Outdoor Enclosures: How to Use a Regular TV Outside

< p > A true outdoor TV costs a fortune.An alternative is the "TV Storm Shell" or "The TV Shield." These are hard plastic weatherproof boxes that house a regular indoor TV.

< h2 > 1. How They Work < p > It is essentially a Tupperware container for your TV.It seals the TV against rain and bugs.The front controls are usually a clear plastic window.

< h2 > 2. The Heat Problem < p > Because the box is sealed, heat builds up inside.If you put this in direct sunlight, it becomes a greenhouse.Your TV will overheat and shut down. < br > Solution: Only use enclosures in fully shaded areas.Some enclosures come with fans to circulate air.

< h2 > 3. The Glare Problem < p > Cheap enclosures have plastic front windows that reflect < em > everything < /em>. It makes watching during the day difficult. You also lose brightness because looking through plastic dims the image.

4. Cost vs Benefit

< p > Enclosure($400) + Cheap TV($500) = $900. < br > True Outdoor TV = $3,000. < br > The enclosure is the budget winner, but it is bulky and ugly.

< h2 > Conclusion < p > If you are on a budget, an enclosure works.If you care about aesthetics, buy a SunBrite.