(480) 483-3399
In Arizona, our outdoor spaces are more than just an afterthought, they are extensions of our homes and offices. Whether it’s a high-brightness display on a corporate patio or a weather-rated soundscape for a hospitality venue, outdoor AV represents a significant investment.
However, the very elements that make outdoor gatherings so enjoyable: sun, breeze, and open air, are the primary enemies of electronic performance. To keep your system running at peak performance, you have to move beyond a standard indoor cleaning routine. Here is how the experts at Immedia recommend protecting and maintaining your outdoor technology.
In the desert, dust isn’t just a cosmetic issue; it’s a mechanical one. Fine particulates can clog ventilation fans and settle on internal circuit boards, leading to overheating and premature failure.
The Technique: At least once a month, use a can of compressed air to clear out the ventilation ports and heat sinks of your displays and amplifiers.
The Screen: Never use standard glass cleaner on an outdoor display. These screens often have specialized anti-reflective coatings. Instead, use a clean microfiber cloth slightly dampened with distilled water. Wipe in a gentle circular motion to avoid "scouring" the surface with trapped dust particles.
Even "weather-proof" equipment has its limits when the Scottsdale sun hits triple digits. Heat is the single most common cause of outdoor equipment failure.
Active Airflow: If your equipment is housed in an outdoor enclosure or kiosk, check that the integrated fans are spinning freely. A failed $20 fan can lead to a $5,000 panel failure.
Shade is Your Friend: If your display isn't under a permanent overhang, consider utilizing a custom-fit, breathable equipment cover during the peak heat hours of the day or when the system isn't in use. This doesn't just block UV rays; it prevents "heat soak" from direct sunlight.
Outdoor environments are prone to moisture, whether from monsoon rains or morning dew and humidity. This leads to oxidation on metal contact points.
Seal the Deal: Ensure all cable entry points are sealed with weather-tight grommets or silicone gaskets.
Terminal Care: Once a season, inspect your speaker wire terminations. If you see signs of green or white "crust" (oxidation), it’s time to trim the wire and re-terminate the connection. Applying a small amount of dielectric grease can provide an extra barrier against moisture.
Even if you aren't using your outdoor theater during the hottest or coldest months, the equipment is still "working" to survive the environment. We recommend a comprehensive Quarterly Health Check:
Check for "Critters": Insects and small rodents love the warmth generated by power supplies. Ensure no nests are blocking your equipment's airflow.
Software Updates: Outdoor gear often relies on robust network connections. Ensure your firmware is updated to the latest version to maintain efficient power management.
At Immedia, we don't just install technology; we ensure it lasts. Outdoor AV requires a higher level of "Quality and Service", two of our core value propositions. If your outdoor system hasn't had a professional tuning or cleaning in over a year, it may be operating at a deficit.
