Many advise against mounting a TV above a fireplace for safety reasons, but you may be able to safely install one by properly planning and installation. By following a similar process and safety precautions that a professional would use to mount a TV above a fireplace, you may be able to turn it into a DIY project, saving you money and still allowing for an aesthetically pleasing and practical TV set up.
Safety precautions to consider
Electronics and heat do not go well together. Even if your TV is not directly exposed to flames or smoke, high temperatures from the fireplace can cause the TV to stop working properly and could potentially cause an electrical fire inside your home. For optimal safety, you should never install a TV above a fireplace if the wall reaches above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This not only increases the risk of an electrical fire, but it will also likely ruin any insurance policy you have on your TV.
Make sure the heat is deflected
The best way to ensure heat from your fireplace does not damage your television is by deflecting the heat away with a mantle, fireplace hood or alcove. A mantle is perhaps the easiest method, although many modern home designers are using an alcove to create a more aesthetically pleasing look. Regardless of your preferred method, the most important thing is to ensure the wall where your TV is never reaches 100 degrees.
Consider the aesthetics and structural layout
Once you have decided on the best method to protect your TV from excessive heat exposure, you can then shift your attention to the aesthetics and practicality of the TV placement. In doing so, consider how the TV will look from the furniture, taking into account potential glare from the windows and interior lighting and how much strain it puts on your neck while watching the TV. Also, consider asking how the TV looks to guests and how convenient it appears.
Preparing for the TV installation
The next step is to prepare for the TV installation. At this point, you should have decided on the TV barrier and precise location for the TV. You can now mark out where you want the TV placed, ensuring the TV is not so high that it causes you to strain your neck and not so low that it poses a safety hazard due to potential heat exposure. When in doubt, hiring a contractor for advice and assistance is encouraged.
How to safely and effectively install your TV
After the preparation is finished you can install the TV. Be sure to follow all manufacturer’s instructions if they are provided. If you plan to install yourself, take your time and follow the installation plan closely, ensuring you have all of the tools you need before you begin.
For the safest and most reliable results, consider hiring professional assistance. You may not need help with every step of the installation process, but hiring help for the parts you are less confident in can certainly help.
EXIT Realty Bob Lamb & Associates is Murfreesboro’s most innovative real estate team.
EXIT Realty Bob Lamb & Associates
2630 Memorial Blvd, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
(615) 896-5656