LCD/LED TVs above the Fireplace: Mounting Instructions

We receive a lot of e-mails asking about the possibility (or even plausibility) of placing an LCD television above the fireplace. The common question is, "Is it advisable and if so how do I mount it?"

Mounting over the fireplace can
be an elegant soltuion for your viewing area.

LCD and LED TVs run cooler than plasma TVs on average so heat is not as much of a concern. Still a thermometer test is a good idea. A consistently hot environment over time will reduce the life span of an LCD TV and/or cause malfunction. Place the thermometer above the mantle of the fireplace and light a fire. If the thermometer shows 90 degrees or more and you will be using the fireplace and TV in unison much of the time, then this heat might affect your TV over time. It really depends upon how often you will use them at the same time and whether or not a lot of heat is penetrating the area where the TV will be displayed. In 90 percent of cases, it's perfectly fine to mount your LCD TV above the fireplace.

Can the LCD/LED TV be mounted onto a brick fireplace?

Yes, cement anchors may be used with the wall mount to secure this application. Again, the amount of heat to which your LCD is exposed should be the major concern here, as some brick fireplaces can radiate quite a bit of heat.

What kind of mount do I need to mount the TV? Will it be too high.

There are two types of mounts that should sove the problem. A tilt wall mount will be the least expensive option and add the least amount of depth between the TV and the wall. These mounts typically tilt up to 15% to 25% vertically (in this case downward). The second option is an articulating wall mount which can be manipulated much more swiveling both side to side and vertically. This will provide more flexibility and opportunity for direct viewing. Articulating wall mounts are a good bit more expensive than a tilt wall mount.

Can I just sit the TV on the mantle?

Typical table stands that accompany LCD/LED TVs run between 5" to 12" in depth. In most cases the table stand will be too deep for the mantle.