Support Hub - How to clean an outdoor LED display

Topic

  • How to identify that the visual issue stems from dirt and buildup on the display face?
  • Identify what level of cleaning is necessary.
  • Related maintenance topics.

Environment

This article is a single resource for capturing common cleaning topics for all LED outdoor displays, including
Galaxy®, HD-X, ProAd®, ProStar®, DVX, RTX, DBN, DVN, RTN, DB-4xxx, JVX and GalaxyPro® displays. 

Steps

How to identify that the visual issue stems from dirt and buildup on the display face

Any of these symptoms can indicate that the visual issue stems from dirt and buildup on the display face:

  • The entire display appears dull, less saturated and less bright.
  • Three or four rows of LEDs around the perimeter of the module look darker than the rest of the LEDs, resulting in black lines around each module. When the module is moved to another location, the dark pattern follows the module.
    DarkLines2.jpg
  • Excess coating/gel potting is attached to the LEDs in the center of the module, causing dark spots on center of the modules.  (Issue may be more present when viewing at an angle). When the module is moved to another location the dark spot follows the module.
    darkspots.jpg

Level of cleaning

Basic Cleaning

For regular face cleaning of any LED display, please follow the guide Face Cleaning LED Matrix Displays (ED-14158). This document outlines wet and dry-cleaning methods, as well as a cleaning method for module masks using 70% or 95% isopropyl alcohol.

To Eliminate Dark Areas on Antaios Modules Due to Excess Coating

For on-site procedure to eliminate dark areas on Antaios modules, please follow the Quick Guide DD2641273.

Detailed Cleaning

If you are experiencing more severe visual issues due to dirt buildup, and the regular cleaning method does not suffice, follow Display has dark lines around the perimeter of the module causing a grid pattern on the display face

Specialized Cleaning

After trying the cleaning methods listed above, and you are still experiencing visual issues due to dirt and buildup on the display face, we recommend contacting your Daktronics service coordinator or your local sign company, as they can offer more specialized and thorough cleaning options. 

Related Maintenance Resources

KB ID: DD4046788


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