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Where Not to Put a TV: Avoid These Placement Mistakes

Thinking about hanging or standing your new TV? Before you drill a hole, check the room layout. A wrong spot can cause glare, neck strain, or even damage the screen. Below are the places you should keep clear of any television.

Avoid These Room Locations

1. Directly opposite a sunny window. Sunlight shines straight on the screen, washing out colors and making it hard to see. It also raises the temperature around the TV, which can shorten its lifespan. If you must place the TV near a window, use blinds or an anti‑glare screen.

2. In the bedroom. Watching a TV before sleep can disrupt your circadian rhythm, making it tougher to fall asleep. Plus, the space is usually small, so the viewing distance ends up too short, causing eye strain. If the bedroom is the only option, choose a low‑profile unit and keep the screen at least 5‑6 feet away.

3. Too low or too high. Mounting the TV below eye level forces you to look down, which can lead to neck discomfort after a few hours. Conversely, a screen too high makes you crane your neck upward. Aim for the center of the screen to sit at about eye height when you’re seated.

4. Near heat sources. Placing a TV above a fireplace, heater, or kitchen stove exposes it to heat cycles that can warp internal components. Even a small temperature rise can affect the display’s performance over time. Keep at least a foot of clearance between the TV and any heat‑emitting equipment.

5. In a cramped corner. Corners limit airflow and make cable management a nightmare. Poor ventilation can cause the TV to overheat, while tangled wires create a safety hazard. Opt for a wall mount that leaves space for air to circulate.

6. Directly above a door. People walking through the doorway will constantly interrupt your viewing, and the opening can cause vibrations that affect picture stability. It’s also an awkward angle for the eyes.

Practical Tips for Smart TV Placement

Measure the room’s focal point first. The ideal viewing distance is about 1.5 to 2.5 times the diagonal screen size. Use this rule to decide where the TV fits best without crowding the space.

Check lighting. Soft, indirect lighting works best. If you can’t control natural light, add curtains or blinds and consider a matte TV screen.

Plan cable routes before drilling. Running wires through the wall or using a sleek console keeps the area clean and safe.

Test the height with a cardboard cut‑out. Hold a piece of cardboard the same size as the TV at different heights while seated. The spot where the cardboard feels natural is a good starting point.

Finally, think about future upgrades. Leave extra space for a larger screen or a soundbar. A flexible setup saves you from a costly remodel later.

By steering clear of these common mistakes, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, glare‑free viewing experience that lasts years. Pick the right spot, and your TV will become the room’s highlight, not a hassle.

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