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Safely take down your wall-mounted TV with these simple steps
TV mounts do such a good job of securing your TV that undoing them looks more challenging than it is. Wall mounts consist of two parts attached together and sometimes secured by a lock. By removing these components, you’ll be able to lift your TV free and get it to where it needs to go. Although you can contact a professional, you can do it yourself with few issues. This guide will show you how to unmount your TV from a wall mount.
Key Points to Consider
- Disconnect all cords connected to the TV before starting.
- Use a screwdriver to unscrew the mount pieces. For added safety, have someone support the TV while you do this.
- Remove the TV from the mount. You might need to tilt it first before lifting it off.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing to Remove the Television
Disconnect all cables connected to the TV. Ensure safety by removing any potential tripping hazards before relocating your valuable television. Withdraw the power cord from the outlet and remember to detach any additional accessories such as gaming consoles or DVD players. It's prudent to relocate these peripherals to a different area of the room.
Release any safety mechanisms. Some TV mounts feature safety locks, which may vary in design. Locate and disengage these locks, using either a designated key or manual manipulation. These locks could include flip tabs or sliding bars, so inspect the mount carefully. Refer to the mount's instruction manual if necessary.
- Whether you've mounted a flat-screen TV, LCD TV, or plasma TV, it should include safety features.
Elevate the lower part of the TV if feasible. Hold the TV securely on the sides and attempt to gently lift the bottom section forward. Since the TV is securely attached to the mount at the top, there's no risk of it falling. This maneuver allows access to the rear of the TV. Avoid applying excessive force if the TV doesn't shift immediately.
- A stationary TV may be secured with safety locks or screws.
Identify the screws or release mechanisms. Depending on the type of mount, screws or release mechanisms hold the TV in place on the wall bracket. Tilting the bottom of the TV forward facilitates visibility of these components. If there are no visible release mechanisms, you'll need a screwdriver to proceed.
- Consult the installation manual for your TV mount if available, following the reverse steps.
Removing the Television
Loosen the mounting screws. TV sizes vary, so you might need to experiment with different screws. Using an adjustable power drill can simplify the process. You may have to maneuver your hand to reach the screwdriver behind the TV. Look for the screws beneath or on the sides of the mount, depending on its design.
- Having someone assist you in holding the TV steady can be helpful.
Release the mount's strings. Some mounts feature strings along with a spring lock. Pulling these strings should disengage the lock. Preventing the lock from engaging is crucial. While you can reach both strings alone, having someone else's assistance can make it easier.
Carefully detach the TV from the wall. If you lack assistance in holding the TV away from the wall, you'll need to improvise by using household items to create space. Even a small gap can prevent the lock from activating. Pull one string while moving that side away from the wall. Place makeshift wedges behind the TV and release. If done correctly, the lock won't re-engage. Repeat the process on the other side.
- Items like movie or video game cases can serve as effective makeshift wedges, but use whatever is available.
Remove the TV from the mount. The final obstacle is the top part of the mount. Enlist someone's help to lift the TV. Each person should grasp one end. On the count of three, lift the TV over the mount. It should come off smoothly.
Disassembling the Mount
Position the TV facing downwards. Allocate a flat surface and cushion it with a clean, soft material like a mattress or blanket. Avoid touching the TV screen or letting it come into contact with any surface.
- Ensure your path is clear to prevent any potential accidents.
Detach the mount piece from the TV. Although you've successfully removed and safeguarded your TV thus far, a part of the mount remains affixed to it. Fortunately, this step is much simpler than taking down the TV. Regardless of the mount piece's shape, it will be secured by four screws.
Remove the mount piece from the wall. With the TV removed, the other part of the mount is now an empty fixture on your wall. Should you opt to eliminate it, follow the same procedure as with the rest of the mount. These screws should offer minimal resistance, allowing you to undo them and slide the mount piece off the wall.
- If you've left fingerprints on your TV screen, you can clean it using a microfiber cloth.
Repair the drill holes. Purchase a small quantity of spackling paste from your local hardware store. Apply a quarter-sized portion of spackling over each hole using a putty knife. Smoothly drag the putty knife over the surface of each hole to fill it.
- To remove excess paste, use a clean putty knife to scrape vertically and horizontally, ensuring an even application. Allow it to dry for at least an hour.
- Once dried, paint over the patched areas. If you don't have leftover paint matching your walls, you'll need to acquire more in the same color. Allow it to dry completely.
Helpful Hints
Essential Tools
- Screwdriver
- Household items for creating space
- Clean cloth
