Mounting a LED TV is a great way to free up space in your living room or bedroom. Apart from saving you some floor space, a mounted TV can also offer a better viewing experience as it lets you adjust the angle to your preference. In this article, we will take a detailed look at everything you need to know about mounting a LED TV.
The Benefits of Mounting Your LED TV
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of mounting your LED TV, let’s take a quick look at some of the benefits you can enjoy.
- Mounting your LED TV saves floor space, leaving more room for other furniture.
- It helps to declutter your living space and offers a sleek and modern look.
- You can adjust the viewing angle of your TV, minimizing glare and providing a better viewing experience.
- If you have kids or pets, mounting your TV can prevent accidents such as the TV falling and hurting someone.
Another benefit of mounting your LED TV is that it can improve the sound quality. When your TV is mounted, the sound waves are not absorbed by furniture or walls, resulting in a clearer and more immersive audio experience. Additionally, mounting your TV can also improve the overall aesthetics of your room by eliminating the need for bulky TV stands or cabinets.
Tools Required for Mounting Your LED TV
Before you start mounting your LED TV, you need to get the required tools ready. Here’s a list of all the tools you need:
- Wall mount kit (bracket, screws, bolts and washers)
- Power drill
- Screwdriver
- Pencil
- Tape measure
- Spirit level
- Stud finder
It’s important to note that the type of wall you’re mounting your LED TV on will determine the type of wall mount kit you need. For example, if you’re mounting your TV on a concrete wall, you’ll need a different wall mount kit than if you’re mounting it on a drywall. Make sure to choose the right wall mount kit for your wall type to ensure a secure and safe installation.
Types of Wall Mounts for LED TVs
There are three types of wall mounts for LED TVs: fixed, tilting and full-motion.
- Fixed wall mount: This type of mount is stationary and does not allow for any movement once the TV is mounted. Fixed mounts are ideal for small rooms where the viewing angle doesn’t change.
- Tilting wall mount: Tilting mounts allow you to adjust the angle of the TV up or down, making it ideal for rooms with windows or bright lights that create glare.
- Full-motion wall mount: Full-motion wall mounts allow you to adjust the angle and position of your TV in every direction. They are great for large rooms or spaces where you need to view the TV from different angles.
When choosing a wall mount for your LED TV, it’s important to consider the weight and size of your TV. Fixed mounts are typically designed for smaller TVs, while full-motion mounts can support larger and heavier TVs.
Another factor to consider is the installation process. Fixed mounts are the easiest to install, while full-motion mounts require more time and effort to properly install and adjust. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure a safe and secure installation.
Choosing the Right Wall Mount for Your LED TV
Choosing the right wall mount for your LED TV is essential for a good viewing experience. The mount should be able to support the size and weight of your TV. To ensure that you get the right mount, check your TV’s specifications and compare them with the mount’s specifications. You should also consider the type of mount that is most suitable for your room, as discussed above.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a wall mount for your LED TV is the viewing angle. The mount should allow you to adjust the angle of the TV to suit your viewing position. This is especially important if you have a large room or if you plan to watch TV from different positions. Some mounts come with a tilting feature that allows you to adjust the angle of the TV up or down. Others come with a swivel feature that allows you to adjust the angle of the TV left or right. Consider your viewing needs and choose a mount that offers the right viewing angle for you.
Measuring and Marking the Wall for Your LED TV Mount
Once you have chosen the mount, it’s time to measure and mark where the mount should be placed on the wall. Follow these steps:
- Locate the studs in your wall using the stud finder.
- Measure the distance between the center of the TV and the top and bottom of the TV.
- Using the spirit level, draw a straight horizontal line where you want to mount the TV.
- Mark the stud locations on the horizontal line.
It’s important to also consider the viewing angle when mounting your LED TV. The ideal viewing angle is at eye level, so make sure to measure the height of your seating area and adjust the height of the TV accordingly. You may also want to consider tilting the TV slightly downward for a better viewing experience.
Preparing the Wall for Your LED TV Mount
With the markings complete, it’s time to prepare the wall for the mount installation. Follow these steps:
- Using the power drill, drill pilot holes for the mount screws where the markings were made.
