My outdoor sensor died after one rainstorm because I didn't seal it

Rainwater got into the housing and fried the circuit board (totally my fault). How do you prevent moisture issues on exterior installs?

4 comments

4 Comments

miller.rowan1mo ago

Does the Gore-Tex tape ever get clogged with dust or anything? I mean, seems like a tiny hole could still let gunk in over time.

the_simon19d ago

That garage story from @andrewreed is exactly why I'm paranoid. Dust finds a way into everything no matter how small the hole. You just have to plan on cleaning it out now and then.

andrewreed1mo ago

Back in 2020, I sealed a Raspberry Pi case with that tape for outdoor use. After a few months in a dusty garage, the tape DID get kinda gritty and less breathable. Totally feel your worry about gunk building up over time, it's a real thing. I found that blowing it out with compressed air every so often helps a LOT. But yeah, no seal is perfect, and dust is the enemy of everything.

kelly3851mo ago

Silicone sealant is good, but it can trap moisture inside if there's any humidity left. I learned to put a small breathing hole covered with Gore-Tex tape to let pressure equalize. That stops condensation from building up and frying the board. Also, always use conformal coating on the circuit board itself for extra protection.