Once you've moved into your new home, mounting your TV is one of the first priorities. Done right, it enhances your viewing experience and keeps your space organized. Done wrong, it's a safety hazard and an eyesore. Here's how to do it correctly.
Choose the Right Wall
Not all walls are created equal for TV mounting:
- Drywall: Most common in homes. Use wall anchors rated for the TV weight
- Plaster: Older homes. More fragile; use specialized plaster anchors
- Concrete/Brick: Very sturdy but requires masonry drill bits and concrete anchors
- Tile: Doable but risky—requires specialist drilling and anchors
Avoid mounting TVs on walls containing pipes, electrical wiring, or plumbing. Use a stud finder to locate structural supports behind the wall.
Get the Height Right
TV height should be comfortable for viewing:
- Center of screen at or slightly below eye level when sitting
- Typically 55-65 inches from floor for a standard living room setup
- Tilt angle up slightly if mounting higher (less strain on neck)
- Avoid direct sunlight glare on the screen
Sit in your viewing spot and hold up a level to visualize the ideal height before drilling.
Cable Management
Hide cables to make your installation look professional:
- Cable conduit: Plastic tubing that runs along the wall (or inside walls if renovating)
- Cable clips: Small fasteners that keep cables neat along baseboards
- In-wall wiring: Professional installation runs cables inside the wall (requires drilling)
- Furniture concealment: Route cables behind entertainment furniture
Keep your cable runs simple—fewer connections mean fewer points of failure.
Safety Considerations
- Weight capacity: Mount must support at least 1.5x the TV's weight
- Use proper anchors: Don't skimp—a falling TV is dangerous and expensive
- Keep away from high-traffic areas: Reduces accidental bumping
- Ventilation: Leave space behind the TV for heat dissipation
- Secure the mount: Ensure no loose bolts or fasteners after installation
When to Call a Professional
Consider hiring an electrician or TV mounting specialist if:
- Your walls are concrete, brick, or plaster (drilling is difficult)
- You want cables hidden inside the wall
- Your TV is large (65" or bigger) and needs heavy-duty brackets
- You're uncomfortable with power tools or electrical work
Professional installation costs KES 3,000–8,000 but ensures safety and a polished look.
After Installation
- Check that the TV is level and secure
- Test all cables and connections
- Organize remotes, streaming devices, and cables neatly
- Consider installing a surge protector strip behind the TV
- Keep the installation receipt and warranty documentation
A properly mounted TV improves both the safety and aesthetics of your new home. Take your time, do it right, and enjoy a clean, professional setup.
