How to select the best size for a new flat panel TV and get the most out of its placement.
A big part of any living room’s entertainment system is, of course, the flat panel TV. There are many options out there, with each model sporting its own special features. Today we’ll look at some of the most important considerations when purchasing a new flat panel TV: size and placement.
Before deciding how large your flat panel TV will be, consider where it will be placed. You should assess the room’s lighting and windows to account for glare on the television’s surface. If you can’t eliminate glare entirely, many LCD TVs have anti-reflective screens that can reduce it. If you’ve had your flat panel TV professionally installed, these factors have probably already been taken care of.
Next, determine the distance between the flat panel TV and where you’ll be sitting when you watch it. A good rule of thumb is that the diagonal size of the TV’s screen should be about half the viewing distance, in inches. For example, if your couch is 10 feet (or 120 inches) from your television, the flat panel TV’s screen should be no larger than 60 inches diagonally (120 inches ÷ 2 = 60 inches). Televisions that are above this range can cause headaches from eyestrain.
It’s also worth thinking about the weight of the flat panel TV you’re considering. Will your current TV mount or stand support the new television or will you need to look into other options? Remember that even though today’s televisions are lighter than in the past, they can still be quite heavy. A flat panel TV that falls or tips over can damage the TV, other equipment, furniture, and cause serious injury if someone is struck. For these reasons, always place your TV on a mount or stand that will effectively hold it.
Finally, think about how much room you can allocate to your new purchase. It’s best to measure the area you’ll be placing the television in first to make sure it will fit! Keep in mind that the TV’s screen size doesn’t equal its true dimensions, so be sure to look at these specifications as well. Also consider the size of any stand or mount you’ll need to support your flat panel TV, which will also need to fit in the space you have.
If you’re looking to buy or install a new flat panel TV, McCauley Electrical Service can help. Give us a call at (678) 324-3117 to discuss how we can set up your new purchase for the best viewing experience!