If you own a swivel mount TV, you know how unsightly the wires can be. They can often be the first thing you notice when you walk into a room and can detract from the overall aesthetic of your space. Hiding these wires is not only visually appealing but also necessary for safety reasons. In this article, we’ll cover why you need to hide wires on your swivel mount TV, different ways to hide them, essential tools you’ll need, planning your wire-hiding strategy, step-by-step guide, tips and tricks, common mistakes to avoid, and creative and cost-effective solutions to keep your entertainment setup looking great.
Why You Need to Hide Wires on a Swivel Mount TV
There are two reasons to hide your wires on a swivel mount TV: safety and aesthetics. Hiding your wires can prevent tripping hazards and keep things looking organized and neat. Not only can tripping over exposed wires be dangerous, but it can also damage your TV or other electronic equipment attached to it. Additionally, hiding your wires can improve the overall appearance of your room by giving your entertainment area a cleaner look.
Another reason to hide your wires on a swivel mount TV is to prevent pets or children from playing with them. Exposed wires can be tempting for pets or children to chew on or play with, which can lead to electrical hazards or damage to your electronic equipment. By hiding your wires, you can keep them out of reach and ensure the safety of your loved ones and your devices.
Furthermore, hiding your wires can also make it easier to clean your entertainment area. Exposed wires can collect dust and debris, making it difficult to clean around them. By hiding your wires, you can easily wipe down your TV and entertainment area without having to navigate around tangled cords and cables.
Different Ways to Hide Wires on a Swivel Mount TV
There are several ways to hide wires on your swivel mount TV, including installing raceways, running them behind the wall, or using cord covers. Each option provides different levels of complexity and cost. It’s essential to research and consider which method works best for your skill level, budget, and overall goal for the room’s appearance and functionality.
Another option to consider when hiding wires on a swivel mount TV is using a wireless HDMI kit. This kit allows you to transmit audio and video signals wirelessly from your source device to your TV, eliminating the need for any visible wires. While this option may be more expensive than other methods, it provides a clean and seamless look to your entertainment setup. Keep in mind that the quality of the wireless signal may vary depending on the distance between the source device and the TV, as well as any potential interference from other electronic devices.
Essential Tools for Hiding Wires on a Swivel Mount TV
Before you begin, you’ll need some essential tools. A stud finder will help you locate the studs in your wall, so you know where to run the wires. Fish tape, which comes in different shapes and sizes, will make running the wires behind the wall a breeze. A cordless drill, cable ties, and a utility knife will also come in handy.
Another important tool to have is a cable cover. This will help conceal the wires that are visible on the wall. You can choose from a variety of cable covers, including adhesive-backed covers, which are easy to install and can be painted to match your wall color.
Additionally, if you want to take your wire-hiding game to the next level, you can invest in a power bridge kit. This kit allows you to run power and HDMI cables through the wall, so they are completely hidden from view. It’s a more advanced option, but it can give your entertainment setup a sleek and professional look.
How to Plan Your Wire-Hiding Strategy Before Mounting Your TV
Planning your wire-hiding strategy before mounting your TV is crucial. You want to have a clear idea of how you’re going to run the wires so that you don’t end up with visible or tangled cables. Plan for the length of cables needed, where they will enter and exit the wall, and how the cables will be routed around the room.
Another important factor to consider when planning your wire-hiding strategy is the type of wall you will be mounting your TV on. If you have a drywall, you may need to use a stud finder to locate the studs and plan your cable routing accordingly. If you have a brick or concrete wall, you may need to use special tools and techniques to drill holes and run the cables through. It’s also important to consider the location of power outlets and cable jacks, and plan your cable routing accordingly to ensure that your TV is properly powered and connected to your cable or satellite box.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hiding Wires on a Swivel Mount TV
If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide, here it is:
1. Turn off your TV and unplug it from the wall.
2. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall.
