If you’re considering mounting a TV over your fireplace, you may want to reconsider due to several reasons. Firstly, depending on the type of fireplace you have, you could be exposing your electronics to excessive heat, which can cause damage that may not be easily repaired.
Another reason to avoid mounting your TV over your fireplace is the harsh viewing angle it can create, which can be uncomfortable. This may result in reduced image quality, which could affect your overall viewing experience. Additionally, mounting a TV over a fireplace can be difficult and time-consuming, especially when it comes to hiding cables and wires.
It’s also worth noting that there’s not usually power available above a fireplace, which means you may need to run new wiring to get the TV up and running.
Instead, take a step back and assess your space before making a decision. Consider the heat and environmental conditions that your TV will be exposed to, and think about alternative areas that may offer the same viewing angles. Ultimately, mounting a TV over a fireplace may not be the best idea, so it’s important to weigh the pros and cons carefully before proceeding.
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Excessive Heat
When it comes to mounting a TV over a fireplace, heat can be a significant concern. It’s crucial to consider how much heat your fireplace is giving off, particularly if you have a traditional wood-burning unit, which can emit a substantial amount of heat and potentially cause damage to your electronics.
There are several specific reasons why mounting a TV over a fireplace can be problematic due to heat. First, heat rises, which means that any electronics placed above a fireplace can be particularly susceptible to damage. Additionally, excessive heat can void your TV’s warranty and cause it to operate outside of its recommended temperature range.
To mitigate these risks, it’s common to see TVs over fireplaces blocked by a mantel or recessed into a wall, which can help prevent heat from reaching your electronics. However, if your TV is mounted above a fireplace in the wrong placement, you may still be at risk of heat damage.
It’s important to note that any heat damage is unlikely to be covered by your manufacturer’s warranty. This means that if your TV is damaged as a result of excessive heat, you will be responsible for any repair or replacement costs.
To avoid this potential expense, it’s essential to be mindful of the heat your fireplace produces and take steps to prevent it from damaging your electronics. Additionally, you should be aware of the proper operating temperatures for your specific TV, which can vary by brand.
For example, Samsung TVs typically have a recommended operating temperature range of 50F to 104F, while LG and Sony TVs can operate in temperatures ranging from 32F to 104F. These ranges highlight the fact that TVs are not designed to handle high levels of heat, even on hot summer days.
Harsh Viewing Angle
Viewing angle is an often-overlooked consideration when it comes to mounting a TV over a fireplace. LCD TVs, in particular, are designed to be viewed from a specific angle, as specified in the owner’s manual. This includes the optimal height, angle, and distance from the screen for the best viewing experience.
To achieve the optimum viewing conditions, it’s generally recommended to have the center of the screen at eye level when seated. However, this can be a challenge when mounting a TV over a fireplace. The elevated position of the TV can result in an uncomfortable viewing experience, which may cause neck or eye strain over time.
Another factor that impacts the viewing angle when mounting a TV over a fireplace is the height of the fireplace itself. When you factor in the need to mount the TV higher to protect it from heat, you may find that the viewing angle is less than ideal.
While this may not seem like a major issue at first, it can significantly affect your viewing experience in the long run. If you have ever sat in the front row of a movie theater, you may have experienced neck pain or discomfort from constantly tilting your head to view the screen.
Reduced Image Quality
To ensure optimal viewing experience of your TV, it is important to consider both the optimum viewing angles and distances. Your TV manufacturer should provide these specifications, which can be found in your user manual. Typically, a 1080P HD TV requires a distance of 83 inches while a 4K TV requires 39 inches due to their higher pixel density.
However, when mounting your TV above a fireplace, the usual viewing angle is disrupted, and the distance from the screen is likely to be further than eye level. This can result in poor image quality and discomfort from having to tilt your head to see the screen.
To mitigate these issues, a swivel mount such as the Mounting Dream TV Mount (on Amazon), can be used to reduce eye strain and improve image quality. By correcting the increased viewing angle with a mount, you can achieve a more comfortable viewing experience and ensure the best possible image quality.
Hard to Mount
Mounting a TV above a fireplace can be challenging, especially if the fireplace is made of hard, permanent materials like brick or cement. Before attempting to mount anything, it’s important to determine the type of material above the fireplace and to avoid damaging the ductwork behind it. Drilling into the ductwork could result in leaks and other serious issues.
Another challenge that may arise when mounting a TV above a fireplace is the difficulty of running wires and cables. This is because the design of the fireplace may not allow for wires to be easily routed.
In addition to these technical challenges, installing a TV above a fireplace can also be physically demanding. It involves working on a ladder to access components that are positioned high up, as well as mounting a bulky and expensive piece of equipment.
To ensure a successful installation, it’s important to carefully assess the feasibility of mounting a TV above your fireplace, taking into account the technical and physical challenges involved.
Nowhere to Hide Cables and Wires
Mounting a TV above a fireplace can be challenging not just in terms of the technical aspects, but also in finding space for all the equipment required. While a mantle may be present, the limited space on the top of the fireplace can make it difficult to accommodate all the necessary devices.
One option for resolving this issue is to use an entertainment center. These are designed to provide storage space for all the required devices in a neat and organized manner. If you want to ensure that your setup looks tidy and uncluttered, you may need to get creative in finding ways to store the equipment.
