Mounting TV Over Fireplace

You have a fireplace right in the center of the main wall in your living room, and you have got a new plasma TV. Just like the fireplace is in the center of the living room's main wall, you would also think of installing the TV somewhere there, from where everyone will be able to watch. Mounting the TV above the fireplace is the best method of making the TV the focal point of the room, and also adjusting both the fireplace and the TV at the same place, without using much of the room space.

Temperature of the Fireplace
The main concern of mounting LCD TVs over a fireplace is the temperature, that can rise substantially because of the fireplace. Almost all types of flat screen TVs can handle a maximum of 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. To check the temperature that develops due to the fireplace, light the fire, wait for a while, and take a thermometer and tape it to the area where you plan to place or mount the TV. Refer to the TV's instruction manual to determine the maximum level of temperature that it can operate in.

Check the recorded temperature on the thermometer, and compare it with that mentioned in the instruction manual. If the temperature recorded is above that mentioned in the product guide, you will probably have to decide on mounting the TV a little higher. If the temperature rises over 100 degrees Fahrenheit; it may cause damage to the TV screen and even the inner electronic components. Along with heat, smoke can also be a reason for the damage caused to the TV. It is better if you keep the TV on the mantel using a special table stand made for that purpose. But first you will have to check if the mantel can hold such a table stand.

Adjustments of the Sockets and Power Cables
An important point to think of is the connections. It is better if you have a connection nearby, so that it will not be necessary to run the cables through the place where there is a connection. Separate connections and wiring modifications for the TV can be made by taking the help of a professional. In addition to mounting the TV, you will also have to consider installing wiring systems for the DVD players and home theater systems.

Viewing Angle
As you are mounting the flat screen television on a certain height, the viewing angle will get disturbed. You may find it difficult for viewing the picture clearly. Therefore, it is better to go in for tilting wall mounts which allow you to change the angle according to where you are sitting. You can turn the TV's angle a bit downward at the eye level.

For best results, it is recommended to take help from professional installers. They would be the right people to suggest you the correct angle for installation and viewing, without the TV getting damaged by the heat generated from the fireplace.