Is It Safe to Mount a TV Above an Electric Fireplace?

When considering whether to place a television above an electric fireplace, it's important to weigh the potential benefits and drawbacks. While it can be a visually appealing addition to your home decor, it's crucial to ensure that the electronics remain safe from the heat generated by the fireplace.

Advantages of Installing a TV Above an Electric Fireplace

Cheap Entertainment: You can easily access a library of movies, concerts, and historical events through online streaming platforms. For example, placing a “Fireplace” DVD into a Blu-ray Player can provide even the crackling sound of burning firewood in a realistic 3D experience.

No Fire Hazards: Unlike a traditional fireplace, an electric fireplace doesn't require the potential risk of smoldering embers, no fire hazard, and no added electricity bill. Additionally, there's no mess to clean up like ashes, making the area around the fireplace safer and more attractive.

Disadvantages of Mounting a TV Above an Electric Fireplace

Aesthetics vs. Romance: While it can be aesthetically pleasing, it might take away from the romantic and cozy atmosphere. Traditional fireplaces are often part of the home's charm and creating a more modern look by placing a TV there can alter the ambiance.

Thermal Safety Concerns: Electric fireplaces, unlike gas ones, typically don't generate significant heat. However, it's essential to ensure that the area where you plan to mount the TV remains at a safe temperature.

Legal Considerations and Safety Guidelines

In the United States, installing a TV above a fireplace might be a legal requirement due to the popularity of home renovation shows. However, in most other places, it's standard to have a TV at a correct height, with the top of the screen level with the eyes of the viewer. The zone over the fireplace can become extremely warm due to the heat produced by the fireplace.

Heat Production of an Electric Fireplace

Electric fireplaces can vary greatly in their heat output. A gas fireplace can produce up to 35,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs) of heat per hour, whereas an electric fireplace with a blower might produce only 5,000 BTUs. Even with a good blower, some heat will rise, redirecting warmth towards the TV mount.

For electric fireplaces, the farther the mantle extends into the room, the more it will redirect heat upward. Additionally, some electric fireplaces are primarily for ambiance and don’t produce much heat. A safer option would be to mount a TV on top of a fireplace designed for both heating and display, like the Carter Convertible Electric Media Fireplace, which produces only 3,000 BTUs per hour on its highest setting.

Thermal Testing Procedure

To ensure the area is safe for mounting a TV, follow these steps:

Tape a thermometer to the wall in the area where you plan to mount the TV. Start the fireplace and let it run for a few hours. Check the thermometer. If the temperature reaches or exceeds 100 degrees Fahrenheit, the area is too hot for the TV. If the temperature remains below 100 degrees Fahrenheit, the TV should be safe. However, you should still consider the potential for thermal damage to the TV's guarantee.

Even if the area appears safe in terms of temperature, mounting a TV directly above a fireplace can void its warranty. Most manufacturers have specific guidelines that state placing a device near a heat source can render the guarantee null and void.

Potential Viewing Distress

Mounting a TV too high can create discomfort for viewers. The ideal viewing angle for a TV is from a seated position, where the bottom third of the screen is at eye level. A TV mounted too high can cause neck strain and discomfort, especially after prolonged viewing.

Conclusion

Whether to mount a TV above an electric fireplace ultimately depends on the specific setup and your personal comfort preferences. It’s important to consider the thermal safety and the risk to your TV's warranty. By conducting a simple thermal test and understanding the potential issues, you can make a more informed decision that benefits both your home’s aesthetics and your family’s viewing experience.