Outdoor TV Setup: 5 Tips for Installing a TV Outdoors

Getting Started

Imagine having friends and family over for the big game or movie night—on your outdoor patio or back deck! Before you mount any standard TV, you need to make a plan to set up the ultimate outdoor space.

Picking a high-quality outdoor tv is one step, but many decisions go into creating the perfect outdoor TV setup. Here are a few extra tips for creating the backyard home entertainment area of your dreams.

5 Tips for Installing a TV Outdoors

Pick an Appropriate Location
One essential factor to consider is where you want to place your outdoor TV setup. Find a few locations and determine whether they receive direct sunlight during certain hours of the day. Additionally, you may want to give your outdoor TV setup some distance from the pool or splash zones.
It's also important to consider your mounting height. You'll have to determine if you want viewers to be able to see the TV from multiple areas of your outdoor space. It's critical to mount an outdoor TV at least six feet above a fireplace or away from a grill to prevent possible heat damage. When you pick an outdoor tv location, it is essential to protect your TV against the elements. Even with an outdoor-rated TV, it's best to reduce exposure to prolong its life. Consider mounting it somewhere covered, like deep beneath a deck or pergola where the sun is limited. One extra tip is to face the TV north, if you can, so the sun is behind it. When you determine the best placement for your outdoor TV, consider how you wish to mount it. You can choose between:
- Existing Walls: If a wall on your deck or patio is sturdy enough, it can make an ideal place to hang an outdoor TV. The beauty of using an existing wall is that you don't need to build a new structure.
- Pole Mounted: Pole mounted outdoor TVs offer total freedom. You can choose the TV's location without being restricted to existing structures.
- Ceiling Mounted: Similar to the pole-mounted option, an outdoor TV can be mounted to the ceiling using a ceiling pole bracket. You've probably seen these at restaurants with outdoor seating. This mounting option offers prime viewing for large crowds.
Choose an Outdoor Rated TV
Many people make the mistake of using a standard TV in their outdoor entertainment area. Doing so will void a warranty immediately. You'll also most likely have to spend more money on replacing your TV when it eventually breaks down from exposure.
Instead, outdoor TV brands like SunBriteTV, Samsung, and Seura are designed especially for all-weather and outdoor environments. They are engineered with features such as extra-bright, non-glare LED panels. These types of TVs offer durable exterior frames made of high-impact resin or powder-coated aluminum to withstand rain, snow, dirt, pollen, and insects. In particular, SunBriteTV offers all-weather, outdoor-rated LED TVs with three series: Veranda, Signature, and Pro. Each series is designed with features to suit any outdoor environment and deliver superior brightness. Plus, they're capable of resisting harsh rain, dirt, insects, extreme temperatures, and UV rays. Seura also makes several models of LCD TVs, some of which are waterproof for viewing near a pool. Check out Abt's comprehensive TV Buying Guide to understand how to choose a television.

Shop Outdoor TV

Create a TV Cabinet Enclosure For Extra Protection
An outdoor TV setup is ideal with an outdoor-rated TV, but it helps to add some extra protection. Despite how well you cover your outdoor TV, a cabinet enclosure can help protect it from extreme weather conditions. Install your outdoor TV within a cabinet with caulked seams and weather-stripped perimeters to prevent exposure to moisture, cold air, and condensation. Additionally, keeping your TV behind closed and lockable doors can prevent vandalism or theft.
Choose Between a Wired or Wireless Cable Setup

When it comes to your outdoor cable setup, you have two options to choose from: wired or wireless. A wired installation is probably more reliable, but wireless cable options make your outdoor TV setup simpler and cleaner. If you opt for a wireless option, your cable company will usually offer a compact cable box that slip neatly behind a TV. If the wireless option is not possible through your provider, there are additional factors to keep in mind with a wired cable setup. You'll need to protect any loose wires with conduit or pipe coverings that are outdoor-rated to protect against the elements. Doing so will prevent the wires from wearing thin or cracking due to drying out from harsh weather. You can also find cables with a UV light-protective layer. Lastly, make sure you use a GFCI outlet for safety.
Add Speakers for Loud Volume Control
If you place a TV outside, you need the sound to carry. Instead of competing with surrounding noises and party guests, make sure your outdoor TV setup has a strong, full-sounding soundbar to amplify across the patio or lawn. Without a high-quality soundbar mounted below your outdoor TV, you might miss important TV moments muffled by the chatter and conversation of the crowd. Even better, go for a wireless soundbar!

Create a Cord-Free Entertainment Center

One way you can guarantee a cord-free entertainment center is to learn how to mount a TV on a wall. As you first set up your home entertainment system, along with the TV, stereo speakers and any cords, set yourself up for success from the beginning. That way, you can have a clutter-free and seamless style. For help mounting a TV, call us at 800-860-3577.