What you should know before installing the TV above the fireplace
Installing a TV above the fireplace has been considered as an attractive trend in interior decoration for years. This combination creates a cozy and integrated space; But can the beauty of the appearance overcome the performance and longevity of the TV? Do not doubt that heat, smoke and high altitude are all threats to electronic devices. In this article, we will carefully examine the advantages and disadvantages of this method and provide solutions to reduce possible damages.
Advantages and disadvantages of installing a TV above the fireplace
Advantages:
- Hiding wires and cables behind the fireplace
- Occupying less space than the room
- Less worry about damage if the fireplace temperature is low
Disadvantages:
- High height of TV and inappropriate viewing angle
- Distraction from the flames of the fireplace while watching a movie
- The negative effect of fireplace heat on electrical appliances
- Reducing the useful life of the TV due to heat and smoke
How to prevent damage to the TV in front of the fireplace
Although new TVs and monitors produce less heat than old cathode TVs. And the manufacturers try to keep these devices cool and have installed elements for cooling inside them; However, exposing the TV to heat causes its performance to malfunction.
Control the temperature
Therefore, to install the TV above the fireplace, it is important that the temperature of the installation location does not exceed the permissible limit because excessive heat will reduce the life of the TV and invalidate the warranty.
To check the temperature, install a thermometer on the wall above the fireplace and turn on the fireplace. After an hour, compare the temperature to the maximum safe temperature listed in the manual. If the temperature is higher than the limit, avoid installing the TV above the fireplace. Usually, this temperature should be around 40 degrees Celsius.
Use a ledge or mantel
On the other hand, use a ledge or mantel to protect the TV from the heat of the fireplace. The mantle diverts the flow of hot air and prevents heat from reaching the TV directly. The standard depth of the mantle is between 15 and 30 cm. If you use a gas fireplace, choose a fireplace with a fan to direct the heat outside.
Points to follow when installing the TV above the fireplace
To make the work result more favorable, the following will be useful:
Attention to the right viewing angle of the TV above the fireplace
The height of the TV should be at the viewer’s eye level. If the fireplace has a mantel, it will prevent this adjustment. To test, make a paper the size of the TV and stick it in the desired place; Then sit on the sofa and look at the paper. If you feel discomfort or neck pain, change the installation location. You can also buy an adjustable wall mount to get a better viewing angle.
Paying attention to the proportion of the size of the TV with the fireplace
The TV above the fireplace is beautiful when its size matches the width of the fireplace. The best option is a TV that is two-thirds to three-quarters of the width of the fireplace. Also, the size of TVs is calculated based on their diameter. Keep in mind that if you have high ceilings, a bigger TV; It fills up more vertical space, and if you sit close to the fireplace, a smaller TV is better.
The importance of hiding wires and cables
When installing the TV above the fireplace, pay attention to the power source and how to hide the wires. If there is no power outlet nearby, seek help from an electrician. You can use ducts or cable covers to hide the wires and choose colors that match the wall and decoration. Also, cable management boxes are useful for hiding wires behind the TV. The TV above the fireplace is the focal point of the room, so hide the wires for a neater look.
Attention to the appropriate height for the TV above the fireplace
To install the TV above the fireplace, it is better that the center of the screen is less than 178 cm from the ground. This suitable height helps to prevent neck injury while watching TV. If the mantel (mantel) is too high, it is better to install the TV in another place or reduce the height of the mantel.
The presence of TV coordination with the environment in the decoration
A large black screen in the middle of the wall may not have an interesting effect. You can hide the TV in a ledge, wall recess or behind accordion doors. Using mechanized panels is also a good option to show or hide the TV with the touch of a button. The TV frame and mechanized panels that match the decor of the room create a more unified look. You can also use mirror panels to hide the TV. Placing bookshelves around the fireplace also gives a special beauty to the space.
Installing TV above wood fireplaces
As you know, wood-fired fireplaces produce a lot of heat and have smoke problems. The top of these fireplaces is not a good place to install a TV, because the heat and smoke will ruin the TV. If you want to mount the TV above a wood-burning fireplace, install a ledge under the TV to deflect smoke and heat, or place the TV in a wall recess for protection.
Installing a TV near the stove
The TV should not be near heat sources such as heaters, because too much heat will damage its parts. Heaters can reach temperatures of 109°C, while TVs are damaged and shut down at temperatures over 51°C.
If you have to install the TV above the heater, it is necessary to observe the following:
- Proper distance: at least 15 cm between the TV and the heater and 10 cm between the TV and the wall for air flow.
- Maximum temperature: Make sure the TV can withstand temperatures up to 50 degrees Celsius.
- Adjustable wall mount: to increase airflow and reduce heat.
- Fan: To cool the TV.
- Heating cover: to direct the heat outside.
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