LCD tv's

[Manny]

For those of you that have LCD televisions in colder climates - do you leave them on the boat or take them home for the winter? If left on the boat, has any degradation in image quality or other issues been noted?
The reason I ask is the manual for my little Magnavox states that the television should not be exposed to freezing temps. I normally take it home in the winter but it's pain to reinstall.
I guess this question also could apply to chartplotters, gps units, fishfinders, etc...

Thanks,

Manny

 

[sailingdog]

LCD TVs usually have two temperature ranges listed in their manuals. One is the operating temperature range, and this is usually much narrower than the second, storage temperature range.

While the LCD can freeze, it will generally not be harmed if allowed to thaw out before use. Most LCDs can be stored in temperatures as low as -40˚F or up to 110˚F before being damaged, but this range varies by screen chemistry/manufacturer, and YMMV.

However, please remember that the screen needs to "thaw" to "room temperature" before being used. Also, remember that bringing in any electronics from a cold storage environment to a warm "indoor" environment may cause water to condense out onto the electronics and precautions should be taken to prevent or protect the electronics from condensation. Usually, wrapping the item in a plastic bag and sealing it is sufficient protection.