Comparison Of The Best Pull-Down TV Mounts For Fireplace Installation
Mounting a TV above a fireplace provides a clean, modern look for your living space. But craning your neck to watch TV from standard fixed mounts can quickly become uncomfortable. That's where pull-down TV mounts come in. These articulating mounts allow you to lower your TV to an optimal viewing position with just the touch of a button. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right pull-down mount for your fireplace?
We'll look at key factors like weight capacity, range of motion, cable management, and ease of installation. Read on for our picks for the best retractable mounts to install above your mantel.
Fireplace Compatibility
The first consideration when choosing a pull-down fireplace TV mount is compatibility with your specific fireplace. These specialty mounts are designed to withstand the heat generated by gas fireplaces, electric fireplaces, and even wood-burning fireplaces.
Look for a mount specifically made for fireplace installation, with a heat resistance rating of at least 150degF. The mount's placement will depend on your fireplace dimensions, so measure the area above your mantel carefully. Recessed mounting boxes keep the mount flush with the wall. Tilting and extension allow you to position the TV at a safe distance from the heat.
Weight Capacity
Consider the size and weight of the TV you want to mount. Pull-down fireplace mounts accommodate a wide range of TVs, typically from 32" up to 70" and up to 125 lbs. Make sure to choose a mount with a weight capacity well above your TV's specs for stability and safety.
Heavy duty mounts with dual articulating arms provide the strength needed to securely support larger flat screen TVs. The arms should glide smoothly up and down and allow the TV to stay fixed in position without drifting.
Range of Motion
Look for a full motion mount that articulates in different directions to achieve optimal viewing angles. At minimum, your mount should tilt and swivel. Tilt adjusts the vertical angle for reducing glare from lights or windows. Swivel lets you angle the TV left or right.
Extension arms that pull the TV away from the wall are also useful for getting the best line of sight from multiple seats. Some mounts allow up to a 24" extension. The more motion, the better the viewing experience.
Cable Management
Nothing ruins the clean look of a mounted TV faster than a tangle of exposed cables. Pull-down mounts with built-in cable management keep all those unsightly cords concealed inside the articulating arms.
Look for a pathway to neatly route cables from the TV through the mount. Some mounts have a power outlet built into the articulating arm for connecting the TV without showing any wires.
Ease of Installation
Installing a TV mount on the wall above your fireplace can be tricky. You'll need to drill into the wall studs, level the mount, and secure it safely. Mounts designed specifically for fireplace installation make this process easier.
Look for all the necessary hardware and clear instructions included. Tilting or swiveling wall plates allow you to adjust the mount if needed. You may want to enlist the help of a professional installer for this challenging project.
Additional Features
Other convenient extras can enhance your experience with a pull-down fireplace TV mount:
- IR, HDMI, and power pass-through keep connections hidden.
- Adjustable tilt fine-tunes angle for reduced glare.
- Decorative covers and panels create a built-in look.
- Some include sleek remotes to control TV lift and retraction.
Top Pull-Down TV Mounts
Based on the criteria above, here are our top picks for retractable TV mounts to install over your fireplace:
SANUS VLF728-B1 Full-Motion Mount
Our top pick is the SANUS VLF728-B1 full motion mount which supports TVs up to 70" and 125 lbs. The dual-arm system extends 26" from the wall and tilts 15deg for optimal angles. There's 180deg swivel for flexible side-to-side viewing too. We love the discretely concealed cables and power accessible from the arms. The mount comes in three colors and features polished chrome accents.
MantelMount MM540
The MantelMount MM540 is designed specifically for placement over fireplaces, with heat shields to protect your TV. It fits 40" to 60" TVs up to 110 lbs and extends 24" from the wall with -15deg to +5deg tilt. The pull-down and lift up function works smoothly and keeps cords organized inside the arms. This sturdy mount comes with a 5-year warranty.
Monoprice Adjustable Articulating TV Wall Mount
For a budget-friendly option, check out this retractable mount from Monoprice. It supports up to 55" TVs and 66 lbs with tilt, swivel, and 15.75" extension. The open arm design makes it easier to access cables. While not as sturdy as pricier mounts, it's a great affordable alternative.
VIVO RETRACTABLE-HS
VIVO's mount extends your TV up to 16" off the wall and tilts up to -15deg. It accommodates most 32" to 55" flat screens up to 88 lbs. Arms fold in when not in use for a discreet profile. Cable management clips keep cords out of sight. This is a great mid-range pull-down mount option for smaller TVs.
StarTech Long Extension Dual Arm Wall Mount
For larger TVs, StarTech's dual-swing arm mount supports up to 80" TVs and 132 lbs. With an impressive extension of up to 30", it's easy to achieve the perfect viewing position. The -25deg to +25deg tilt range also sets this mount apart. It's a top choice for big flat screens.
Adding a pull-down TV mount above your fireplace is a stylish choice to keep your living room looking sleek while enhancing your viewing comfort. Consider range of motion, weight capacity, fireplace compatibility, and built-in cable management when choosing the right retractable mount for your space and TV.
Quality mounts like the SANUS VLF728-B1 provide the flexibility and features for an optimal viewing experience. Take measurements and shop around to find the perfect pull-down fireplace TV mount for your needs and budget.