Article

Keeping your outdoor kiosk cozy in the winter

The weather outside is frightful, and the kiosk is slowly dying, and since it has no place to go, let it snow, let it snow. Fortunately, there are a few ways to prevent your kiosk from the triple threat of snow, hail and ice this winter.

December 16, 2015

The weather outside is frightful, and your kiosk is slowly dying, and since it has no place to go, let it snow, let it snow. Outdoor kiosks are always at the mercy of the elements, and with winter upon us, it will soon face the triple threat of snow, hail and ice. However, there are several tactics to keep your kiosk warm during the winter. KioskMarketPlace talked with James Gregorie, director of digital marketing and business development at Swift-Protect LLC, to get some tips.

KMC:What are some challenges with outdoor kiosks during cold weather?

Gregorie: The colder the temperatures, the more difficult the installation. Additionally, snow, hail, and ice cause further problems especially when paired with high winds.

If the ice is melting during the day and refreezing at night, this can degrade metal work and poor welding. Water that seeps in the spaces and then freezes expands and slowly forces the metal apart in a process called frost wedging. Over time this can bend the metal and pop welds. Make sure that seams are welded properly as well as ground smooth.

Touchscreens can have a difficult time in cold weather. It is important to make sure your components are rated for, or below, expected lows.

Solar loading, a small-scale greenhouse effect which leads to overheating, is just as much of a problem in cold environments as it is in extreme heat. Avoid installation locations where the unit will be in direct sunlight, especially directly on the monitor.

KMC:What are some design principles to ensure proper operation in cold temperatures?

Gregorie:Weather stripping and sealing the unit is essential. If you can't keep moisture out it will result in condensation and/or frost on electronics which will wreak havoc.

A heater should be installed to keep the operating temperature in the proper range. The CPU will produce some heat which will help but it won’t be nearly enough if the temperatures are extreme.

Try to have the enclosure with as few crevasses as possible. This will reduce the opportunities for frost wedging.

KMC:Should manufacturers use certain types of hardware?

Gregorie:Manufacturers should always make sure that their hardware is rated for the environment. Most spec sheets will have an operating temperature range, and manufacturers should make sure they pay attention to this

Don't buy too much heater for the enclosure. While extreme cold can create problems, having a heater directly next to crucial components can cause just as much trouble. Consult with your hardware provider or kiosk manufacturer if you have questions.

Look for industrial-grade components. They are built to more rigorous standards and will last longer than commercial parts.

KMC:How do you counter snow and the resulting moisture when it melts?

Gregorie:A sloped top and reducing horizontal surfaces can make a big difference in snow buildup.

We use a high quality rubber gasketing over the "peel-and-stick" extruded foam tape. It lasts longer and ensures a better seal.