Besides running into issues with incorrectly framed fireplaces that make it hard to install a TV on, Another issue we run into frequently is outlets that are in the wrong place above a fireplace. When they’re in the wrong place they interfere with the ability to mount a TV above the fireplace in the exact position the homeowner wants it. We often run into this issue. As a builder you want to ensure outlets are installed correctly over a fireplace.
Do not place the outlets in the center
The best place for an outlet on the fireplace, is not in the center of the fireplace. If the outlets are place in the center, we run into the issue that the center parts of a TV mount are typically solid, and would be blocking the outlets. To get around this issue we then often end up having to mount the TV higher, or lower than the homeowner wants it to go (typically higher).
Incorrectly places outlets above a fireplace
The other issue we run into with outlets that are placed in the center is the same issue with the center stud, we’re not able to install a pull down TV mount as they require the center of area above the fireplace to be open.
Ideally outlets are placed on the outside of the studs that are offset from the center as explained in this blog article. That gets them about 9-10″ away from the center of the fireplace which is ideal for most mounts to fit around them if needed.
Correctly Placed outlets above a fireplace
Outlets placed too low
Outlets that are placed too low above the fireplace mantel also result into issues. If they’re too close to the mantel, it would require us to mount a TV too low to ensure the outlets get covered up by the TV so they’re not visible. Ideally outlets are placed 30″ above the fireplace mantel. This allows for adequate space to mount a TV mount and the TV to cover up those outlets much more easily.
Summary
To summarize, to ensure outlets are installed correctly over a fireplace, ideally outlets are placed off center above the fireplace and approximately 30″ above the fireplace mantel.
