Has it ever happened to you that your backyard party plans were ruined by the weather? It’s a nice sunny day, your music is playing, your projector is set up outside and then the rain starts. Suddenly, all your outdoor entertainment plans are in jeopardy.
If you’ve experienced this or just want to stop worrying about rain, you’re not the only one. I decided this summer to address this challenge by buying weatherproof electronics for my backyard setup. The result? You can enjoy music, movies and games without stress, even if the weather isn’t cooperating.
I’ll explain what helped me and give advice on picking weatherproof electronics to make your outdoor area a place you can enjoy all year.
Why Weatherproof Electronics Are a Game-Changer
It turned out that after years of always covering my outdoor speakers and moving my projectors inside at the first hint of rain, I learned that the right weatherproof electronics could make everything easier.
We all know how unpredictable the weather can be. One second, you’re comfortable watching a movie outside, but the next, a bit of rain can mess up your electronics. After reading a bit and making some wise buys, I realized that weatherproof electronics make a big difference for outdoor entertainment.
What Exactly Is Weatherproof Electronics?
Essentially, weatherproof electronics are built to resist rain, humidity, dust and temperatures that can be too high or too low. When you’re choosing electronics for your backyard, it’s essential to check their IP (Ingress Protection) rating, which indicates how resistant the device is to water and dust. I realized it myself when I bought an outdoor speaker that wasn’t able to handle a little rain. Now, I know better!
Choosing the Right Outdoor Speakers
I’ll tell you how it worked for me: I started by selecting the right speakers which made my backyard setup much more worry-free. I assumed any waterproof speaker would work, but I found out there’s more to think about.
I required a speaker that could work in heavy rain as well as in the strong heat of the afternoon. After trying a few different speakers, I ended up with a JBL Flip 5. This little guy boasts an IPX7 rating, which means it can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes — no need to panic if it starts raining during your backyard party!
Key Features to Look For:
- Check the IP rating and make sure it’s IPX7 or better for water resistance.
- You should be able to use an outdoor speaker for several hours, especially if you’re hosting a long outdoor event.
- Sound Quality: You want clear, powerful sound. You’ll be glad you spent on a speaker that can still produce clear sound despite the wind.
- Shockproofing is a good feature if you’re prone to knocking things down.
How to Pick an Outdoor Projector That Will Work in All Weather
When I got a quality speaker system, I started looking into outdoor projectors. At first, I didn’t even know outdoor projectors existed! I assumed any projector would do — until I found out that some projectors are better than others.
I wanted to get one that could be used outside and still give me a bright enough display for daytime movie watching. After reviewing countless products and reading many reviews, I decided to get the Epson EF-100. It’s waterproof and it also has a very bright display, making it perfect for use when the sun is still out.
Why I Chose the Epson EF-100:
- The projector is designed to resist light water, so it’s suitable for outdoor events in the rain or at backyard barbecues.
- Because the projector is rated at 2,000 lumens, it can be used in bright daylight, so your outdoor movies won’t be affected by the sun.
- It’s simple to reposition the screen because it’s light and easy to carry.
How to Keep Everything Powered: Solar-Powered Chargers
Now, here’s a quick solution I didn’t realize I needed: solar-powered chargers. If you’re planning a whole day of fun in your backyard, you should have a method to charge your weatherproof electronics. Enter solar chargers. You can rely on these devices in outdoor areas, as they use sunlight to keep your devices charged all the time.
I have the Anker PowerCore Solar which can store a huge 26,800 mAh of power. It keeps my outdoor speakers and my phone charged all day during a movie marathon or while I’m outside.
Benefits of Solar-Powered Chargers:
- Because they use solar energy, you won’t have to worry about connecting them to an outlet.
- You can just put them outside in the sun during the day and they’ll charge your devices.
- You can bring them with you anywhere and you won’t have to look for an outlet.
How to Keep Your Outdoor Electronics Safe and Lasting
Here’s something I didn’t think about until after the first storm: maintaining your outdoor electronics is just as important as choosing the right ones. Weatherproof doesn’t mean a product is completely unbreakable. I found out that leaving my devices out in the weather can reduce their useful life.
Now, I make sure to follow the right steps to protect my outdoor setup. If you purchase weatherproof electronics, you can follow a few rules to help them last.
3 Key Maintenance Tips:
- When you aren’t using them, put weatherproof covers over your electronics. A few seconds is all it takes and it helps your pet live longer.
- It’s important to clean your devices often because dust, dirt and moisture can lead to damage. Clean your devices at least once a month.
- If there’s a storm coming, it’s a good idea to move your devices inside or to a place that’s protected. It’s an extra thing you can do to avoid a lot of stress later.
Best Weatherproof Electronics for Your Backyard Entertainment
I’ve put together a list of the best products I’ve used and think you should try for your backyard setup:
| Device | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| JBL Flip 5 | IPX7 waterproof, 12-hour battery life, portable | $129 |
| Epson EF-100 Projector | 2,000 lumens brightness, IPX4 water resistance | $999 |
| Anker PowerCore Solar | 26,800 mAh capacity, solar charging, portable | $99 |
Final Thoughts: How to Enjoy Stress-Free Outdoor Entertainment
At that point, I understood what I needed: waterproof electronics, a little upkeep and the right setup changed everything about my backyard entertainment. I don’t have to race to cover my gear whenever it rains and I no longer have to worry about my devices getting too hot in the sun.
Do you want to improve how you enjoy the outdoors? Pin this article if you’re planning to transform your backyard into a year-round hub for fun. And don’t forget to share your experiences in the comments! Have you used weatherproof electronics in your outdoor area or are you only just considering it? Let me know — I’d love to hear about your backyard adventures!
