How to Hide Your Cable Box Behind Your Mounted TV: Tips and Tricks
If you’re sick of staring at a jumble of tangled wires and a bulky cable box every time you sit down to enjoy your favorite movie or TV show, you’re not alone. Luckily, there are several methods you can use to hide your cable box behind your mounted TV – and create a sleek, clutter-free viewing experience that will make you never want to leave your couch.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to hide your cable box behind your mounted TV:
Method 1: Install an In-Wall Cable Management System
One of the most popular methods for hiding cable boxes behind a mounted TV is through an in-wall cable management system. This entails running cables behind the wall to create a clean and seamless look. Before you begin, make sure to measure the distance between your mounted TV and the nearest outlet in order to select the appropriate length of the cables. Here are the basic steps:
- Turn off all devices: To ensure your safety, unplug all devices from the wall outlet before starting any work.
- Cut holes: Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall, and then cut holes behind your mounted TV and at the lowest point of the wall where the cable box will be placed.
- Route cables: Run cables from behind the TV to the outlet where the cable box will be located. Use a fish tape to guide the cables through the wall or hire a professional installer to help you with this step.
- Install the wall plates: After the cables are in place, install the wall plates on both ends of the cables to provide a neat finish.
- Connect the cables: Connect the cables to both your TV and cable box, and then turn everything on.
Method 2: Use an IR Extender
If you don’t want to go through the hassle of installing an in-wall cable management system, you can use an IR extender. This device allows you to connect your cable box to your TV without any visible cables. Here’s how it works:
- Choose an IR extender: Select an IR extender that is compatible with your cable box and TV.
- Connect the IR extender: Connect the IR extender to the cable box, and then place the IR sensors on or beside your TV. This will allow the cable box to receive signals from your TV’s remote control even though it’s hidden behind it.
- Hide the cable box: Place the cable box in a TV cabinet, underneath a shelf, or anywhere else you like. As long as the IR sensors are in place, you won’t need to see the box at all.
Method 3: Mount Your Cable Box Behind Your TV
Another way to keep your cable box out of sight is to attach it behind your TV. This method is relatively easy and involves mounting the cable box to the back of your TV using Velcro strips or brackets. Here are the basic steps:
- Clean the back of your TV: Wipe down the back of your TV to ensure that it’s free of dust and debris.
- Attach the Velcro: Attach one side of the Velcro strips to the back of your cable box and the other side to the back of your TV.
- Attach the brackets: For added support, attach brackets to the back of your TV and cable box using screws.
- Connect the cables: Connect the cables to both the cable box and TV. Then turn everything on and enjoy your cable-free TV experience.
In conclusion, hiding your cable box behind your mounted TV is not only possible, but it can also help improve the overall appearance of your living room. Whether you choose to install an in-wall cable management system, use an IR extender, or mount your cable box to your TV, you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy your favorite shows without any distracting cables or clutter. |