- Attach the wall plate to the wall using screws and the power drill, making sure it is level.
- Screw the mount bracket onto the back of the TV using the screwdriver.
Before drilling any holes, it’s important to check for any electrical wires or plumbing behind the wall. Use a stud finder to locate any studs in the wall and avoid drilling into them. If you’re unsure about any potential hazards, consult a professional.
Once the wall plate is attached, it’s a good idea to test the strength of the mount by gently pulling on it. If it feels loose or unstable, double-check that the screws are securely fastened and that the wall plate is level. It’s better to make any necessary adjustments now, rather than risk damaging your TV later.
Installing the Wall Plate for Your LED TV Mount
Follow these steps to install the wall plate for your LED TV mount:
- Connect the mount arms to the wall plate using the screws provided.
- Attach the safety hooks to the mount arms.
- Attach the mount arms to the bracket on the back of the TV.
- Connect the TV to the wall plate by gently lifting it and hooking the safety clips on to the mount arms.
It is important to ensure that the wall you are mounting the TV on is strong enough to support the weight of the TV and the mount. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall and attach the wall plate to the studs for maximum stability. If you are unsure about the strength of the wall, consult a professional before proceeding with the installation.
Attaching the Bracket to Your LED TV
Follow these steps to attach the bracket to your LED TV:
- Locate the mounting holes on the back of your TV.
- Attach the bracket arms to the holes on the TV using screws and the screwdriver.
- Make sure the bracket arms are securely attached.
It is important to note that the weight of your TV should not exceed the weight limit specified by the bracket manufacturer. Exceeding the weight limit can cause the bracket to fail and potentially damage your TV or injure someone. Always double-check the weight limit before attaching the bracket to your TV.
Hanging Your LED TV on the Wall Mount
With the bracket securely attached to your LED TV, it’s time to hang it on the wall mount. Follow these steps:
- Align the bracket arms with the mount arms on the wall plate located behind the TV.
- Hold the TV in place and make sure that it is level.
- Hook the safety clips onto the mount arms to lock the TV in place.
It’s important to note that the weight of your LED TV should be taken into consideration when choosing a wall mount. Make sure that the wall mount you select is rated to support the weight of your TV. Additionally, it’s a good idea to have a second person assist you with the installation process to ensure that the TV is hung safely and securely.
Adjusting the Placement of Your LED TV on the Wall Mount
You can now adjust the TV to your preferred viewing angle. If you have a fixed or tilting mount, skip to step 2:
- Loosen the screws holding the arm bracket onto the wall plate to allow the TV to move.
- Adjust the TV to your desired angle and tighten the screws to secure it in place.
It is important to ensure that the TV is level after adjusting the angle. You can use a level tool to check this. If the TV is not level, adjust the angle again until it is. Additionally, make sure that the cables and cords are not being strained or pulled in any way, as this can cause damage to the TV or the wall mount.
Concealing Cables and Wires for a Sleek Look
To achieve a neat and organized look, you need to conceal the cables and wires. Here’s how:
- Use the tape measure to measure the length of the cables from the TV to the nearest outlet or source.
- Gather the cables together and use zip-ties to bundle them together.
- Use cable clips to hold the cables in place and run them down the wall to the nearest outlet or source.
Troubleshooting Tips for Common Issues During Installation
If you encounter any problems during installation, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- If the TV is not level, adjust the mount arms and bracket until it is.
- If the mount is not securely attached to the wall, double-check that you have screwed it into the studs with the power drill.
- If the mount is not securely attached to the back of the TV, double-check that the screws are tight enough.
Maintaining and Cleaning Your Mounted LED TV
Now that your LED TV is mounted, it’s important to maintain and clean it regularly. Use a microfiber cloth to gently clean the screen and avoid using water or cleaning products that may damage the TV. Also, ensure the TV is mounted in a cool, well-ventilated area to avoid overheating.
Congratulations, now you know how to mount a LED TV! We hope this guide has been helpful, and that you can now comfortably mount your television with confidence.