Do you want to add a touch of elegance to your living room by mounting your TV on the wall but do not know how to without leaving wires dangling around? You are not alone. Many people shy away from mounting their TVs on the wall because of the hassle of concealing wires. But, with the right tools and knowledge, you can mount your TV without wires dangling. Here, we will discuss the importance of hiding wires, the different types of wall mounts, the tools required, how to locate the best spot, and steps to conceal your wires and cords.
Why Hiding Wires is important when Mounting a TV
Imagine watching your favorite show or playing an exciting video game and being distracted by visible wires dangling down the wall – frustrating, right? Visible wires not only distract you from enjoying the television but also make your living room look untidy and cluttered. Hidden wires give your living room an organized and elegant appearance. Additionally, they eliminate tripping hazards posed by cords lying on the floor and protect your pets from chewing on them. Hiding your wires also keeps them safe from damage caused by spills, overheating, or accidental tugging.
Moreover, hiding wires can also improve the overall safety of your home. Exposed wires can be a fire hazard, especially if they are frayed or damaged. Concealing them behind walls or furniture can reduce the risk of electrical fires and keep your family safe. It is important to hire a professional electrician to ensure that the wires are properly installed and hidden, as improper installation can also pose a safety risk.
Different Types of Wall-Mounts for TVs
Before you start to mount your TV, it is essential to choose the right wall mount. There are three primary types of wall mounts, including fixed mounts, tilting mounts, and full-motion mounts. Fixed mounts are the most affordable, ideal for low-profile installations, and offer no movement after installation. Tilting mounts allow you to adjust the vertical viewing angle, making them perfect for high installations. Full-motion mounts give you the most flexibility because you can adjust the viewing angle in any direction to enhance your TV-watching experience.
When choosing a wall mount, it is also important to consider the weight and size of your TV. Some wall mounts are designed to support larger and heavier TVs, while others are only suitable for smaller and lighter models. It is crucial to check the weight and size specifications of the wall mount before making a purchase to ensure that it can safely support your TV.
Another factor to consider is the installation process. Some wall mounts require professional installation, while others are easy to install yourself. If you are not confident in your DIY skills, it may be best to hire a professional to ensure that the wall mount is installed correctly and safely.
Tools You Need to Mount Your TV Without Wires Dangling
To mount your TV without wires dangling, you should have the right tools on hand. You will need a stud finder, a hammer, a drill, a measuring tape, a level, a wire stripper, an in-wall cable management kit, an HDMI cable, and a wall mount. Tracing studs is essential for finding the center of your wall to install the mount properly. A level is necessary to ensure that the TV is even, while a measuring tape determines the height to mount the TV. The wire stripper is used to connect wires to your TV, while the HDMI cable offers high-quality image transfer.
It is important to note that the in-wall cable management kit is a crucial tool for mounting your TV without wires dangling. This kit allows you to hide the cables inside the wall, giving your setup a clean and professional look. It is also important to ensure that the wall mount you choose is compatible with your TV’s size and weight. Using a wall mount that is not suitable for your TV can result in damage to your TV or the wall. Therefore, it is recommended to check the manufacturer’s specifications before purchasing a wall mount.
How to Find the Best Location to Mount Your TV
The best spot to mount your TV is a place where everyone can view it clearly and comfortably. Avoid mounting your TV too high or too low, as it may cause strain on the eyes or neck. Measure the height of your sofa and subtract the height of the TV from it to find the viewing height. Additionally, consider the available storage and hiding places for your wires and cords. Ensure that your TV mount is anchored securely in a stud to hold the weight of the TV without tipping over.
Another important factor to consider when choosing the best location to mount your TV is the lighting in the room. Avoid mounting your TV in a spot where there is a lot of glare or reflection, as this can make it difficult to see the screen. If possible, choose a location where you can control the lighting, such as a room with curtains or blinds.
Finally, think about the overall layout and design of the room when deciding where to mount your TV. Consider the size and style of your TV, as well as the other furniture and decor in the room. You want to choose a location that not only provides a good viewing experience but also complements the overall aesthetic of the space.
Steps to Conceal Your Cords and Wires
Concealing your cords and wires is crucial for a neat installation. Begin by identifying the stud’s location then, drill a hole in the wall behind the TV and another near an outlet. Next, install an in-wall cable management kit by fishing wires through one hole and out the other. Secure your cables with cable ties to prevent them from dangling down the wall. Hide the kit with a wall plate to give your installation a professional finish.
