The Dr. Dish basketball shooting machine is built to withstand a wide range of temperatures during storage, so hot or cold conditions generally aren’t a major concern. However, here are a few key points to keep in mind to ensure optimal performance.
Temperature and Humidity
- Normal Storage: Cold or warm storage environments are perfectly fine.
- Operating After a Quick Temperature Change: Avoid drastic temperature changes. For example, if the machine moves rapidly from a cold environment (e.g., 50°F in a basement) to a hot, humid one (e.g., 90°F outdoors). This can cause condensation, which might affect performance or, in rare cases, lead to failure. While highly unlikely, this is similar to the impact of rain exposure (though far less severe).
Outdoor Storage:
Storing your machine outdoors, especially without protection or in extreme temperatures is not advised for these reasons:
- Sun Damage: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can degrade plastics, such as the shrouds, net, and rubber bumpers. If outdoor storage is unavoidable, ensure the machine is protected in a shed, structure, or heavy-duty cover that blocks sunlight completely.
- Animal Intrusion: The machine isn’t mouse-proof, and rodents can chew cables or nest inside.
- Temperature and Humidity Cycles: Repeated exposure to extreme changes in temperature and humidity can accelerate rust on metal components, reducing the machine’s lifespan.
- Rain: Direct rain exposure is the worst-case scenario and should always be avoided.
To keep your machine performing like new, store it indoors whenever possible and protect it from harsh outdoor conditions.
We also offer a dust and debris cover for purchase, but note that it does not protect from rain since splash up from the ground can reach the machine's interior.