Most Christmas projection shows run every night from late November into January. That is six or seven weeks of rain, dew, frost, wind and the occasional raccoon. Projectors are built for living rooms, so leaving one on the lawn unprotected is the quickest way to end your show early.
What can go wrong outdoors
- Moisture: rain, sprinklers, dew and melting frost.
- Heat: a sealed plastic box with no airflow can cook a projector, even on a cold night.
- Debris and animals: leaves, dust, insects and curious pets block vents and lenses.
- Bumps and knocks: a projector on a stand can be moved by wind or a passing dog, which ruins your mapping alignment.
Why a proper projector enclosure
A projector enclosure is built around the projector: a window for the lens, a path for air in and out, room for cables, and a secure base so the image stays lined up. A storage tub or a cardboard box does none of that.
Homeline: for homeowners in milder climates
Our Homeline projector enclosure is fan-cooled and designed for home projection shows. It keeps weather and debris off the projector while moving air through it, which suits Christmas displays in milder winter climates. Every enclosure has a 1-year warranty, and we check the fit for your projector model before you order.
Defender: for wet, freezing or coastal sites
If your show runs through long stretches of freezing rain, heavy humidity or salt air, look at the climate-controlled Defender. It offers IP66-equivalent protection against dust and powerful water jets and comes in sizes from Small (500 W of cooling) to Extra Large (4,500 W).
Christmas offer · only 20 available
Homeline projector enclosure: $799. Fan-cooled, a 1-year warranty, and a fit check for your projector model before you order. Enclosure only; while the 20 last.
Placement tips
- Set the enclosure on a stable, level base off the ground, away from puddles and sprinkler heads.
- Keep vents clear of plants, snow and holiday decorations.
- Point the lens slightly down if you can, so rain runs off rather than across it.
- Lock or secure the enclosure if it is visible from the street.
Power safety
- Use outdoor-rated cords and a GFCI-protected outlet.
- Keep plugs and connectors off the ground and covered.
- Check connections after storms or heavy frost.
Don’t forget the windows
Once the projector is protected, the biggest upgrade is usually the windows. Window Mapping Film on the outside of the glass catches projected light so the windows become part of the picture instead of dark gaps.
Get a fit check
Send us your projector make and model and where it will sit. Contact us or call 888-631-5880.
More reading: Christmas house projection mapping guide · Choosing a residential projector enclosure · 10-step Christmas projector checklist
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