Outdoor-rated lights still need a sound installation. After rain or a storm, a quick inspection can catch a loose connector, a damaged cable, or a connection that has ended up in a puddle.
Start with power disconnected
Do not open or disconnect wet electrical equipment while it is energized. Disconnect power from a dry, safe location before inspecting affected connections. Keep anything with water inside, damaged insulation, or visible corrosion out of service until the problem is addressed.
Check the whole connection path. The rating of a pixel does not automatically cover an exposed wire end, a repair splice, or every part of the enclosure around its controller.
Walk the cable routes
- Look for connections sitting in standing water, wet grass, or collected debris.
- Inspect accessible connector housings, cable jackets, and repair joints for damage.
- Check that required connector seals are present, clean, and correctly seated.
- Check that cables are supported and are not pulling against their connections.
- Look for displaced enclosure covers, damaged cable entries, or signs of moisture inside.
Fix the cause before reconnecting
Drying a connection is only part of the repair if its seal is missing or its jacket is damaged. Replace damaged parts and restore the intended weather protection before returning them to use.
Follow the enclosure manufacturer's guidance for drainage, ventilation, and condensation. Sealing every opening can trap moisture or interfere with cooling. Once the installation is dry, sound, and properly assembled, test the affected section before running the full show. A hose test is not needed to find problems.
Mattos tip: Inspect after real weather, correct the cause, and retest the affected section before showtime.
Keep learning
Read the full Mattos guide · Browse all Tips and Tricks
Technical references
Adapted from the Mattos Designs lighting-tip series. Need help with your setup? Email Support@Mattosdesigns.com with your equipment details.
