Due to careful planning, design considerations and ample safety measures, a flat-panel TV above this great room's modern mantel is functional and aesthetically pleasing.
What's the proper way to ventilate?
Recessed niches have become increasingly popular for flat-panel TV installations, because they frame and ventilate the unit. To create such a niche, cut into the drywall, then re-frame it with 2x4 boards to create a 6x8-inch recessed area. A TV can be mounted flush with the wall, retaining ample space for ventilation. This method works especially well above fireplaces because it shields the TV from the heat of an active fire. Another option is to install your TV on a slide-out system, which allows easy access to the back of the panel for cleaning, dusting or reconfiguring of components.
How high should the TV be displayed?
One of the most popular questions clients pose to interior designers is how high to mount their flat-panel TVs. In general, the answer is 60-68 inches above the ground; however, this number will vary depending on the height of the homeowner. If you have to lift or strain your neck at all, it's too high.
Will heat damage the TV?
A safe temperature range of 32 to 100 degrees is standard for most flat-panel TVs. In fact, most instruction manuals will publish this range based on manufacturer guidelines. Homeowners concerned that heat from their fire will affect their pricey flat-panel can assess the degree of heat prior to purchase by taping a thermometer where the flat-panel will hang. If this space does not exceed 100 degrees, the flat-panel should be safe once installed.
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