living room. This is a very challenging task and will always require the help of professional TV mounters. However, if you are an experienced technician and have a helping hand or two in the house, you can do it yourself following the tips in this article. Here are key considerations when mounting a TV above a fireplace.
Heat and Ventilation
The heat and smoke from an active fireplace can damage electronics. Ensure there is adequate ventilation and that the TV sits at least 12 inches above the opening. Using a mantelmount to pull the TV out and down when in use can also mitigate heat exposure. Avoid operation when a fire is lit.
Weight Load
Fireplace masonry may not support heavy TVs. Have a TV mounting service professional confirm the mounting area can handle the TV’s weight. Special anchors and reinforced braces may be needed for large or stone fireplaces. Check the TV mount’s weight ratings and opt for a full-motion style for better positioning flexibility.
Viewing Angle
The natural line of sight from seating may be too high for a TV over a fireplace. Tilting mounts allow aiming the screen downwards for better ergonomics. Situate seating at least 12-15 feet away. Consider a pull-down mantel mount to optimize viewing angles.
Lighting and Glare
TVs placed high on a wall can suffer from glare and reflections. Using matte screens or LED backlighting helps reduce washout from ambient light. Opt for anti-glare film overlays. Control natural and artificial lighting by closing drapes and using room darkening shades.
Cabling and Wiring
Running power, antenna, and AV cables neatly to the TV location takes forethought. Use cable covers and conduits for tidy in-wall wiring. Mount outlets near the TV bracket. Hide gear like Blu-Ray players in built-in cabinets with IR repeaters to control equipment.
Professional Installation
Consider hiring professionals when mounting over fireplaces. Challenges like dealing with masonry, running wiring, finding studs, safely working at heights, and perfect positioning are best handled by experts. They have the experience and tools to get the job done right.
While mounting a TV above a fireplace has definite aesthetic appeal, the technical and ergonomic hurdles require special planning and expertise. Assessing heat, weight loads, viewing angles, lighting, and cabling needs ahead of time ensures your electric fireplace TV setup looks great while offering optimal viewing. With careful installation and the right equipment, you can safely enjoy a TV as a gorgeous focal point over your home’s fireplace.
