Is it Safe to Place Your TV Above a Fireplace?: Things to Consider Before Mounting
Many homeowners consider mounting their TVs above their fireplaces for a fun and entertaining environment in their living room, bedroom, basement and more. Not only does it look aesthetically pleasing, but it also helps to free up floor space and allows everyone to watch their favorite shows or movies in comfort. One question on many people’s minds is whether or not it is safe to place their TV above the fireplace. In this blog, we will answer this question along with the top things to consider before mounting your TV above the fireplace.
Fireplaces Create a Center of Entertainment, Comfort, & Safety
During the coldest of winter months, a fireplace can be the perfect place for friends and family to gather around for conversation, entertainment, and warmth. With its built-in heat source, it’s the perfect place to watch a movie or show on your television. Whether you own a gas, electric, or wood-burning fireplace, there are many benefits to adding a hearth into your home.
Benefits of Mounting a TV Above a Fireplace
Mounting your television above the fireplace allows you to take advantage of two great features in one place. You can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a cozy fire while watching your favorite shows in comfort. Additionally, it adds a unique design element to the room that other wall-mounted TVs won’t have.
Things to Consider Before Mounting a TV Above the Fireplace
Before you mount your television above the fireplace, there are a few factors you need to consider in order to ensure your safety and the protection of your home.
Heat Can Warp & Damage Your TV
Heat rises, so if you have a gas or wood-burning fireplace that gets hot, the heat can travel up to the TV and cause warping or damage. This is especially true if the TV is close to the fireplace. To prevent this from happening, you should use a heat shield or fireproof material between the TV and the fireplace. Additionally, make sure that the TV is mounted at least a few feet away from the fireplace to allow for proper airflow.
Temperature Can Affect Picture Quality
The temperature of the room can also have an effect on your television’s picture quality. If the room is too hot, it can cause distortion in the picture. To make sure that your TV is getting enough air to keep it cool, you should leave a few inches between the fireplace and the TV. This will also ensure that heat from the fireplace does not warp or damage your television.
Smoke & Ash Can Cause Television Damage
In some cases, smoke and ash can enter the room and settle on your television. This not only affects the picture quality of your TV, but it can also cause permanent damage. To help prevent this from building up, you should consider installing a smoke and ash detector. This can help alert you to any potentially hazardous conditions in the room.
How to Safely Mount Your TV
Once you’ve considered the potential risks of mounting your TV above the fireplace, it’s time to begin installation. Before choosing to mount your television alone, it is always a good idea to consider calling a professional before proceeding. For an extra layer of safety, you may also want to consider using a tilting or swiveling mount that can easily adjust the angle of your TV when needed. This will give you the freedom to watch from different angles and locations in the room.
Keep Your Television at Least 12 Inches Above the Fireplace
When choosing where you would like to mount your TV, it is important to keep it at least 12 inches above the mantle. This will give you enough space for proper air circulation and will help protect it from potential fire hazards.
Install a Heat Shield
Heat shields are a great way to protect your TV from any potential heat damage. These shields are made of fire-rated materials, such as sheet metal or ceramic tile. When installed properly, they can help reflect the heat away from your television and prevent it from warping or becoming damaged.
Consider Purchasing a TV Made from Heat-Resistant Materials
Certain television models are designed with heat-resistant materials, such as aluminum or stainless steel. These kinds of TVs can handle higher temperatures and are less likely to be damaged by the heat from the fireplace.
Conclusion: Is it Safe to Mount a TV Above the Fireplace?
If you are thinking about mounting your TV above the fireplace, it is important that you consider all of the potential risks. By taking the proper safety precautions, such as installing a heat shield and keeping your TV at least 12 inches above the mantel, you can help ensure that your television is properly protected. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a safe and entertaining environment in your home.
Contact New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA for All Your Fireplace Needs & Questions
For more tips and information about proper fireplace usage, contact New England Hearth & Home in Canton, MA. Our experienced professionals can help provide you with all the advice and tools you need to create a safe and comfortable environment in your home. Our experts can also help you make any necessary repairs or adjustments, ensuring that your fireplace is running properly and efficiently. Visit our website to learn more, or contact us today with any questions or concerns. We look forward to hearing from you!