Wall mounting a TV can completely transform the look of your TV room. It makes the space look more sleek and modern, and also provides more flexibility in terms of placement. However, one of the biggest challenges that comes with wall mounting a TV is dealing with the unsightly cables that come with it. Cables can be a real eyesore and detract from the overall aesthetic of your room. In this article, we’ll take a look at the best ways to hide cables when wall mounting a TV.
Why You Should Hide Cables When Wall Mounting a TV
If you choose not to hide your cables when wall mounting a TV, you run the risk of leaving a cluttered and messy appearance in your home. Not only will it be unattractive to look at, but it can also be a hazard if cables are not well managed. In addition, it can be difficult to dust and clean around a bunch of wires sticking out of your wall.
Furthermore, hiding your cables can also improve the overall viewing experience. When cables are visible, they can be a distraction and take away from the immersive experience of watching TV. By hiding them, you can create a clean and seamless look that enhances the aesthetic appeal of your home entertainment setup.
The Different Types of Cables You Need to Hide
Before you can start hiding your cables, it’s important to know exactly which cables you need to manage. HDMI cables, power cables, audio cables, and cable TV cables are the most common types that need to be hidden.
Another type of cable that often needs to be hidden is Ethernet cables. These cables are used to connect devices to the internet and can be unsightly when left exposed. Additionally, if you have a home security system, you may need to hide the cables that connect the cameras to the recording device.
It’s also important to consider the length of the cables when hiding them. If the cables are too short, you may need to purchase longer ones to ensure they can be properly hidden. On the other hand, if the cables are too long, you may need to find creative ways to manage the excess length to prevent a cluttered appearance.
Tools and Supplies You Will Need for Cable Management
The tools and supplies you will need for cable management depend on which cable-hiding option you choose. For hiding cables in walls, you will need a drywall saw, cable plate, and fish tape. For using cord covers and channels, you will need scissors and a screwdriver. For using furniture to hide cables, you will need a power drill or a hammer and nails.
Another important tool you may need for cable management is a cable tie or zip tie. These can be used to bundle and organize cables, preventing them from becoming tangled or messy. Additionally, you may want to invest in cable clips or adhesive cable holders to keep cables in place and prevent them from slipping or falling.
It is also important to consider the length and type of cables you are working with. If you need to extend the length of a cable, you may need to purchase a cable extender or coupler. If you are working with HDMI cables, you may want to invest in high-speed cables to ensure the best possible picture and sound quality.
How to Plan Your Cable Management Strategy
Once you have all the tools and supplies you need, it’s important to plan your cable management strategy. Careful planning can save you a lot of time and headache in the long run. Start by deciding on where you want to mount your TV and the best location for your cables to enter and exit. You should also take into account the location of your power outlet and the length of your cables.
Another important factor to consider when planning your cable management strategy is the type of cables you will be using. Different cables have different thicknesses and flexibility, which can affect how they can be routed and organized. It’s also important to consider the future expansion of your setup and plan for additional cables that may be needed.
Techniques for Hiding Cables in Walls
If you want to hide your cables in the wall, you’ll need to cut a hole behind the TV and a hole near the floor where your outlet is located. You can then use a fish tape to run your cables through the wall from one hole to the other. Once your cables are in place, you can use a cable plate to cover up the holes in the wall.
Another technique for hiding cables in walls is to use a cable raceway. A cable raceway is a plastic or metal channel that can be mounted on the wall to conceal cables. You can paint the raceway to match the color of your wall, making it blend in seamlessly. This is a great option if you don’t want to cut holes in your wall or if you’re renting and can’t make permanent changes to the space.
It’s important to note that when hiding cables in walls, you should always follow safety guidelines and local building codes. If you’re not comfortable doing the installation yourself, it’s best to hire a professional to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.
Concealing Cables using Cord Covers and Channels
If you don’t want to cut holes in your wall, you can use cord covers and channels to conceal your cables. Simply attach the covers or channels to your wall with screws and place your cables inside. If you need to add or remove a cable later, it’s easy to slide it in or out of the cover or channel.
