If you’re wanting to update your home entertainment system or you simply want to rearrange your living room, you may need to remove your old style TV wall mount. Removing a wall mount can be intimidating if you haven’t done it before, but with the right tools and safety precautions, it’s fairly straightforward. In this article, we’ll talk you through step-by-step guide on how to remove an old style TV wall mount so you can tackle the task with confidence.
Step-by-Step Guide to Removing an Old Style TV Wall Mount
Follow these instructions to safely remove your old style TV wall mount:
Step 1: Clear the area around the TV to give yourself plenty of room to work.
Step 2: Unplug all cables and power from the television. This will prevent any potential electrical hazards.
Step 3: Inspect the wall mount to identify the type of screws or bolts that need to be removed. Most old style wall mounts will have screws that are located at the corners or center of the bracket.
Step 4: Use a screwdriver or power drill to remove the screws or bolts that attach the bracket to the wall. Make sure to keep the TV and bracket as stable as possible during this process.
Step 5: Once the bracket is detached from the wall, carefully remove the TV from the bracket. Make sure to hold onto the TV with both hands to prevent it from falling and causing damage or injury.
Step 6: If needed, detach any remaining pieces of the mount from the wall, such as the wall plate or arm.
Step 7: Dispose of the old wall mount and any remaining pieces properly. Check with your local waste management facility to see if they accept electronic waste or if there are any special disposal requirements.
Step 8: Before installing a new wall mount, inspect the wall to ensure it can support the weight of the TV and mount. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall and attach the mount to them for added stability.
Tools Required for Removing an Old Style TV Wall Mount
You’ll need the following tools to remove an old style TV wall mount:
- Screwdriver or power drill with a compatible screwdriver bit
- Electric stud finder (for finding studs in your walls)
- Adjustable wrench
- Socket wrench (for removing bolts)
- Pliers (for removing wall plugs or removing stubborn screws)
It is important to note that before removing the TV wall mount, you should ensure that the TV is unplugged and removed from the mount. Additionally, it is recommended to have a second person assist with the removal process to ensure safety and to make the process easier. Once the TV is removed, you can begin using the tools listed above to remove the mount from the wall. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for removing the mount to avoid damaging the wall or injuring yourself.
Safety Precautions to Take Before Removing an Old Style TV Wall Mount
Before you start removing your old style TV wall mount, it’s important to follow these safety precautions to avoid injury:
- Have a friend or family member assist you by holding the TV steady as you remove the screws or bolts.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands from scrapes and cuts.
- Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes from any debris that may fly off the wall during the removal process.
- Be mindful of any electrical cords or wires as you remove the TV and bracket.
Additionally, it is important to make sure that the wall mount is securely attached to the wall before attempting to remove it. If the mount appears loose or unstable, it may be necessary to reinforce it or seek professional assistance to avoid any accidents or damage to the wall.
How to Identify the Type of Old Style TV Wall Mount You Have
There are many types and styles of old style TV wall mounts, but most are identified by the type of plate that attaches to the back of the TV. Here are the most common types:
- VESA Mount: This type of mount has four or more screw holes that are arranged in a square or rectangular pattern.
- No-Hole Mount: This type of mount attaches to the back of the TV using brackets that clamp around the edges of the TV.
- Single-Stud Mount: This type of mount has a single arm that attaches to a single stud in the wall.
It is important to note that some old style TV wall mounts may not fit newer TV models due to changes in TV design and size. It is recommended to check the compatibility of the mount with your TV before attempting to install it.
If you are unsure about the type of mount you have or how to properly install it, it is best to consult a professional. Improper installation can lead to damage to your TV or even injury to yourself or others.
Tips for Detaching Your TV from an Old Style Wall Mount Bracket
To safely detach the old style wall mount bracket from your TV, follow these tips:
- Make sure the TV is unplugged from all cables and power sources.
- Have a friend or family member assist you to hold onto the TV as you detach it from the bracket.
