Televisions are the focal point of most living rooms, and they play a significant role in the room’s arrangement. Is hanging your television directly across from a window a wise move? We investigated what the professionals had to say about this so you’ll know just what to do!
Placing your television in front of a window is not the optimal position. Watching tv in front of a window can be distracting and tasking on the eyes. Instead, select another room area where light is not an issue.
We’ve done the research and can assist you in determining what’s best for your situation! Please continue reading to learn why you shouldn’t put your TV in front of a window, where to put it, and other frequently asked questions.
Why Should You Avoid Placing a Television in Front of a Window
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Three reasons exist for people not to place a television in front of a window. The first is the natural light that streams in through the window.
You don’t want to watch TV with direct sunlight on your face. The light not only strains the eyes but also dims the screen’s brightness, making it harder to see what you’re watching.
The second reason is that you don’t want to obstruct the view out the window. Interestingly, it may be the only natural light source in your room. So placing a television in front of a window makes it difficult to reach the window and open, close, or pull the curtains.
Thirdly, placing a television in front of a window may cause it to break. Sunlight striking on the back of the tv may cause it to overheat. Also, if the window is left open, rain may fall on the television, inevitably damaging it.
How to Place a Television in Front of a Window
You can set a television in front of a window if you don’t have a better alternative. All you need to do is hang heavy blackout curtains over the window to block out light and improve insulation. Putting curtains on the windows will also keep passers-by from peeking at the back of your TV.
Now, let’s talk about some TV placement-related issues!
Should You Position a Television Opposite a Window?
If you aren’t comfortable placing a television in front of a window, how about putting it on the opposite wall, across from the window?
Again, this is not a good idea unless you cover the window with blackout curtains while watching television. The glare created by sunlight streaming through the window and onto the television will make it hard to see what you’re watching.
The exception is if the TV is mounted very high on the wall. The sunlight streaming through the window will angle downward and strike the bottom of the wall. The best thing to do is avoid the glare if you lift the TV high enough.
What is the Proper Height for Hanging a Television?
The height at which you hang your television is determined by the size of your space and the distance between your seating areas. We’ve all sat in the front row of a movie theater with our heads awkwardly tilted up. You may still need to glance up when seated further back, but eyes would no doubt properly match the screen.
Therefore, if you need to move furniture closer to the TV, the display device must be hung lower to be more at eye level. The TV can be hung higher if your seats can be pushed back.
So since the TV is mounted, you should also be able to tilt it downward. This allows you to hang it higher while still angling it down for easy viewing from your seat.
What is the Best Place for a Television in a Room?
Open your windows and scan the room for areas where the sunlight doesn’t strike the wall. There’s almost always a corner.
You can either purchase a corner-fitting TV stand or place the TV in the corner. You won’t be looking directly at the window because the TV is in the corner, which works well to minimize eye fatigue.
Where does one place a television when there is no wall?
When a TV wall mount is not an option, here are efficient ways to float your TV from the wall.
- Cabinetry can be used to conceal the back of the television.
- All components should be placed within the cabinet.
- Utilize a power strip within the cabinet to keep all cables and cords contained within.
- Electrical outlets installed on the floor are your friends.
What about Skylights?
The good thing is that skylights don’t pose an issue if the TV is not immediately beneath one. During the day, the light may be angled to strike the TV, but skylights typically shine directly down, filling the room rather than shining on the walls.
Other Considerations When Placing a Television
Apart from avoiding eye fatigue and glare, there are two other considerations when setting your television. The first is determining the physical location of outlets.
You’re going to need a location to plug in your television. You may also have to consider your DVD players, gaming consoles, or other devices. You wouldn’t want tangled-up cords that run across the room or down the wall.
If an extension cord is required to connect to another power outlet, you can route it beneath the carpet and connect it to a plug strip behind the television. The idea is to utilize as few cables as possible to disguise them and keep them out of the way.
The second important factor is to avoid placing the television directly across from the natural walkway. You don’t want people passing through the room and interfering with your television viewing experience. It can be very frustrating having people walk by frequently as your favorite sitcom is showing.
If possible, position the television in the corner farthest from a door or entrance to the room. Perhaps you can rearrange your furnishings so that people pass behind you rather than in front of you.
Is it necessary for your seat to face the television?
Yes, in general, chairs, couches, and sofas should face the television, though they don’t have to face it directly. You can position furniture at a slightly slanted angle to prevent people from turning their heads to see the TV. Sitting with your neck turned for extended period results in neck and shoulder cramps.
Furniture may be placed in front of a window as long as the sun doesn’t shine directly on the television. Generally, you want to avoid placing furniture next to a window along a wall since the light from the window will shine directly into the person’s face instead of behind them.
Conclusion
Since your television adds so much value to your life, it’s critical to locate it optimally. This implies you should avoid placing it in front of a window, as this will obstruct your view of the television.
Additionally, it will obstruct the window, decreasing the amount of natural light in your space. Instead, seek out a spot that is free of direct sunlight and fits into the flow of your space.