Another option for concealing cords and wires is to use a cord cover. Cord covers are plastic or fabric tubes that can be easily installed along the baseboard or wall to hide cords and wires. They come in a variety of colors and sizes to match your decor and can be easily cut to fit the length of your cords.
If you have a lot of cords and wires to conceal, you may want to consider using a power strip with a built-in cable management system. These power strips have designated spaces for cords and wires to be neatly organized and hidden from view. Some even come with adhesive strips to attach them to the back of your furniture for a seamless look.
How to Install an In-Wall Power Kit for Your TV
If you are using an electrical outlet behind your TV, consider installing an in-wall power kit. An in-wall power kit eliminates the need for an exposed electrical cord as it seamlessly conceals it within the wall. Start by cutting a hole into the wall where the electrical outlet is located and running the power cord through the wall. A kit comes with two wall caps, one for the top and another for the bottom, to protect the cord from damage. Position the new outlet box, attach the cover, and tighten the screws to complete the installation. You may need to call a professional electrician to help with wiring if you are not confident doing it yourself.
One of the benefits of using an in-wall power kit is that it can improve the overall appearance of your room. With no visible cords, your TV setup will look much neater and more organized. Additionally, an in-wall power kit can be a safer option, especially if you have children or pets in your home. Exposed cords can be a tripping hazard or chewed on by pets, but with an in-wall power kit, you can eliminate these risks. Overall, installing an in-wall power kit is a great way to improve the look and safety of your TV setup.
Tips for Running Wires Behind the Wall
Running wires behind the wall is a delicate task that requires care not to damage the walls or electrical wires. Use a wire coat hanger to locate the stud and drill a small hole in the wall to allow you to fish the cables through the wall. Protect the wires from abrasions and damage by using a conduit or wall cover plate. If you cannot locate a stud, purchase wall anchors to use instead.
It is important to turn off the power to the area where you will be running the wires. This will prevent any electrical accidents from occurring. Additionally, make sure to use the appropriate wire gauge for the electrical load you will be running through the wires. Using a wire gauge that is too small can cause overheating and potentially start a fire. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and local building codes when running wires behind the wall.
Choosing the Right HDMI Cables for Your TV Installation
Choosing the right HDMI cables is crucial for a high-quality image transfer. HDMI cables are available in standard and high speed. Standard HDMI cables transmit data at 1080p, while high-speed HDMI cables deliver 4K Ultra HD data. High speed is ideal for gamers and anyone who loves streaming online content.
It’s important to note that not all HDMI cables are created equal. While some may claim to be high-speed, they may not actually be able to handle the bandwidth required for 4K Ultra HD data. It’s recommended to look for HDMI cables that are certified by HDMI Licensing LLC, as they have been tested and verified to meet the necessary standards for high-speed data transfer. Additionally, the length of the cable can also affect the quality of the image transfer. For longer distances, it’s best to use an HDMI cable with an active signal booster to ensure a clear and stable signal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Mounting a TV Without Wires Dangling
There are some common mistakes made during TV installations. Avoid mounting your TV too high, which may cause neck strain. Do not use an underpowered wall mount to hold the weight of your TV and mount. Inadequate anchors may result in accidents, and overpowered wall mounts may cause damage to the wall. Also, refrain from running wires across the floor, under the carpet, or behind furniture. It may look tacky and pose a tripping hazard.
By following these steps, you can mount your TV without leaving wires dangling, giving your living room an elegant and tidy appearance. Ensure to choose the right wall mount, use the correct tools, conceal your wires and cords, and avoid common mistakes. With careful planning and attention to detail, your TV mount installation will be a success in no time.
Another common mistake to avoid when mounting a TV without wires dangling is not considering the viewing angle. Ensure that the TV is mounted at the right height and angle for comfortable viewing. Also, make sure that the TV is not mounted too close to the wall, as this may cause overheating and damage to the TV.
It is also essential to check the location of the power outlet before mounting the TV. Ensure that the power outlet is easily accessible and not too far from the TV. If the power outlet is too far, you may need to use an extension cord, which may pose a tripping hazard. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can mount your TV without wires dangling and enjoy a comfortable and safe viewing experience.