- Look for any screws or bolts that attach the bracket to the TV and use a screwdriver or power drill to remove them.
- Be mindful of any cables or wires that may still be attached to the bracket or the TV.
Once you have successfully detached the TV from the old style wall mount bracket, you may want to consider upgrading to a newer, more versatile bracket. Modern brackets offer more flexibility in terms of positioning and adjusting the TV, and can often support larger and heavier TVs.
Before purchasing a new bracket, make sure to measure the size and weight of your TV, and check the compatibility of the bracket with your TV’s make and model. You may also want to consult with a professional installer to ensure that the new bracket is installed safely and securely.
How to Remove the Wall Plate from Your Old Style TV Wall Mount
If you still need to remove the wall plate from your old style TV wall mount, follow these steps:
- Identify any screws or bolts that attach the wall plate to the wall and use a screwdriver or power drill to remove them.
- If the wall plate is attached using wall plugs, use pliers to remove them carefully.
- Gently pull the wall plate away from the wall once all screws or bolts are removed.
It is important to note that before attempting to remove the wall plate, you should ensure that the TV is safely removed from the mount. This can be done by following the instructions provided by the manufacturer or seeking professional assistance.
Once the wall plate is removed, you may notice some holes or marks on the wall. To cover these up, you can use spackling paste or wall filler to fill in the holes and then paint over them to match the surrounding wall.
Tricks for Disassembling an Old Style TV Wall Mount Arm
If you need to disassemble the arm of your old style TV wall mount, these tricks may help:
- If possible, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific disassembly requirements.
- Identify how the arm of the wall mount is held in place. Some models may have bolts that can be removed, while others may need a specialized tool to release the arm.
- Be mindful of the TV and the arm of the wall mount as you disassemble it to prevent any damage or injury.
The Right Way to Remove Screws and Bolts from an Old Style TV Wall Mount
To remove screws and bolts from your old style TV wall mount, follow these guidelines:
- Use a screwdriver or power drill with the proper screwdriver bit for the screws or bolts you need to remove.
- Make sure to hold onto the TV and wall bracket as steady as possible while removing screws or bolts to avoid any damage or injury.
- Consider using a socket wrench or pliers for stubborn screws or bolts.
Cleaning Up the Mess After Removing an Old Style TV Wall Mount
After removing your old style TV wall mount, you may have leftover debris or plaster dust left behind on your walls. Follow these steps to clean up:
- Use a vacuum cleaner or broom to remove any loose debris or dust from the area.
- If needed, use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down the area to remove any remaining dust or debris.
What to Do If Your Old Style TV Wall Mount Won’t Come Off
If you’re having trouble removing your old style TV wall mount, consider these options:
- If the screws or bolts are stuck, try using lubricant or penetrating oil to loosen them.
- Consider hiring a professional to help you remove the wall mount if you’re unsure or uncomfortable doing it yourself.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Removing an Old Style TV Wall Mount
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when removing an old style TV wall mount:
- Not unplugging the TV before removing it from the wall mount can cause electrical shock.
- Not securing the TV and wall mount during the removal process can cause damage or injury.
- Not following the manufacturer’s instructions when disassembling the wall mount can result in damage or injury.
When Is It Time to Call a Professional for Help with Removing Your Old Style TV Wall Mount?
If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with removing your old style TV wall mount, it’s best to call a professional technician or installer. A professional can safely remove the wall mount and dispose of it properly, without causing damage to your walls or property.
How to Install a New, Modern-Style TV Wall Mount After Removing the Old One
When you’re ready to install a new, modern-style TV wall mount, make sure to follow these steps:
- Choose the right mount for your TV size and weight. Check the mount’s weight capacity before purchasing to ensure it fits your TV.
- Make sure to purchase the appropriate screws or bolts to attach the mount to your TV.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when installing the new wall mount.
- Use a level to make sure the mount is straight before attaching it to the wall.
That’s it- following these guidelines, you can remove an old-style TV wall mount with confidence and avoid any potential damage or hazards. Happy fixing!