Mounting a TV above a fireplace seems stylish and saves space, but the question is: how high should it be? Get it wrong, and you’ll end up with neck strain or poor viewing angles. The right mounting height balances comfort, viewing quality, and safety. In this guide, we’ll break down the ideal height for mounting a TV over a fireplace, plus the tools and mounts that make installation easier.
Quick Picks: Best TV Mounts for Over a Fireplace
- Best Overall — MantelMount MM540 Pull-Down TV Mount
Perfect for fireplace setups with vertical motion, swivel, and heat-sensing handles. - Best Budget — Mounting Dream Full-Motion TV Mount
Affordable wall mount with tilt and swivel functions for flexible viewing angles. - Best Premium — MantelMount MM700 Pro
Heavy-duty mount with gas springs, pull-down motion, and premium build quality.
Buyer’s Guide: Determining TV Height Over a Fireplace
Here are the main factors to consider before mounting your TV:
- Eye Level: Ideally, the center of your screen should be at eye level when seated, usually about 42–48 inches from the floor.
- Fireplace Height: If your mantel is tall, you may need a pull-down mount to lower the TV when watching.
- Screen Size: Larger TVs require lower mounting to keep the top of the screen within a comfortable angle.
- Viewing Distance: Your seating distance affects how high the screen can be without discomfort.
- Heat Concerns: Always test heat output above the fireplace—excess heat can damage electronics.
- Mount Type: Pull-down and tilt mounts are best for fireplace installations.
Detailed Reviews: Best Fireplace TV Mounts
MantelMount MM540 Pull-Down TV Mount
Who it’s for: Homeowners who want easy pull-down adjustment and safe fireplace mounting.
- Key Benefits: Pull-down, swivel, heat-sensing handles, easy lift assist.
- Pros: Smooth movement, safe for over-fireplace use, sturdy design.
- Cons: Higher cost than basic mounts.
Final Verdict: The best overall choice for mounting TVs over fireplaces. Check price here.
Mounting Dream Full-Motion TV Mount
Who it’s for: Budget-conscious buyers who want tilt and swivel without spending much.
- Key Benefits: Tilt, swivel, easy install, holds up to 99 lbs.
- Pros: Affordable, flexible angles, simple design.
- Cons: No pull-down feature, not ideal for very high fireplaces.
Final Verdict: A good option if your mantel is not too high. See it on Amazon.
MantelMount MM700 Pro
Who it’s for: Buyers who want premium features and top performance.
- Key Benefits: Gas springs, extended swivel, auto-stabilization, heavy-duty build.
- Pros: Smooth, effortless adjustment, ideal for large TVs, pro-level design.
- Cons: Premium price, requires professional installation.
Final Verdict: A luxury mount designed for serious home theaters. Check availability.
Comparison Table: Best TV Mounts for Over a Fireplace
| Model | Features | Best For | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| MantelMount MM540 | Pull-down, swivel, heat-sensing handles | Best Overall | View |
| Mounting Dream Full-Motion | Tilt & swivel, budget-friendly | Best Budget | View |
| MantelMount MM700 Pro | Gas springs, premium build, wide range | Best Premium | View |
FAQ: Mounting a TV Over a Fireplace
1. What is the recommended height for mounting a TV over a fireplace?
The bottom of the TV should be about 42–48 inches from the floor, but above a fireplace you may need to adjust. A pull-down mount helps lower the screen for comfortable viewing.
2. Is it safe to mount a TV above a fireplace?
Yes, as long as you check that the heat above the fireplace doesn’t exceed safe levels. Hold your hand above the mantel—if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your TV.
3. Do I need a special mount for fireplaces?
Yes. Pull-down mounts like MantelMount are specifically designed for this purpose. Standard fixed mounts often place the TV too high.
4. What screen size works best above a fireplace?
Most mounts handle TVs from 50–75 inches. Larger TVs should be paired with heavy-duty pull-down mounts for stability and comfort.
Conclusion
So, how high should a TV be mounted over a fireplace? The sweet spot is when the center of the screen sits close to eye level—about 42–48 inches from the floor. Since fireplaces raise that height, the smartest solution is a pull-down mount that lets you enjoy perfect viewing angles while keeping your living room stylish. Choose one of the mounts above, and you’ll never have to crane your neck again.