3. Measure and cut your cables to length, leaving extra length to ensure a secure connection.
4. Use fish tape to run the cables behind the wall.
5. Secure the cables using cable ties.
6. Use a cord cover or raceway to cover the cables.
7. Attach your TV mount to the wall and mount your TV on it.
8. Connect your cables to the TV, and plug the TV back in.
9. Enjoy your newly mounted and wire-free TV.
However, there are a few additional tips that can make the process even smoother. Firstly, it’s important to plan out the cable routing before you start cutting and running cables. This will help you avoid any unnecessary mistakes or wasted materials. Additionally, if you’re not confident in your ability to locate studs or run cables, it may be worth hiring a professional to do the job for you.
Another important consideration is the type of cord cover or raceway you use. Make sure to choose one that is the appropriate size for your cables and that matches the color and style of your wall. This will help ensure that the cover blends in seamlessly with your decor and doesn’t detract from the overall look of your mounted TV.
Tips and Tricks for Effective Wire-Hiding on a Swivel Mount TV
There are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind when hiding your wires. For example, it’s essential to label your cables before you tuck them away, so you know what’s what when it’s time to plug them in. Additionally, using cord covers that match your wall color or raceways that blend in with your decor can help keep them from standing out. Lastly, make sure to check your work after you’re done to ensure everything looks neat and tidy.
Another tip for effective wire-hiding is to use cable ties or Velcro straps to keep your cables organized and prevent them from tangling. This will not only make it easier to manage your wires but also make it easier to access them when you need to make changes or adjustments.
It’s also important to consider the length of your cables when hiding them. Make sure to measure the distance between your TV and the power outlet or other devices you need to connect to, and choose cables that are long enough to reach without being too long and creating unnecessary clutter. You can also use cable clips or adhesive hooks to keep your cables in place and prevent them from dangling or getting in the way.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiding Wires on a Swivel Mount TV
There are a few common mistakes to avoid when hiding wires on a swivel mount TV. One is not leaving enough slack in your cables to prevent tugging on the connections when you swivel the TV. Another is not properly securing the cables, which can cause them to come loose and become visible. Not labeling your cables is also a common mistake that can lead to confusion later on.
Additionally, it is important to consider the type of cable you are using when hiding wires on a swivel mount TV. Some cables, such as HDMI, can be more difficult to bend and maneuver, which can make it challenging to hide them properly. It is also important to ensure that the cables you are using are long enough to reach the necessary connections without being stretched too tightly, which can cause damage to the cable and affect the quality of the signal.
Creative Ideas for Concealing Wires on a Swivel Mount TV
If you’re looking for creative ideas, you can also try running your cables through decorative conduit or painting your cord covers to match your room’s accent colors. You could incorporate your cable and cord covers into a gallery wall or build them into a bookcase or cabinet. The possibilities are endless with a bit of creative thinking.
Another option for concealing wires on a swivel mount TV is to use a cord-hiding kit. These kits typically include a channel that attaches to the wall and covers the wires, as well as adhesive strips to secure the channel in place. Some kits even come with paintable covers to blend in seamlessly with your wall.
If you’re feeling particularly crafty, you could also create a DIY wire cover using materials like fabric, rope, or even faux foliage. For example, you could wrap your cords in twine or jute and secure them with hot glue, or use a strand of artificial ivy to disguise your wires. This approach can add a unique touch to your decor while also keeping your cords out of sight.
Cost-Effective Solutions for Hiding Wires on a Swivel Mount TV
If you’re on a tight budget, there are still cost-effective solutions for hiding wires on a swivel mount TV. You can use adhesive cord clips or spiral wrap tubing to hold your cables neatly together. Another budget option is to use a DIY cable cover made from PVC pipes, painted to match your wall color.
Maintenance Tips for Keeping Your Wire-Hiding Solution Clean and Tidy
Once you’ve successfully hidden your wires, it’s essential to keep everything clean and tidy. Dusting regularly with a microfiber cloth or vacuum will prevent dust buildup and keep the area looking clean. Also, ensure that you don’t pull on any wires when you swivel your TV.
Conclusion
Overall, hiding wires on a swivel mount TV isn’t too complicated, but it’s a crucial step in ensuring your safety, preventing tangled cables, and keeping your room looking neat and organized. With a bit of planning, some essential tools, and a bit of creativity, you can have a functional entertainment area that looks great too. Use the tips and tricks we’ve discussed, and you’ll be well on your way to a wire-free entertainment setup.