TV Placement Mistakes You Should Stop Making Today

Ever stare at a TV and feel something’s off? Chances are the problem is where you put it. A few simple slip‑ups can ruin your viewing comfort, create glare, or even damage your wall. Below we’ll walk through the biggest blunders and give you quick fixes that anyone can do.

Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid

1. Wrong height. If the screen sits too low or too high, your neck will ache after a few minutes. The sweet spot is when the center of the screen is at eye level when you’re seated.

2. Ignoring window glare. Placing the TV opposite a big window throws harsh light on the screen. The picture looks washed out and you’ll squint.

3. Too close or too far away. Sitting too close makes the picture look pixelated, while sitting too far forces you to strain. A good rule is to sit at a distance 1.5‑2.5 times the screen’s diagonal.

4. Unstable surface. Putting a heavy TV on a wobbling stand can cause shaking or even tip‑over. A solid, level base or a wall mount is essential.

5. Bad cable management. Tangled cords not only look messy but can pull on the TV’s ports and cause wear. Hide them behind a wall or use cable covers.

Easy Fixes for a Better TV Experience

First, measure your eye level from your favorite couch or chair. Use that number to set the TV’s center. If you’re using a stand, adjust the height with risers or a wall mount kit. Most mounts come with a level to help you get it right the first time.

Next, tackle glare. If you can’t move the windows, add blackout curtains or light‑filter blinds. Tilting the TV slightly upward can also reduce reflections without affecting the picture.

For viewing distance, step back and see if you can easily see the whole screen without turning your head. If it feels too close, move the couch a foot or two farther away; if it feels too far, bring the seats forward or consider a larger screen.

Make sure the surface you use is sturdy. If the stand wobbles, tighten all screws and add a piece of plywood underneath for extra support. When wall‑mounting, locate studs and use appropriate anchors – it’s worth the extra effort for safety.

Finally, organize your cords. Bundle them with zip ties or Velcro straps, then run them behind the TV or through a wall plate. A neat setup not only looks better but also prevents accidental pulls that could damage ports.

Fixing these common mistakes takes just a few minutes but makes a huge difference in comfort and picture quality. Take a quick inventory of your living room, spot the issues above, and adjust. Your eyes, neck, and guests will thank you.