Mounting your TV on the wall can enhance your viewing experience while saving space. However, improper installation can lead to frustrating results or even damage to your TV. If you plan to install LCD TV brackets, it’s crucial to avoid common mistakes that many people make. By doing so, you’ll ensure your television is secure, your viewing angle is optimal, and the entire process is smooth.

In this article, we’ll discuss seven common mistakes to avoid when installing LCD TV brackets and provide tips to ensure a safe and successful installation.

1. Choosing the Wrong Wall for Mounting

One of the most frequent mistakes is selecting the wrong wall to mount your TV. Not all walls are suitable for holding the weight of an LCD TV and installing brackets on weak surfaces can lead to disaster.

Mistake: Mounting the TV on a drywall surface without proper reinforcement.

Solution: Always check whether the wall has studs. Use a stud finder to locate the studs, ensuring the TV brackets are secured to them. If you cannot find studs, consider using wall anchors or choose a different location for mounting.

2. Using Incorrect Tools or Hardware

Many people underestimate the importance of using the right tools and hardware when installing LCD brackets. Improper screws, bolts, or tools can compromise the stability of your TV.

Mistake: Using standard screws instead of heavy-duty bolts or skipping the use of a level.

Solution: Ensure you have the right tools, such as a power drill, stud finder, level, and the hardware provided with the LCD TV brackets. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for hardware and avoid cutting corners with cheap materials.

3. Mounting the TV at an Inappropriate Height

Positioning the TV too high or too low is another common mistake. Mounting it at the wrong height can strain your neck and diminish the overall viewing experience.

Mistake: Placing the TV too high above eye level or too low on the wall.

Solution: Aim to mount the TV at eye level when seated. For most living rooms, the center of the TV screen should be approximately 42 to 48 inches from the floor. Adjust the height based on your seating arrangement to ensure comfort.

4. Neglecting to Manage Cables Properly

A neatly mounted TV can lose its aesthetic appeal if cables and wires are left dangling. Poor cable management not only looks messy but can also pose a safety hazard.

Mistake: Leaving power cords, HDMI cables, or other wires exposed and tangled.

Solution: Use cable management systems, such as cable covers or wall conduits, to hide the wires. Some LCD TV brackets come with built-in cable management features. Alternatively, consider running cables through the wall for a cleaner look, but ensure you follow electrical safety guidelines.

5. Ignoring the Weight Limit of the Bracket

Every LCD TV bracket is designed to support a specific weight range. Ignoring these weight limits can lead to a catastrophic failure, causing your TV to fall.

Mistake: Installing a bracket that cannot support the weight of your TV.

Solution: Check the weight capacity of the TV brackets and compare it with the weight of your television. Always choose a bracket with a higher weight limit than your TV to ensure maximum safety. Don’t forget to factor in the weight of any additional equipment, such as soundbars.

6. Skipping the Use of a Level

A crooked TV mount is not only unsightly but also distracting. Surprisingly, many people neglect to use a level when installing LCD brackets, resulting in uneven mounting.

Mistake: Assuming the bracket is level without using a proper leveling tool.

Solution: Always use a spirit level or a digital level to ensure that the bracket is perfectly horizontal before securing it to the wall. Even a small tilt can be noticeable, so take your time and double-check the alignment.

7. Failing to Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions

Every TV bracket installation is unique, and failing to follow the manufacturer’s instructions is a recipe for disaster. Improper installation can lead to safety hazards and void the warranty.

Mistake: Relying on guesswork instead of carefully reading the instructions provided with the LCD TV brackets.

Solution: Take the time to thoroughly read the installation guide provided by the manufacturer. Follow each step carefully, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re unsure about any part of the process. If possible, watch instructional videos to gain a better understanding of the procedure.

Bonus Tips for a Successful Installation

• Seek Assistance: Mounting a TV is often a two-person job. Ask a friend or family member to help you lift and position the TV.
• Test the Mounting: Once the TV is mounted, gently test the bracket’s stability to ensure it’s secure. Give it a slight shake to confirm it’s firmly attached to the wall.
• Check for Accessibility: Make sure you have easy access to ports on the back of the TV, especially if you frequently connect and disconnect devices.

Conclusion

Installing LCD TV brackets can transform your living space, providing a sleek and modern look while saving valuable floor space. However, avoiding common mistakes is essential to ensure your TV remains secure and functional. By choosing the right wall, using proper tools, managing cables effectively, and following the manufacturer’s instructions, you can enjoy a flawless TV setup.

Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time installer, taking the time to do it right will pay off in the long run. So, next time you install LCD brackets, remember these tips to ensure a safe, secure, and visually pleasing result.