Can you mount a TV above a fireplace and should you? Experts share their views

If you've ever considered mounting a TV above a fireplace as part of your fireplace ideas, the chances are you'll have been met with mixed reactions. Some people say absolutely not, others will say it's fine. So why is it that we can't seem to agree on whether it should be done or not?

It's understandable that placing a TV above any source of heat raises some concerns, but are there ways of doing it safely and if so, how?

We asked TV, fireplace and building experts to share their advice on whether you can, or indeed you should, mount a TV above your fireplace. As expected, it's a mixed response but it seems there are some key rules to follow if you do decide to go ahead with your plan.

Mounting a tv above a fireplace may not work with tall fireplaces

Although the safety implications of having your TV above the fireplace will be covered in this article, you may find the decision has already been made for you if your fireplace opening is particularly tall.

“The recommended height for mounting a TV on a wall is generally at eye level when seated," says Kevin Walmsley, TV expert at AO.com. "This is roughly around 42-50 inches from the floor to the centre of the screen.

"By mounting your TV above a fireplace, this sometimes skews the angle as you need to place the TV higher," he says, "which can make viewing uncomfortable for prolonged periods.”

It's something even fireplace manufacturers agree with.

"Generally, the bottom of the TV should be at eye level when seated," adds Brian Athey, managing director of fireplace and heating retailer, Renaissance at Home. "If the TV needs to be mounted lower due to the fireplace, it could cause neck strain and discomfort. It's important to find a balance between aesthetics and ergonomics."

But if your fireplace height passes the test, or you're creating the idea from scratch, what else is there to be aware of if you are still keen on mounting a tv above a fireplace?

Kevin Walmsley

Kevin Walmsley is a highly experienced professional category manager and buyer, with an 11-year track record of delivering profit, cost savings & growth for AO.com by creating competitive advantage. He’s AO’s in-house expert for audio visual technologies with a specialised interest in TVs

Brian Athey

Brian Athey is the managing director of heating and bathroom specialists Renaissance at Home. The company is renowned for its contemporary take on classic home fixtures and its customisable options on most products

Mounting a TV above a fireplace: Picking the right TV and fireplace matters

If you're determined your living room design will include mounting a TV above the fireplace, there are key points to take into account before you make any expensive purchases.

"It’s important to take into consideration factors like heat output, TV size, and the specific design of both the fireplace and the TV," says Brian Athey. The type of fire you want to install will have a huge bearing on whether your media wall ideas need adjusting.

But, it's not just about the type of fireplace either. "Be careful when it comes to choosing your television too," says Brian Athey. "Choose a TV with good heat tolerance. Some televisions are designed to withstand higher temperatures, so consider this when purchasing."

Type of fire

"Electric and gas fireplaces with proper heat management are generally safer, but caution is still necessary," says Francis Fernando, managing director of Lion and Leinster Property and Building Services Ltd.

If you are on mains gas and want to install a fireplace, "gas fireplaces with glass fronts, are the best option due to their controlled heat output," says Brian Athey. Electric fires with front facing heaters or bioethanol fireplaces are also great options as neither require a chimney or flue for the heat to rise up into.

However, if you're currently dreaming of log burning stoves, and wondering can you put a tv above a log-burner, you may need to reassess your choices, as without the right protection, it's not considered the best option.

Consider these bioethanol stoves or electric fires for your living room

Chimney breast suitability

"Chimney breasts often have uneven surfaces and may lack the necessary structural support for mounting a TV," says Francis Fernando.

"Heat conduction through the chimney can damage the TV if proper insulation isn't in place. Running cables through a chimney breast can also be tricky," he adds, "and will likely require professional installation."

"Weight and structural integrity are the primary concerns," confirms Brian Athey. "Chimney breasts may not be able to support the weight of a TV, especially if it's a large model so make sure it’s structurally sound before mounting."

Francis Fernando

Francis Fernando is the Managing Director of Lion and Leinster Investments Ltd, a company proudly accredited by both the Federation of Master Builders and Which Trusted Traders

Mounting a TV above a fireplace: Three essential steps

If you've already mounted your TV above your fireplace and did so without taking any preventative measures, you may now be wondering if there's anything you should have done. The answer is yes, and here's why.

