How to Install a Flat Screen TV

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Attach the Brackets to Your Flat Screen TV

Securely Attach the Flat Screen TV to the Wall

Mounting a flat screen TV on your wall is a visually appealing endeavor that you'll find enjoyable. As flat screen, HD, and plasma TVs become increasingly common, more and more individuals are opting to mount their TVs on the wall. In fact, it's quite straightforward and affordable. You can find a sturdy wall mount for as little as $50 or $60. For a detailed guide on how to mount your TV on the wall, continue reading below.

Steps

Attach the Brackets to Your Flat Screen TV

Acquire a bracket of the appropriate size either from an online source or an electronics retailer.

Detach the stand from the TV if it's attached. If the stand isn't already attached when you unbox the TV, don't install it; you'll need to remove it later anyway.

Place the TV screen-side down on a soft, padded surface. If you're hesitant about placing your plasma TV face down on the floor or carpet, refer to the owner's manual for advice. Some plasma screen manufacturers recommend working with the screen facing upright while affixing the brackets.

Locate the four holes on the back of the TV. These are where you'll attach the purchased bracket. Your mount may consist of three pieces. The two small brackets will be affixed to your TV.

If necessary, remove any screws blocking the holes. Many TV manufacturers seal their mounting holes with screws during assembly.

Attach the mounting brackets to the back of the TV, aligning them according to the mounting instructions. Ensure that the brackets are oriented correctly when securing them to the TV.

Secure any remaining bolts using a screwdriver. The bracket should be securely fastened to the TV, with no play. You may need to use washers included with the bracket to achieve a snug fit.

Securely Attach the Flat Screen TV to the Wall

Locate the wall studs.plasterboard

The most reliable method for finding studs is by using a stud finder, which you can either rent or purchase inexpensively.

Stud finders, particularly inexpensive ones, especially when dealing with plasterboard instead of drywall, may not provide precise results in locating the exact center of a wall stud. Hence, it's advisable to drill several 1/8' (0.32 cm) test holes at the indicated stud location provided by the stud finder. You'll know you've hit the wood when the drill penetrates, ensuring you've found the stud.

If you don't have a stud finder, you can tap on the wall until you hear a solid sound, then drill holes to pinpoint the exact position of the wall stud.

Caution: When drilling the test holes, ensure they're only slightly deeper than the wall thickness to avoid accidentally drilling into any cables that may be near the wall stud.

Drill pilot holes with the diameter specified in the instructions.

Position the mounting bracket on the wall and use a socket wrench or pliers to tighten the lag bolts securely.

To ensure it's level, attach it with one lag bolt and verify its levelness. Double-check if any pilot holes need to be re-drilled.

Thread your cords through one hole and out the other. To help guide the wires, lower a nut attached to a string through the upper hole and pull it out from the bottom.

Lift your TV and hang it onto the bracket. You might need someone to assist you. Secure the nuts or set screws that fasten the bracket to the TV.

Ensure that the bracket is stable and capable of supporting the TV's weight before releasing it. Connect your cables to their respective ports and switch on the power.

Done! Your TV is now successfully mounted.

Helpful Tips

Avoid drilling holes for wire routing along the same vertical axis as electrical outlets or cable/satellite TV ports to prevent accidental damage to wires.
Investing in class 2- or 3-rated in-wall wires can save you time and money if you decide to relocate.
Utilize a metal coat hanger for effectively threading wires through drilled holes.

Cautions

Ensure your TV is securely mounted and won't fall when released.
Beware of hidden wires and pipes in the wall; drill cautiously.
Use in-wall rated wires when concealing them.
Mounting the TV power cord inside the wall as depicted in these illustrations does not comply with building and fire codes. It's unsafe.

Essentials

Pliers or socket wrench
Screwdriver
Level
Knife for wire concealment
Metal coat hanger/metal wire
Stud finder

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the initial steps to mount a flat screen TV?

To start, detach the TV stand if attached, then place the TV face down on a soft surface. Next, locate the mounting holes on the back and attach the appropriate brackets securely.

How can I find wall studs for mounting my TV securely?

Use a stud finder to locate wall studs, or tap on the wall until you hear a solid sound. Drill small test holes to confirm the stud's location before mounting.

Is it necessary to drill pilot holes when mounting the TV?

Yes, drilling pilot holes is essential to ensure the lag bolts fit securely into the wall studs. Follow the diameter specifications in the mounting instructions for best results.

What should I do to conceal wires when mounting my TV?

To conceal wires, drill holes for routing them without aligning vertically with electrical outlets. Use a metal coat hanger to assist in threading the wires through the drilled holes.

What tools do I need for mounting a flat screen TV?

You will need a screwdriver, pliers or socket wrench, a level to ensure straightness, a knife for wire concealment, and a stud finder to locate the studs properly.

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