Expert's warning over best place to put your TV in the living room

Many people hang their TV above the fire or only have room to place it close to a fireplace

Homeowners are being cautioned about placing their television sets too near open flames, as experts recommend keeping TVs at least 12 inches away from working fireplaces. The advice comes amid concerns that while it might be tempting or sometimes necessary to hang a TV above the fire or situate it close by due to space constraints, doing so can significantly risk the device's longevity and image quality.

Mark Beynon from Imaginfires stressed the potential hazards: "Many homeowners are unaware of the serious risk they're taking by mounting their TV too close to the heat of a fireplace. Ignoring this rule can lead to a shorter TV lifespan, discolouration of the screen or even internal component failure."

Fireplaces, particularly those that are gas and wood-burning, produce high levels of heat which can result in various problems for televisions if hung too closely; these issues may involve pixel damage, screen fading and could cause overheating which affects the delicate internal electronics. To sidestep such expensive repairs or the need for replacements, adhering to the 12-inch rule is crucial for anyone planning to mount their television above a fireplace.

This precaution not only ensures your TV's durability but also preserves the stylish aspect of your living room set up. Whether the 12-inch rule is sufficient to protect your TV from heat largely depends on the type of fireplace one owns. Gas and wood-burning fireplaces generate more heat, thus necessitating a stricter adherence to this safety guideline, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Meanwhile, bioethanol fireplaces pose less of a risk due to their lower heat output and often portable design, offering homeowners greater leeway in TV placement. Mark commented: "Bioethanol fireplaces are ideal for homeowners concerned about heat damage. They emit far less heat than traditional options, allowing more freedom with TV placement. Additionally, solutions are available for those who prefer creating a media wall with a fireplace."

To adhere to the 12-inch rule and safeguard their TVs, homeowners have a variety of options:

• Add a mantle: Not only a style statement, mantles can direct heating away from the television set.
• Recessing the TV: A snug fit within the wall not only looks sleek but serves as added insulation against the heat.
• Heat shields: Mechanised covers or doors specifically designed can be used when the TV isn't in operation.
• Ventilation: Ensuring there's good air circulation around the TV helps to keep any residual heat at bay, preventing potential damage.