“While many people mount their TV above their fireplace with no protection, over time your TV will be damaged from the heat," advises Andy Simms, general building expert at MyBuilder.com.

"Heat from the fireplace can wear away at sensitive electronics in your TV over time," explains Kevin Walmsley, meaning that while you may have taken the correct measures in terms of using the right fixings on the wall, if you haven't added in heat prevention measures, your TV may not last as long as you'd hoped.

The good news is, there are solutions to mounting a TV above a fireplace without risking the lifespan or condition of your TV.

Andy Simms

With almost a decade of experience on the front line in construction as a multi-trader, Andy has a wealth of knowledge about how to ensure your design ideas are executed safely

1. Use a heat shield and/or mantle

There are two main steps you can take to protect your TV when mounting it above a fireplace. These can be done either independently or together, depending on the look you are hoping to achieve with your fireplace ideas.

Modern fireplace ideas, for example, may call for a more streamline finish, with your fireplace mounted flush inside a wall, whereas a more traditional look can involve a mantle that serves not only an aesthetic but also a safety purpose.

"If you’re keen to place your TV above your fireplace, then it would be wise to protect it from the heat by using a non-combustible mantle or a heat shield," says Kevin Walmsley. "Both of these options will help to create a buffer between your TV and fire."

"Heat shields come in various forms, such as metal deflectors, fire-resistant tiles, or glass barriers," explains Francis Fernando. "They are usually installed above the fireplace to block heat from rising toward the TV.

"However, some integrate with the mantel, while others are fitted behind or around the TV mount to protect it from heat," he adds. Always check with your fireplace installer which type they would recommend for your project.

Other decorative items such as fireplace hoods may also be an option depending on the style of your fire.

2. Ensure adequate ventilation

It's also important to ensure there is proper ventilation around the TV in order to remove heat and smoke effectively. Providing sufficient space for air to circulate around the TV is also necessary with or without a fireplace below it, as it can also get hot without the addition of heat from your fire.

If you are recessing your TV in the wall above a fireplace, you'll also need to make sure it doesn't bring the back of the TV too close to the flue as this can exacerbate any of the issues associated with mixing heat and TVs together.

Other measures you can take to reduce the impact of heat on your TV include, "mounting the TV about 12 inches above the mantel and a few feet from the fireplace," says Andy Simms.

"Likewise mounting it on a TV bracket with an extendable arm so you can move away from the wall when the fire is on would help. However, bear in mind that because of the distance from the fireplace, you might need higher ceilings in order to install a larger TVs.”

This Bontec TV Wall Bracket with Extra Long Articulated Arm from Amazon could be an option if you want to bring your TV away from a fire when in use. I've got a similar version in my home, and while my TV isn't mounted above a fireplace, it's great for turning the TV to face certain favourite seating spots.

3. Use the right fixings and tools

Mounting a TV on any surface requires the right tools and fixings, and this is even more paramount if you are fixing one to a chimney breast above a fireplace. "Use a mount rated for your TV's weight," says Francis Fernando, "and ensure it can tilt downward for better viewing. Mount into studs or masonry, not drywall."

"If you’re in any doubt at all, consult a professional installer before starting the job," says Brian Athey.

On the whole, it would seem mounting a TV above a fireplace can be done in some instances, but isn't without its pros and cons.

"A well-placed television mounted above a fireplace can create a focal point in a room, but if you get it wrong it can throw off the whole feel of the space," says Brian Athey.

"A wall-mounted TV can free up space making it the ideal option if floor space is tight, but if not properly protected, the TV can be damaged by heat — which is a pretty hefty price to pay."

“While placing your TV above a fireplace can save you lounge space," agrees Kevin Walmsley, "ultimately the cons outweigh the pros for this practice. Unfortunately, your TV can face a shorter lifespan due to heat exposure and the viewing angle may be impractical and uncomfortable for many.”

Instead of mounting a TV above your fireplace, why not consider these other chimney breast ideas instead, or if you are considering removing your fire completely, find out everything you need to know about gas fire removal — leaving you safe in the knowledge that you can have a TV above your fireplace after all.