Your TV is a big part of your home — whether it's movie night, binge-watching, or gaming. But did you know that some everyday habits could be slowly wearing it down?
It's easy to overlook the little things, but small mistakes can cause long-term damage. Don't worry — Plaza Electronics & Appliances has your back! Let's walk through some everyday bad habits to avoid so your TV lasts longer and keeps looking sharp!
1. Avoid Using Harsh Cleaners
It might seem easy to grab glass cleaner when your TV gets smudged, but that can damage the screen. Harsh chemicals, like ammonia or alcohol, can strip away its protective coating, leading to streaks, discoloration, or scratches.
Instead, use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe the screen gently (an antistatic cloth will keep it cleaner longer!). For tougher spots, lightly dampen the cloth with water or use a cleaner made for electronics. Always avoid spraying anything directly on the screen to prevent damage.
2. Don't Max Out the Volume
We've all been there — turning the volume way up when dialogue is hard to hear or during a tense scene. But constantly cranking up the volume on your TV's built-in speakers can lead to distortion, blown speakers, or overall sound degradation.
For better quality audio, look for a soundbar or a surround sound setup to get the rich, immersive experience you're after. These options include features like dialogue enhancement or virtual surround sound, which create a fuller, more dynamic sound!
Pro Tip:
When shopping for a soundbar, look for one with HDMI ARC (Audio Return Channel) to control your TV and soundbar volume with one remote!
3. Don't Ignore Software Updates
It's tempting to dismiss those software update reminders, but ignoring them could cause your TV to miss out on important performance improvements, bug fixes, or even new features. Over time, failing to update your TV's software could lead to sluggish performance, lagging apps, or even security risks.
So, make sure your TV is set to update automatically or check for updates regularly. This will keep everything running smoothly without you having to lift a finger.
4. Stop Leaving Static Images on the Screen
Pausing a game or letting a news ticker run for hours might not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to burn-in — a permanent ghost image on your screen that's especially common in OLED and plasma TVs. This usually occurs after static images are left for several hours, especially at high brightness.
LED and LCD TVs can also experience temporary image retention, but following these same steps to prevent burn-in will help manage it!
To avoid burn-in:
- Turn off the TV or use a screen saver when you're not watching.
- Lower brightness during extended gaming or binge-watching sessions.
- Switch content or take breaks every couple of hours to prevent static images from lingering too long.
- Activate features like "pixel shift" or "screen refresh" to reduce the risk of burn-in.
5. Don't Neglect Proper Ventilation
Your TV needs room to breathe! TVs generate heat when they're on, and if placed in a confined space, the heat can build up and cause performance issues — or worse, damage to the internal components over time. So, to ensure your TV stays cool, follow these steps:
- Leave 4–6 inches of space around your TV for airflow.
- Avoid placing your TV in enclosed spaces, like cabinets or tight shelves, unless there's proper ventilation.
- Dust the vents regularly to ensure adequate airflow and prevent overheating.
Pro Tip:
Use an adjustable wall mount to tilt your TV slightly away from the wall, improving airflow and giving you better viewing angles.
6. Never Neglect Surge Protection
A power surge can happen instantly, but the damage it can cause to your TV could be permanent. Lightning storms, power outages, or even a flicker from a household appliance can send a voltage spike that fries your TV's internal parts.
Using a surge protector is an easy way to keep your TV safe. Look for one with at least 1,000 joules of protection, enough to absorb most spikes. For extra peace of mind, pick a surge protector with an automatic shutdown feature — it'll cut the power during a surge, keeping your TV and other devices protected.
7. Wall Mount Carefully
Mounting your TV can make your space look sleek and save room, but it can lead to serious headaches if it's not done right. A poorly mounted TV risks falling and could damage your wall or hurt someone. So, to avoid problems, follow these steps:
- Pick the right mount: Check the back of your TV for four screw holes arranged in a square or rectangle—that's your TV's VESA pattern. The mount you choose needs to match that pattern and be strong enough to support your TV's weight. If the mount isn't rated for your TV's size and weight, it could pull away from the wall or tilt over time.
- Secure it to studs: Always mount your TV to the wall studs (use a stud finder to know where to place the screws) and use proper anchors for added support.
- Check your setup: If your mount tilts or swivels, set the viewing angle before locking everything in place.
Not sure about doing it yourself? A pro can ensure it's done right, so you won't have to worry about your TV falling unexpectedly.
TLC = TV Loving Care!
By kicking a few bad habits, you can keep your TV running smoothly and looking sharp for years. But if your TV is experiencing problems, don't just deal with it; find your upgrade at Plaza Electronics & Appliances! We have a variety of top-brand TVs with all the latest features!
And if you have any questions, our team can help — call or stop by today!