Outdoor TV

Electronics Complete an Outdoor Room

Depending on your climate, you may be able to store an ordinary flat-panel LCD TV in a rainproof cabinet in your outdoor living room. (This cabinet was sized to allow proper air circulation around the unit; it includes the necessary ground fault circuit interrupter.)

For harsher climates, manufacturers offer outdoor LCD TVs with weatherproof casing and built-in heating and cooling systems that protect the electronics used in outdoor rooms. For those, expect to pay $3,000-$5,000, depending on screen size. Alternately, movie-lovers can combine a large pull-down screen that stays on a porch or covered patio with a front projection TV, which works like a movie projector and can be wheeled inside when not in use. Take your popcorn out on the deck and enjoy your outdoor movie screen. Either way, consider sun-glare issues when positioning any outdoor screen.

For satisfying sound, install high-quality outdoor speakers; not only are they made to withstand the elements, but the acoustics are designed especially for outdoor environments. You'll appreciate the quality of the outdoor speakers when the crickets try to supply the soundtrack to your favorite movie.