Without proper organization, the setup can quickly become messy, with hanging wires and cluttered equipment distracting from your viewing experience. Therefore, it is important to plan for adequate storage space before mounting the TV above the fireplace.
Lack of Power
Typically, the space above the fireplace is not the ideal location for electronics due to power constraints. In most cases, modern home builders do not provide sufficient outlets for electronics, leaving homeowners to deal with power supply issues.
If you are lucky enough to have access to an outlet, you may still face challenges. With just one outlet, you may have to be creative in managing your power supply. This is because you will need power for several devices, including the TV, cable box, streaming unit, DVD and Blu-ray players, and other sound equipment.
Even with two outlets, you may still fall short of the power requirements for your entertainment setup. In this case, a powerstrip (like this one on Amazon) may be a helpful solution to expand the number of outlets available. However, it is important to note that this can compromise the aesthetic appeal of the setup.
Tips for Above-Fireplace TVs
If you’re limited to placing your TV over the fireplace, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of the space. The first step is to assess the area so you can properly organize it. While this approach is primarily aesthetic, it’s important to be mindful of any wires that may be visible if you’re not careful.
It’s crucial to consider the type of fireplace you have before mounting a TV. Traditional wood-burning fireplaces are not recommended due to the potential risk of fire or heat damage to your electronics. Wood-burning units emit the highest and most chaotic levels of heat, making it nearly impossible to hang a TV over one without constant concern.
Gas fireplaces are also quite warm, though not as intense as wood-burning units. You might be able to mount a TV over a gas fireplace, but to ensure safety and prevent damage, it’s best to use an electric fireplace.
Electric fireplaces offer several advantages, including the ability to efficiently disperse heat and regulate temperature, along with less heat production, making them less of a fire hazard. Additionally, the location of the heat vents in electric fireplaces can be in places other than the top, providing greater flexibility in TV placement.
To enhance your viewing experience, use a swiveling tilt mount. This feature enables you to adjust the TV’s angle, providing the flexibility to watch comfortably regardless of the fireplace being in use.
Checking Your Space for Heat
Before mounting your TV above the fireplace, it’s crucial to determine the area’s temperature to assess potential damage risks. Even with an electric unit, this step is important. To check the temperature, follow these steps:
- Use an infrared non-contact thermometer (on Amazon) to measure the proposed area’s temperature while the fireplace is off, giving you a baseline temperature.
- Turn on your fireplace and wait for around 45 minutes to allow the heat to build up.
- Take another temperature reading.
- Consult your TV’s manual to check the recommended operating temperature and compare it to the area’s temperature.
If the area’s temperature rises above 100 degrees, it may be a sign that you should consider an alternative TV placement. While your TV may operate at higher temperatures, this could still cause long-term damage. Assessing the location’s temperature is an essential planning stage that should be completed first.
If mounting your TV above the fireplace is not feasible, it’s not recommended to proceed with the installation. Not only could this cause damage to your electronics, but it could also pose a fire hazard. Always prioritize safety, and remember that a visually appealing entertainment center is never worth risking your home or your life. However, if you’re in the market for an entertainment system, check out our list of the 8 best options.
Related Q&A
Why is it not recommended to mount a TV over a fireplace?
Mounting a TV over a fireplace can be problematic due to the high heat generated by the fire, which can damage the electronics of the TV.
What are some potential hazards of mounting a TV over a fireplace?
Some potential hazards of mounting a TV over a fireplace include damage to the TV, reduced viewing quality, and the risk of neck strain from looking up at the TV.
How does the heat from the fireplace affect the TV?
The heat from the fireplace can cause the TV to overheat, which can lead to permanent damage to the TV’s internal components and reduce its lifespan.
Can you prevent damage to the TV by using a heat shield?
While a heat shield can help protect the TV from heat damage, it is not a foolproof solution as it can still be difficult to control the temperature of the TV in such a location.
Does mounting a TV over a fireplace affect viewing quality?
Mounting a TV over a fireplace can negatively affect viewing quality because the TV may be positioned too high, causing neck strain, and the angle of the screen may not be optimal for comfortable viewing.
What are some alternative mounting options for a TV in a living room?
Some alternative mounting options include mounting the TV on a wall, using a TV stand, or mounting it on a specially designed ceiling mount.
Can you use a fireplace and a TV in the same room?
Yes, it is possible to have a TV and a fireplace in the same room. However, it is generally recommended to place the TV and the fireplace in separate locations to avoid potential hazards.
What should you consider before mounting a TV over a fireplace?
Before mounting a TV over a fireplace, it is important to consider the size and weight of the TV, the heat output of the fireplace, the height of the mounting location, and the viewing angles.
Are there any other reasons to avoid mounting a TV over a fireplace?
Other reasons to avoid mounting a TV over a fireplace include the risk of fire, the potential for damage to the wall, and the aesthetic impact on the room’s overall design.
What is the best way to mount a TV in a living room?
The best way to mount a TV in a living room depends on the individual’s preferences and the layout of the room. However, it is generally recommended to choose a location that is at eye level for comfortable viewing and to avoid placing it in direct sunlight or near heat sources like fireplaces.
