How far should an electric fireplace be from a tv? 

Mounting a large flat-screen TV above an electric fireplace is one of the most fashionable interior decor ideas today. But is it safe? Or will the heat from the fireplace damage the TV? More importantly, how far should the electric fireplace be from the TV? 

In this article, we’ll look at some important guidelines everyone should consider before installing a TV above an electric fireplace to avoid damaging your appliances. 

Can you install a TV and an electric fireplace on the same wall? 

Although there are some important factors you need to consider, it’s completely safe to install a TV and an electric fireplace on the same wall. This is because electric fireplaces are clean, safe, and energy-efficient. And unlike the multidirectional heating of traditional wood-burning fireplaces, they either give out heat through the bottom or front. 

Nonetheless, it’s important to give adequate space between the two appliances. Taking us back to the main topic of this article; how far should your electric fireplace be from the TV?

Well, let’s find out! 

Can you mount a TV over an electric fireplace? 

Yes, it’s completely fine to hang a TV over an electric fireplace. After all, most modern electric fireplace models don’t produce much heat, making them a better option than gas fireplaces. 

Instead, some electric fireplaces produce fake but realistic flames that produce zero warmth. However, most units give off some heat similar to space heaters. Either way, it’s important to check the type of electric fireplace you intend to install below your TV. This will help you mount the TV in an appropriate spot to protect it from excessive heat.

On the other hand, some electric fireplace manufacturers design freestanding models such as the Carter Convertible electric fireplace that you can position below a TV. However, such units are designed to produce fewer BTUs compared to standard electric fireplaces. For instance, the Carter Convertible electric fireplace generates 3000 BTUs per hour, while traditional electric fireplaces steadily run at 5000 BTUs per hour. 

The minimum distance between a TV and an electric fireplace

One of the most common mistakes people make when mounting a television above an electric fireplace is getting the size of each unit wrong. Moreover, most modern TV screens are so thin that they look ridiculous if you install them over an electric fireplace if you don’t leave any space between them. For that reason, you should leave at least 2- 3” of space between the fireplace and the TV. 

Specifically, most modern electric fireplace manufacturers recommend that you mount the television at least 7- 8” above the top of the fireplace. However, if you have an electric fireplace with a mantel, the minimum distance between the fireplace and the television should be 20”. More importantly, you should raise the screen to a maximum height of 65” from the floor to avoid stressing your neck and back when watching the Television. 

In addition, you should ensure that the TV isn’t too big for the above fireplace. On top of that, give yourself adequate room when mounting the fireplace to avoid leaving a gap between the unit and the wall mount. Alternatively, hire an expert who knows how to mount a television above electric fireplaces to ensure you get the right size and spacing between both units. 

Things to consider before an Electric fireplace and a TV on the same wall.

Now that you know it’s safe to install an electric fireplace below a TV and the safe minimum distance between the units, there are other factors you need to consider. Some of these factors include; 

• How high should you mount the TV

As mentioned earlier, how high you mount your TV is an important factor to consider as it may cause you to strain your neck if you mount it too high. Also, it will determine whether you have enough distance from your seating to the Television. So, make sure you consider both the safety of the TV and your comfort when determining the proper amount of height for mounting the TV. 

• Size of the TV screen 

In addition to determining the proper height for mounting your TV, you have to consider the screen size based on your viewing distance. In general, it’s recommended that the viewing distance be 1.5 times the screen size from the TV to your eyes. For instance, if you’ve got a 65” TV, the viewing distance should be about 97” (65 X 1.5”) away from the TV screen. However, this may be influenced by other factors such as the locations of the firebox, windows, and light as well as the appearance of the mantle. 

• Type of mounting bracket 

Lastly, make sure you check the type of mounting bracket you intend to use to mount your TV. If you’ve got a wall-mounted fireplace, there are mounting brackets that are specifically made for TV and can support up to 150 Lbs. However, if the firebox doesn’t have a frame behind it or a mantle, you’ll need an ‘L-bracket to allow the television to lean against the mantle. 

Also, you can consider using a flat slim mount framer to hold the TV and hide the wires behind it. More importantly, if you intend to mount the TV too high, consider using a tilt mount so that you can slightly angle the TV’s top away from the wall. 

Conclusion: How far should an electric fireplace be from a tv? 

The best way to install a TV near an electric fireplace is to mount it at least 7 – 8” above the fireplace. Positioning it too close to an electric fireplace risks damage that can destroy it. Moreover, if the TV is mounted over 65” above the floor, you use a tilt mount to ensure a more comfortable viewing.