How far away should an electric fireplace be from a TV? Is it even relevant, or can you place your TV as close to the fireplace as possible? This is the question on most people’s minds.
We all know how cool an electric fireplace looks, especially when the design corresponds with your television set. However, did you know that placing the electric fireplace too close to your TV could cause more harm than good? There’ve been cases of electrical surges and hazards due to the close distance between electric fireplaces and television sets.
Thus, it is essential to know the right distance between an electric fireplace and a TV. In this article, we will show you how to place your TV set above your fireplace correctly.
What Is an Electric Fireplace?
Gone are the days when one had to go all the way to find coal or wood to keep themselves warm. Now, all you need to do is connect your electric fireplace to a power source, and you will enjoy unlimited warmth! Although the electric fireplace has come to stay, most people wonder if it is worth their time and money.
If you love to be comfortable in your home while enjoying warmth without stressing yourself, an electric fireplace is what you need. An electric fireplace is just like your regular fireplace. Interestingly, it mimics the way a coal fireplace burns. The main difference between the electric and coal fireplace is that the former does not require tending to, while the latter does.
How to Place Your Fireplace Without Affecting Your TV
Aside from the aesthetic satisfaction it brings, installing your electric fireplace correctly saves you a lot. First, the heat from the fireplace can potentially damage your television if you don’t control it. Most people don’t realize this until the heat from the fireplace damages their flatscreen TVs, and they have to spend tons of money replacing them. Instead of waiting for your television to get damaged before learning the right thing to do, why not learn it now?
There are a few things you need to know before placing your television above the fireplace. We’ll look at a few things you must consider before placing your TV over your fireplace.
Distance
The distance between your TV and fireplace must be at least 8 inches apart. You need to give an 8-inch gap from the top of the fireplace to the mantel, ceiling, or TV. Additionally, leave a 6-inch gap between the fireplace and the floor. While your aim is to protect the television, you don’t also want to ruin your floor now, do you?
Brand
Your electric fireplace brand also determines the distance you will give between the television and the fireplace. These brands usually specify the distance between the television and the fireplace to help you avoid hazards. If in doubt, consult with the brand’s customer service to get the exact distance needed between your television and the fireplace.
Ensure You Measure the Temperature
The surest way to know the best distance between your fireplace and the television is to use a thermometer for temperature measurements. One of the first things to do is to get a thermometer and tape to help you carry out the distance.
You must first tape the thermometer to the wall where you intend to install your television. Ensure the thermometer is above the fireplace. You must put it in the location where you want to install your TV.
Next, run your electric fireplace for some hours to document the temperature. It would be best to adjust the position of the television if you record anything above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The optimal temperature range for the distance between your television and electric fireplace is between 32 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Dangers of Electric Fireplaces Near Other Appliances and Materials
Danger
Description
Overheating
Electric fireplaces generate heat, and if placed too close to other electronics, they can cause those devices to overheat.
Fire Hazard
If an electric fireplace is placed too close to flammable materials, such as curtains, papers, or other combustible items, it can increase the risk of a fire.
Electromagnetic Interference
Electric fireplaces produce electromagnetic fields, which can interfere with the proper functioning of nearby electronic devices.
Power Surges
Electric fireplaces typically draw a significant amount of power. Plugging them into the same electrical circuit as other electronics may overload the circuit and cause power surges.
Poor Ventilation
Electric fireplaces require proper ventilation to dissipate the heat they generate. If placed too close to other electronics, they can obstruct the airflow, causing the devices to overheat.
Electrical Safety
Placing electronic devices too close to an electric fireplace increases the risk of electrical accidents, such as short circuits or electric shocks.
Why Choose an Electric Fireplace?
We do respect that most people prefer the traditional way of doing things, which includes using the coal fireplace. However, the electric fireplace has come to stay, and that too with several advantages. Perhaps you’ve not had someone to convince you why you need an electric fireplace. Here are some reasons why you need to use an electric fireplace in your home today.
Convenience
One characteristic that everyone shares in this century is the prioritization of convenience. Most people don’t like to stress themselves when there are alternative solutions to their problems that require less stress. The electric fireplace is one of those alternative ways with less stress. Unlike the older coal fireplace, you don’t have to worry about reinforcing the fireplace with more coal. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about clogging chimneys or char removal.
All you need to do when using an electric fireplace is to ensure that it is plugged into a power source. Once plugged in, you can kick back and relax while the whole electrical system warms up your room in a matter of time. Since it is an electrical appliance, you can effectively regulate the temperature with the push of a button. Unlike the coal counterparts that require you to remove coal of some sort, you will have total control of the temperature from your couch!
Aesthetics
There are a lot of electric fireplace designs you can select to further beautify your home. Unlike the traditional coal fireplaces that do not have a broad design range, you can find tons of designs with their electrical counterparts. If you want something that makes your home unique and classy, you can always consider the electric fireplace.
Easy Maintenance
If you’ve used the old coal fireplace, you know how tiring it is to maintain. But who says you have to remain there when you can easily use an electric fireplace? With an electric fireplace, you don’t have to keep thinking about things like coal and temperature regulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put my television above my electric fireplace?
The answer to this question depends on things—like the distance between your TV and the fireplace. But, yes, you can install your television above your fireplace, depending on how well you install the television.
If you do not follow the correct instructions, you may end up ruining your television due to the heat that comes from the fireplace. Before installing your TV over your electric fireplace, you must take the temperature measurements. This easy but crucial step ensures that you do not spoil your television after installation over the fireplace.
What’s the correct distance between the electric fireplace and TV?
Although most people pitch the safe distance between the television and an electric fireplace at 8 inches, it is best to consult the fireplace brand. Most fireplace brands have their own optimal distance specifications you must abide by if you don’t want to destroy your TV.
Also, it would help to carry out a temperature test before installing your TV. Run the temperature test by taping a thermometer at least 8 inches from your electric fireplace. Ensure the thermometer is in the same spot you want to install your TV. Allow the electric fireplace to run for a few hours, then take the temperature reading. If the temperature is within 30 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you can install your television on the spot. However, if the temperature is above 100 degrees, it would be best to adjust the distance or look for an alternative.
Is it ideal to install an electric fireplace under your TV?
It all depends on the distance between the television and the electric fireplace. If you want to install an electric fireplace under your TV without spoiling it, then stick to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Conclusion
We have considered the ideal distance to install an electric fireplace under a television in this article. Interestingly, you must give at least an 8-inch gap between the television and the fireplace if you don’t want to damage the TV. However, it is best to carry out the temperature test to determine if 8 inches are enough or if you should add more distance between your TV and the electric fireplace.
So, how far should an electric fireplace be from a TV? It all depends on the brand of the electric fireplace. Always consult the brand’s installation instructions before installing the television above your electric fireplace.
Hi everyone! My name is Jason, and I am the founder of HeaterWise.com. Having run my own business as a Heating Engineer for 21 years, I have picked up a few things along the way.
I wanted to create Heater Wise as a place where anyone could come, from far and wide, to find the information that they need.
I hope you will join us here at Heater Wise, to get started on your own journey, to expand your knowledge, and make the best heating choices for you and your family.
