How Should Fireplaces Combine with the Design Element of TV?

Question: We just bought a new 55-inch pure tablet TV. I want to hang it above the fireplace in our family room. But my husband is worried that the heat from the fireplace will damage it. Is it really a bad idea to install the TV above the fireplace?

Answer: Many people consider installing their TV above the fireplace, and it is a common design choice in many homes. In fact, builders often provide power sockets and cable sockets above the mantle specifically for this purpose. However, there are certain factors to consider before deciding to hang your TV above the fireplace, beyond just the issue of heat. Let's delve into why it may not be the best idea and explore alternative placement options for your new TV.

In theory, I don't recommend installing a TV above the fireplace because the heat emitted from the fireplace can interfere with electronic devices. The area above the fireplace tends to have a higher surface temperature compared to other walls in your home. It's important to consider the type of fireplace you have, as each one generates different levels of heat.

For example, a gas fireplace can produce anywhere between 20,000 to 35,000 BTU (British Thermal Units) per hour. To put this into perspective, a 1,400 square foot house typically requires around 15,000 BTU per hour to heat up in winter. Thus, the heat generated by the fireplace can potentially damage the internal components of your TV, especially those that have internal fans, as they are more prone to overheating. While some of the heat will rise directly to the center of the room, there will still be residual heat emanating upwards.

However, there are several variables at play. The distance between the fireplace and the room where the TV is installed affects the transfer of heat from the wall and subsequently from the TV. Additionally, some fireplaces have a lower thermal efficiency, meaning that they generate less heat. If used in combination with high-quality fans, the wall above the fireplace may only be slightly warmer, and thus pose less risk.

That being said, if you still wish to have your TV above the fireplace, it's important to consider the type of fireplace you have. Electric fireplaces, for instance, generate significantly less heat compared to gas fireplaces. Some electric fireplaces are purely decorative and generate no heat at all, while others produce an adequate amount of heat, usually less than 5,000 BTU per hour. Certain independent electric fireplaces are specifically designed to be paired with a TV, becoming a focal element in the room. These generally generate around 3,000 BTU per hour at the highest settings, making them a safer choice for TV placement.

It's worth noting that placing your TV above the fireplace may also void its warranty if heat damage occurs. Today's large-screen TVs can be quite expensive, and if you encounter any issues requiring repairs during the warranty period, the manufacturer may refuse to cover the costs if heat damage is evident. Therefore, it's crucial to carefully read the details of the warranty to understand the terms and conditions.

Aside from potential heat damage to your TV, there are also ergonomic considerations to take into account. Watching a TV that is placed too high can strain your neck. Similar to sitting in the front row of a movie theater and constantly looking up at the screen, watching a TV installed above the fireplace can lead to neck sprains. The most comfortable viewing angle for a TV is approximately one-third from the bottom of the screen to your line of sight. If you're lounging on a recliner or sofa with a slightly reclined position, you may not experience any discomfort in your neck. However, those sitting upright for prolonged periods may feel discomfort or soreness after watching TV for more than 30 minutes.

Furthermore, LCD TVs are notorious for their limited viewing angles. Watching from angles greater than 30 degrees can significantly degrade the image quality. If your tablet TV is placed on the wall above the fireplace and you're sitting on a sofa or loveseat, you'll only have a limited angle to view the screen without compromising the image quality. Ideally, the angle should not exceed 15 degrees to ensure an acceptable viewing experience.

If you must install your TV above the fireplace or on a higher part of the wall, it is advisable to use a rotatable installation rack. This will allow you to adjust the angle of the TV, minimizing neck strain and optimizing the viewing experience from different seating positions in the room.

In conclusion, while it may seem appealing to have your new 55-inch tablet TV mounted above the fireplace, it's important to consider the potential risks. Heat generated by the fireplace can damage electronic components, and the elevated position may lead to neck strain and compromised image quality. However, if you have an electric fireplace or opt for a rotatable installation rack, you can mitigate some of these concerns. Ultimately, the decision depends on weighing the advantages and drawbacks specific to your home and personal preferences.