Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Hang A Flat Screen From The Ceiling

Flat-Screen TV








Flat-screen televisions continue to grow rapidly in popularity. As prices fall for slim designs and their technology advances, demand has significantly increased. One question many consumers ask after they purchase a flat-screen TV is, "Where do I put it?" Consumers typically place flat-screen TVs on stands or mount them on walls. Some, however, consider the ceiling a potential resting place for their new TV. While mounting a flat screen from a ceiling may sound complicated, the process is quite simple.


Instructions


Mounting a TV to the Ceiling


1. Purchase a mounting kit made specifically for mounting flat screens to ceilings. Ensure the mount is compatible with your TV's size by measuring the distance between the mounting holes on the back or side of your television with a measuring tape. It should also support your television's weight specifications. Mounting kits are available online or at most major electronics store.


2. Locate a general area on the ceiling where you want to mount the TV. Choose an area away from direct sun exposure and excessive humidity.


3. Use a stud finder to locate wooden joists in the ceiling. Turn on the stud finder and place it flat against the ceiling in the location you wish to use. Slowly move it from left to right, until you detect a ceiling joist. Once a joist is located, use a pencil to mark the location. Make a mark every few inches of the joist's length. Depending on the type of mount used, you may need to locate one or two joists for proper mounting.


4. Place the mount against the ceiling, visually ensuring that the holes in the mount line up with the pencil markings for the stud. Hold the mount in this position as a template, and use a pencil to mark all screw holes onto the ceiling area. Remove the mount and double-check that all pencil marks line up with the joist, and match the mount's screw pattern exactly. These marks will serve as a guide for the drill.


5. Use an electric drill to make holes in the ceiling and joist area where you marked. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for choosing an appropriate drill bit size.


6. Place the mount against the ceiling area, and visually match up the drilled holes with the holes in the mount. They should match up perfectly. Attach the mount to the ceiling by using the screws that came with the mounting kit. Use a screwdriver (or wrench), and turn each screw clockwise. Repeat this process for each screw provided in the mounting kit until you secure the mount.








7. Attach the television to the mount by using the screws provided. Tighten each screw to secure the television to the mount. Gently touch the television and mount to ensure it does not move or feel unstable. Then plug in the television and check for proper operation.

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