maintain your outdoor TV for lasting performance. With strategic planning and preparation, installing an outdoor TV can be an achievable DIY project resulting in the ultimate outdoor entertainment experience.