Homeowners are damaging their TVs by skipping this 12-inch rule

In light of rising interest among UK homeowners, Imaginfires https://www.imaginfires.co.uk/ —a leader in modern bioethanol fireplaces—has released this timely press release to provide essential advice on safely mounting TVs above fireplaces, ensuring protection for electronics and stylish living spaces.

Mounting a TV above a working fireplace has become a popular design trend in UK homes, with more than 1,000 people searching for advice every month (according to data from Semrush.com).

However, homeowners unknowingly risk their expensive electronics by failing to follow one critical guideline: the 12-inch rule. This rule can distinguish between a sleek, space-saving setup and a ruined TV.

The 12-inch rule: What you need to know

The 12-inch rule is the minimum distance between a TV and a working fireplace. Keeping this distance ensures the TV remains far from the fireplace’s heat source, preventing damage to its internal components and protecting screen quality.

“Many homeowners are unaware of the serious risk they’re taking by mounting their TV too close to the heat of a fireplace,” explains Mark Beynon, co-founder of Imaginfires. “Ignoring this rule can lead to a shorter TV lifespan, discolouration of the screen or even internal component failure.”

How heat can damage a TV

Fireplaces—mainly gas and wood-burning varieties—emit high levels of heat that can rise and damage a television if installed too close. Heat exposure can cause various issues, from pixel damage and screen fading to overheating delicate internal electronics, drastically shortening the TV’s lifespan.

To avoid these costly repairs or replacements, the 12-inch rule should be the first consideration when mounting your TV above a fireplace. Ensuring this safe distance helps protect your investment while maintaining a sleek, stylish setup.

Simple solutions to follow the 12-inch rule

Homeowners can take several proactive steps to comply with the 12-inch rule and keep their TVs safe:

• Install a mantle. A mantle is a design feature that deflects rising heat away from the TV.
• Recess the TV into the wall: This provides extra insulation and can create a modern, minimalist look while ensuring heat doesn’t reach the TV.
• Use heat-resistant covers: Installing mechanised panels or doors to cover the TV when not in use can shield it from fireplace heat.
• Ensure proper ventilation: Proper airflow around the TV helps dissipate residual heat, protecting the device from damage.

How safe is your TV? It depends on the fireplace

The type of fireplace you have plays a key role in whether or not following the 12-inch rule is enough to safeguard your TV. Gas and wood-burning fireplaces produce more heat, making the distance requirement more critical. Bioethanol fireplaces, on the other hand, generate less heat and are often mobile, giving homeowners more flexibility when positioning their TVs.

“Bioethanol fireplaces are ideal for homeowners concerned about heat damage,” notes Beynon. “They emit far less heat than traditional options, allowing more freedom with TV placement. Additionally, wall-mounted bioethanol fireplace solutions are available for those who prefer creating a media wall with a fireplace.”

More than heat: Viewing comfort

Beyond protecting your TV from damage, the 12-inch rule also improves viewing comfort. Mounting a TV too high or too close to the fireplace can strain your neck and make watching uncomfortable over time. Maintaining this minimum distance ensures you achieve the right balance between aesthetics, functionality, and comfort.

The bottom line: Follow the 12-inch rule or risk damaging your TV

With over 1,000 UK homeowners searching for answers every month, it’s clear that the trend of mounting TVs above fireplaces isn’t going away anytime soon. However, if you want your TV to survive the heat, you must follow the 12-inch rule. You can enjoy your fireplace and TV without costly damage by ensuring the proper distance and taking simple steps to protect the device.

Head to the blog for more information: https://www.imaginfires.co.uk/blog/fireplace-tv-placement-ideas/

Credit https://www.imaginfires.co.uk/