Mounting a TV above the fireplace looks incredible — it's the centerpiece of the room and the focal point everyone naturally looks at. But it comes with real considerations around heat, viewing angle, and safety that you should understand before committing.
The Pros
- Takes advantage of existing focal point in the room
- Saves floor and furniture space
- Creates a dramatic, high-end look
- Keeps the TV out of reach of children
The Cons
The biggest concern is neck strain. Viewing a TV that's 6+ feet off the floor while seated puts your neck at an uncomfortable upward angle. A tilting mount can help bring the screen closer to eye level.
Heat is the second concern. Electric fireplaces produce minimal heat and are generally safe. Gas and wood-burning fireplaces produce significant heat and smoke that can damage electronics over time. Always measure the temperature at TV height when the fireplace is running.
Safety Rule
If the temperature at TV height exceeds 100°F (38°C) when the fireplace is on, do not mount a TV there without proper heat shielding installed above the firebox opening.
What We Recommend
For electric fireplaces: go for it. Use a tilting mount to angle the screen down and keep the viewing experience comfortable. For gas fireplaces: have a professional assess heat output at height before proceeding. We do this assessment as part of every above-fireplace installation.