Above-Fireplace TV Mounting: Why It's Usually a Bad Idea (And How to Do It Right)
The most common TV mounting mistake I see: mounting above the fireplace.
I get it. Fireplaces are often the focal point of a room, and it seems logical to put the TV there too. But from a viewing angle perspective, it's almost always too high.
Here's why it's a problem — and if you're set on doing it anyway, how to minimize the damage.
WHY TV-ABOVE-FIREPLACE IS A BAD IDEA
1. IT'S TOO HIGH
Fireplace mantels average 54–60 inches from the floor. Add a 55" TV and you're looking at the screen center at 70–75 inches high.
The problem: The ideal TV viewing height is 42–48 inches (center of screen at seated eye level). Mounting at 70+ inches means tilting your head up constantly.
The result: Neck strain, eye fatigue, and a worse picture (LCDs look washed out when viewed from below).
2. HEAT DAMAGES TVs
If you use your fireplace, heat rises directly into the TV. Even with a mantel deflecting some heat, electronics + heat = shortened lifespan.
Modern TVs are rated for 32–95°F operating temperature. Above a working fireplace, you can hit 110–120°F easily.
3. SOOT AND DUST
Wood-burning fireplaces produce soot. Gas fireplaces produce less, but still create dust and particulates. Over time, this settles on and inside your TV, clogging vents and coating the screen.
WHEN TV-ABOVE-FIREPLACE WORKS
There are exactly three scenarios where above-fireplace mounting makes sense:
1. YOU NEVER USE THE FIREPLACE
If it's purely decorative (sealed, no gas, no wood), heat isn't a concern. You're still dealing with the height problem, but at least you won't damage the TV.
2. YOU HAVE A LOW MANTEL (UNDER 48")
Some modern fireplaces have low profiles with mantels at 40–45 inches. In this case, mounting the TV above puts the screen center at 55–60 inches — still higher than ideal, but tolerable with a tilting mount.
3. IT'S A SECONDARY TV (OCCASIONAL USE)
If this is a guest room TV or a rarely-watched screen, ergonomics matter less. You can tolerate a bad viewing angle for 30 minutes here and there.
IF YOU'RE DOING IT ANYWAY, DO IT RIGHT
Okay, you've decided you're mounting above the fireplace despite my warnings. Here's how to minimize the problems:
1. USE A FULL-MOTION TILTING MOUNT
A fixed mount at 70 inches high is a recipe for neck pain. A tilting mount lets you angle the TV down 10–15 degrees toward your seating position.
Recommended mounts:
· Sanus VLF728 (tilts + extends)
· MantelMount MM540 (pulls down and over mantel when watching, retracts when not in use)
2. ADD A MANTEL HEAT SHIELD
If you use the fireplace, install a heat deflector above the mantel. This redirects rising heat away from the TV.
DIY option: A simple metal or wood shelf 4–6 inches above the mantel works.
Professional option: Fireplace shops sell custom heat shields designed for this.
3. LOWER YOUR SEATING
If the TV is fixed at 70 inches, you can offset some of the viewing angle issue by using lower seating (sectionals, recliners, floor cushions).
Not ideal, but better than nothing.
4. CONSIDER A RECESSED MOUNT
If you're renovating, you can recess the TV into the wall above the fireplace, effectively lowering it by 3–6 inches. This doesn't fully solve the height problem, but every inch helps.
5. USE THE FIREPLACE SEASONALLY
If you only use the fireplace in winter, unmount the TV during fireplace season. Store it in the basement or another room. This protects the TV from heat damage.
Yes, it's annoying. But so is replacing a $1,000 TV every 3 years.
BETTER ALTERNATIVES TO ABOVE-FIREPLACE MOUNTING
Option 1: TV on Adjacent Wall
If your room layout allows, mount the TV on a wall perpendicular to the fireplace. You can still enjoy the fireplace, and the TV is at proper viewing height.
Option 2: TV in Built-In Cabinetry
Custom built-ins next to the fireplace let you position the TV at eye level while keeping the fireplace as a focal point.
Option 3: Freestanding TV Console
A low console (18–24 inches high) positions the TV perfectly. Put it across from the fireplace rather than above it.
Option 4: Projector + Retractable Screen
For dedicated home theaters, use a projector with a motorized screen that drops in front of the fireplace. Best of both worlds — fireplace when you want ambiance, theater when you watch movies.
WHAT ABOUT FRAME TVs?
Samsung's "The Frame" TV is designed to look like art when not in use. It's popular for above-fireplace mounting because it blends in.
But: It's still too high. The Frame doesn't solve the ergonomics problem — it just makes the bad viewing angle look prettier.
If you're getting a Frame TV for aesthetic reasons, great. But don't convince yourself it fixes the height issue. It doesn't.
FINAL ADVICE
If your room layout gives you any other option, don't mount above the fireplace. Your neck, your eyes, and your TV will thank you.
If you're absolutely committed to it:
· Use a tilting or pull-down mount
· Add a heat shield if you use the fireplace
· Accept that it's a compromise
And if you're building or renovating, design the room so the TV and fireplace aren't competing for the same wall. Future you will appreciate it.
Need help figuring out the right TV placement for your room? Call or text: (763) 393-6892
Or visit: techwithatoolbox.com/contact
