Can my fireplace damage my TV?

A fireplace commands attention in a living room, while another key focal point is the TV. Some homeowners may wish to combine these two features together, but may be wondering, can I put a TV over my fireplace? Will it damage it?

The short answer is you can – but you probably shouldn’t. In this article, we’ll explore the potential problems caused by mounting a TV above a fireplace and suggest other, better places to put your television.

So, can my fireplace damage my TV?

Yes – ultimately, the rising hot air from a fireplace has the potential to cause damage to a TV directly mounted overhead. 

However, this depends on several factors: 

• Some makes of TV may be able to withstand greater temperatures than others – so check with your television manufacturer for exact details. Another reason it’s important to check is for the simple reason that if your TV warranty specifically instructs you to not place the appliance too close to a fire, your warranty may be voided if it does experience faults.
• The thickness of the fireplace surround may also have an effect on shielding the TV from the heat, though it’s wise to ask an opinion from your chosen fireplace provider. You could also place a shelf or mantelpiece between the TV and heat source, which could work as a  buffer against the heat.
• Of course, many electric fires enable you to enjoy the cosy effect without any production of heat – or with far less production of heat – so these might be a better option for homeowners seeking the aesthetic appeal over the practical function of a fireplace. 

Where can I put my TV instead?

• Further up the wall: One option is to avoid placing the TV too close to the fireplace and instead shift it further up the wall, away from the heat. Of course, depending on how much space you have to work with, this may impede your ability to view the TV and so isn’t a viable option for everyone. After all, TVs should ideally be placed at eye-level for maximum comfort.

• Choose a smaller, sleeker fireplace: If your heart is set on pairing a TV with a fireplace, simply choosing a smaller, sleeker fireplace could be an option. With such a wide variety of fireplace styles available, it’s quite easy to find a narrower choice that can run along the bottom of a wall – this style can also look ultra-modern, especially if it’s a hole-in-the-wall option. This gives you more space to play with for mounting a TV.

• Opposite ends: Sometimes a TV can take the spotlight away from a fireplace – and vice versa. One way to solve this is to put them at opposite ends of the room. This way, both can enjoy command of their respective walls – allowing you to enjoy each feature to their full glory without being upstaged by the other.
• Build out the chimney breast wall: A popular way to install a flat screen TV above a gas fire is to build out the front of the chimney breast wall to allow the TV to recess and help further protect it from the intense heat associated with an efficient fire. Usually, you will be advised to install the TV at least 400mm above the top of the fire and a suitable insulation should be installed between the fie and TV and behind the TV.  Adequate ventilation should be left around the TV recess to allow any heat build up from the TV being on to disperse.
• Side by side: Why not simply place your TV by the side of the fire? This will still offer the cosy effect and glow that you’re seeking without risking damage to your TV. It will also be easier to achieve a comfortable eyeline for TV viewing when placed at this level.

• A different room entirely: If you’ve got multiple rooms to play with, why not get ambitious and create a dedicated TV room, while allowing your living room to remain a cosy family den for reading, entertaining and socialising.

Whatever you choose to do, there are always options out there to enjoy both your fireplace and TV to their maximum potential. 

Here at Enviro-Flame, we have a huge selection of fireplace styles to suit any property – and any requirements. From modern hole-in-the-wall statement pieces to traditional wood-burning fireplaces, we’ve got something for everyone. We’re happy to help customers across London, so simply get in touch today for some friendly advice.