What should I consider when mounting a TV above my fireplace?

Depending on the type and design of the fireplace, it might generate more heat than the TV is designed to handle. To find out, attach a thermometer to the wall above the fireplace while a fire is burning. Temperatures over 100 degrees F. are considered too high for most TV sets. Check the manual that comes with the TV to find the maximum temperature for your set. A wood-burning fireplace can emit smoke, ash, soot, and other particulate matter into the room. Since hot air rises, these contaminants will be drawn into your TV. Also, if the area over the fireplace wasn't prewired, electrical and transmission wires will need to be run in the wall above the fireplace -- and the same is true for cables for accessories, such as a DVD player or home theater system. This can be extremely difficult if the wall is brick.

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