Cord covers and channels come in a variety of colors and materials, so you can choose one that matches your wall color or decor. Some covers even have a paintable surface, allowing you to customize it to blend seamlessly with your wall.
When using cord covers and channels, it’s important to make sure they are installed securely and that the cables are not overloaded. Overloading the cover or channel can cause it to detach from the wall, potentially causing damage or injury. It’s also important to regularly check the covers and channels for any signs of wear or damage, and replace them if necessary.
Using Furniture to Hide Cables for Wall Mounted TVs
Another option is to use furniture to hide your cables. You can position a bookcase or piece of furniture with a hollow back panel directly behind your TV and route your cables through the panel. This is a simple and inexpensive way to keep your cables concealed.
Additionally, some furniture pieces are specifically designed to hide cables. For example, there are TV stands with built-in cable management systems that allow you to neatly tuck away all of your cords and wires. These stands come in a variety of styles and sizes, so you can find one that fits your decor and TV size.
Tips for Organizing Your Cables Before Hiding Them
Before you hide your cables, it’s a good idea to organize them first. This will help to prevent tangling and make it easier to add or remove cables in the future. You can use zip ties or cable ties to keep your cables organized and in place.
Another way to organize your cables is to label them. This can be especially helpful if you have a lot of cables that look similar. You can use small labels or even colored tape to identify each cable and what it’s connected to. This will save you time and frustration when you need to make changes or troubleshoot any issues.
It’s also important to consider the length of your cables when organizing them. You don’t want to have excess cable length that will just add to the clutter. Measure the distance between your devices and use cables that are just long enough to reach. You can also use cable clips or adhesive hooks to keep the excess cable length neatly tucked away.
How to Install an In-Wall Power Kit for Your TV
If you want to be super organized, you can even install an in-wall power kit for your TV. These kits include a recessed outlet box and a power cable, which can be run through the wall alongside your other cables. This creates a clean and safe setup, as your power cable will be hidden from view and out of reach.
Before you begin the installation process, make sure to turn off the power to the outlet where you will be installing the in-wall power kit. This will ensure your safety and prevent any electrical accidents from occurring. You should also have the necessary tools on hand, such as a stud finder, drywall saw, and wire stripper.
Once you have turned off the power and gathered your tools, you can begin the installation process. Start by using the stud finder to locate the studs in the wall where you will be installing the outlet box. Then, use the drywall saw to cut a hole in the wall that is large enough to fit the outlet box. Next, run the power cable through the wall and connect it to the outlet box. Finally, secure the outlet box to the wall and turn the power back on to test your new in-wall power kit.
Cable Management Options for Renters
If you’re a renter and don’t want to make any permanent changes to your walls, you can still hide your cables. Cord covers and furniture placement are great options that don’t require any holes to be drilled in the wall.
Another option for renters is to use adhesive cable clips or hooks. These can be attached to the walls or furniture to keep cables organized and out of sight. Additionally, using wireless devices such as Bluetooth speakers and streaming devices can eliminate the need for cables altogether. Remember, keeping cables organized not only improves the appearance of your space, but also reduces the risk of tripping hazards and damage to your electronics.
Troubleshooting Common Cable Management Issues
If you experience issues with your cables after hiding them, there are a few things you can try. If you notice that your cables are too short, you can purchase extension cables. If your cables are too long, you can use zip ties to tie up the excess. If you’re having trouble with wireless interference, try moving your cables away from sources of interference like routers and phones.
Wall mounting a TV can greatly improve the look of your TV room, but it’s important to properly manage your cables to keep your space looking tidy. With the right tools and techniques, you can easily hide your cables and maintain a clean and organized appearance in your home.
Another common issue that people face with cable management is cable tangling. This can happen when cables are not properly organized and can be frustrating to deal with. To prevent cable tangling, you can use cable ties or cable clips to keep your cables in place and organized. Additionally, you can label your cables to easily identify which cable goes where, making it easier to troubleshoot any issues that may arise.