The Great TV Over Fireplace Dilemma: When It's Too High, What’s the Fix?

So you’ve installed your brand-new TV above the fireplace. Sleek? Absolutely. Functional? Not so much. If you're experiencing neck strain just trying to enjoy your favorite show or family movie night has turned into a chin-up contest, you're not alone. Many homeowners love the clean, modern look of having a TV over a fireplace, but there’s one major catch — if it’s too high, it becomes more of an art piece than a viewing screen.

Table of Contents

• Why Is the TV Too High Over a Fireplace?
• Common Problems with a High TV Setup
• 5 Clever Solutions for Lowering Your TV (Without Demolishing the Wall)
• Buyer’s Guide: Best Products for Fixing High TVs Over Fireplaces
• Design Tips to Make It Work Even If You Can’t Move It
• Conclusion: Don’t Let a High TV Ruin Family Fun

Why Is the TV Too High Over a Fireplace?

Traditionally, fireplaces were focal points in living rooms long before television entered the scene. Fast forward to today, and many designers still suggest placing the TV above the mantel to maintain a streamlined aesthetic. But here’s the rub:

• Average eye level when sitting is between 36–42 inches from the floor.
• The center of the TV should ideally be at that same height for comfortable viewing.
• Fireplace mantels typically start around 48 inches off the ground, making the TV way too high.

Measurement	Average Recommendation	Typical Mantel Height
Eye Level (Seated)	36-42”	48”+
Center of TV	At Eye Level	Too High

Fig. 1 - Ideal TV Viewing Height vs. Standard Mantel Height

Common Problems with a High TV Setup

Putting your TV too high might seem like a stylish solution, but practically speaking, it can cause several issues:

• Neck Pain: Constant upward gazing during long viewing sessions causes fatigue and discomfort.
• Poor Viewing Angle: Tilted angles reduce picture quality, especially on LED/OLED screens which are sensitive to off-axis viewing.
• Inflexibility: Once mounted, adjusting the height later may require cutting drywall or repositioning the fireplace surround.
• Kids’ Frustration: Young viewers may struggle to see the screen clearly, leading to complaints and disinterest.

Fig. 2 - Classic case of “watching TV with your chin”

5 Clever Solutions for Lowering Your TV (Without Demolishing the Wall)

Luckily, all hope isn’t lost! Here are some smart, easy-to-install fixes to get your TV down to eye level without tearing apart your wall or starting a DIY war with drywall dust:

1. Use a Tilting or Full-Motion Mount

• Swivel mounts allow downward tilt
• Look for mounts with at least 15° of tilt for better viewing angle
• Full-motion arms let you extend and lower the TV slightly

2. Install a Drop Ceiling Panel or Decorative Shroud

Create a false ceiling panel below the mantel level. This allows you to recess the TV into a custom frame that brings it visually (and physically) lower.

Fig. 3 - Creative use of architectural elements to lower TV visually

3. Build a Custom Mantel Shelf Below the Existing One

Add a floating shelf just below eye level where the TV can sit. Keep the original mantel as decor and place the TV on the new, lower shelf. Bonus points for hiding wires inside the structure!

4. Recess the TV Into the Wall

If structural changes are on the table, consider cutting a niche in the wall below the mantel for the TV. Frame it with molding or stone to blend seamlessly into the fireplace surround.

5. Opt for a Motorized Lift System

This techy option lets you raise and lower the TV with the press of a button. When not in use, it disappears into the wall or cabinet, keeping your space elegant and clutter-free.

Fig. 4 - Motorized TV lift systems offer both function and flair

Buyer’s Guide: Best Products for Fixing High TVs Over Fireplaces

If you're ready to fix your sky-high TV situation, here are some recommended products to consider based on your setup type:

Best Tilting Wall Mount: Sanus Premium Full-Motion Wall Mount

• Tilt: Up to 15° downward
• Swivel: 90° side to side
• Extends up to 24” from wall
• Works with most VESA patterns
• Price Range: $120-$200
• Best For: Homeowners who want flexibility without permanent changes

Fig. 5 - Sanus full motion mount offers tilt and reach

Top Pick for Motorized Lifts: Murrary Motorized TV Lift Cabinet

• Smooth electric lift mechanism
• Customizable finishes and sizes
• Hides TV completely when not in use
• Can double as entertainment console
• Price Range: $700-$1,500
• Best For: Design-conscious families looking for elegance and function

Budget-Friendly Floating Shelf: Walker Edison Floating Wall Shelf

• Easy to install
• Sturdy weight capacity (up to 100 lbs)
• Available in wood and metal finishes
• Price Range: $50-$100
• Best For: Renters or those wanting a non-permanent solution

Design Tips to Make It Work Even If You Can’t Move It

If moving or lowering the TV isn't an option right now, here are some clever design tricks to make the best of the situation:

• Paint the area behind the TV a darker color to draw the eye downward.
• Add vertical interest below the TV — artwork, lighting, or built-ins that balance the composition.
• Use angled seating to align sightlines with the screen.
• Opt for smaller, higher-resolution screens that feel closer even when they’re not.
• Add ambient lighting near the TV to reduce eye strain from overhead brightness.

Conclusion: Don’t Let a High TV Ruin Family Fun

Having a TV over a fireplace doesn’t have to mean aching necks and disappointed kids. With a few clever adjustments and smart product choices, you can keep your stylish mantel setup while ensuring comfort for every member of the family. Whether you opt for a tilting mount, motorized lift, or creative shelving, the key is to prioritize usability without sacrificing aesthetics.

And remember: the goal of home decor is to create spaces that are beautiful and functional. So go ahead — kick back, relax, and finally enjoy that Netflix binge without cricking your neck.