Flat screen TV over a fireplace ? Think about this..

     Many people now are buying the new modern type televisions that fasten to the wall. This for example from a safety feature means that you must be absolutely sure that it is mounted correctly.Ok wait, I'm jumping the gun here. If you're adamant about installing your flat screen above a fireplace and you've got money to burn (ahem...) you can dig out a cavity that's deep enough to house the TV, all necessary wiring and components, along with ventilation fans to keep the space cool. It's a pricey solution, but a solution nonetheless.

     The fact that you can mount a flat-screen TV almost anywhere has spurred some creative solutions - from hanging a television amongst a mish-mash of framed artwork, turning the boob tube into a masterpiece itself, to installing a flat screen above a fireplace. The latter has always made me wonder, how safe is placing a $$$$$+ gizmo above roaring flames?  With a little research, there's an easy to way to test that prized spot above the mantel for flat-screen compatibility.

Whether you've invested in an LCD or a plasma, running either above the recommended ambient temperature  (between 90 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit) can prematurely damage the electronic components within your new, pricey, set. Here are some experiments to run before you start drilling into the wall above your hearth.

Most LCDs and plasmas are built to operate within a temperature range of 32 - 100 degrees Fahrenheit - you can find out where your set lies by checking the tech specs in your instruction manual. Practical Home Theater Guide suggests you tape a thermometer up where you plan to mount your flat panel, build a fire, grab a book, and let it roar for a few hours. Once your room's temperature has stabilized check the thermometer. If it's near or above 90 degrees Fahrenheit it's time to find a new place for your TV.

   Lastly, but no less important: WIRING...Your new tv needs a source of some type, and that can range from one to fifteen various wires NOT including power. National Electrical Code does not allow standard power cords to be buried in the wall...consequently you may need to hire a qualified electrician to install an electrical outlet behind the proposed tv location, or plan on concealing it otherwise on the exterior of that wall. Most installers can find a way to conceal the feed wiring, but that can incur specialty charges for custom tracks, carpentry work, and definitely much longer wires than your average tv salesman will talk you into taking with you -- not his fault, he hasn't seen your home and usually has never done an install outside of the false wall at the store -- his job is to sell you what he can while you are spending.

Bottom line is: there are many considerations in this endeavor (especially if you add multi-channel audio and a consolidated remote into the mix!) that are not noticed by anyone involved in this process until the day the installer arrives. Whenever possible it is always a good idea to spend a few dollars beforehand to have an installer assess what can and cannot be done with your specific arrangement BEFORE you fall under the salesman's chant of "WE can do ANYTHING!"

 

   Residents of a Mt Coolum townhouse jumped for their lives after a fire broke out in the early hours of this morning. Neighbors said the residents had to jump from the second story townhouse after it was engulfed in flames. Three fire units rushed to the 3am blaze in the Power Court residence but firefighters said it was 'well involved' when they arrived. Fire crews managed to contain the blaze to the one brick and tile townhouse in the complex. While fire investigators are on the scene today to carry out detailed investigations, initial inquiries indicate the fire could have started from a plasma TV overheating.

  

 

 

 

 

 Board Certified Master Inspector. 303-249-4284