We all love our TVs. They're the centerpiece of your living room, the hub of family movie nights, and the go-to spot for binge-watching your favorite shows. We spend hours staring at it, laughing at it, and sometimes even yelling at it (no judgments here). But despite how much we use and love our TVs, we often take them for granted.
It's easy to assume they're indestructible, but the truth is, there are plenty of ways to accidentally damage or ruin your TV. Things like where you place it, how you clean it, and even how long it stays on can all affect its performance over time. To help you keep your TV running smoothly for years, here are 11 things you should never do to your television—and a few of them might surprise you!
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Using harsh chemicals like window cleaners or all-purpose cleaners on your TV screen can cause serious damage. These products can strip away the protective coating on your TV, leading to discoloration or screen damage over time.
Instead, use a microfiber cloth to gently wipe the screen, and if needed, dampen the cloth with a bit of water or a cleaner specifically designed for electronics. This will prevent streaks and protect the integrity of your screen, keeping your picture quality sharp.
Related: Tips On How to Clean a Flat-Screen TV Screen the Right Way
Improper mounting can lead to serious accidents or damage to your TV. If you don’t use the correct mounting hardware or fail to secure it properly, your TV could fall and break. It is therefore important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and to hire a professional if you are uncertain about how to proceed.
Additionally, make sure the mount is attached to studs in the wall, as drywall alone won’t support the weight of a TV. A securely mounted TV not only looks great but also ensures safety and longevity.
Static images, like channel logos or video game menus, can cause burn-in, especially on plasma and OLED screens. Burn-in appears as a faint ghost image permanently etched onto the display. To prevent this, avoid pausing content for long periods and activate screen savers when not actively watching. Consider using a screensaver with moving elements to further minimize the risk.
Also, leaving your TV on for extended periods can reduce its lifespan and increase your energy bill. Modern TVs are designed to be energy-efficient, but they still consume power when turned on. Try to turn off your TV when not in use, or use a power-saving feature like auto-shutoff or sleep mode.
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Unplugging your TV during a software update can cause serious problems, including bricking the device. When an update is in progress, the TV is reconfiguring its internal software, and interrupting this process can lead to corruption or deletion of critical files. Always wait for the update to complete before turning off or unplugging your TV. If you're unsure whether an update is in progress, check your TV's menu or wait for a confirmation message.
TV screens, especially LCD and OLED panels, are sensitive to pressure. Poking or jabbing the screen can damage the pixels and create permanent dead spots. Avoid using your fingers or any sharp objects to point at the screen. If you have children, educate them about the importance of gentle handling.
If you need to adjust or move your TV, handle it by the edges or use a soft cloth to avoid direct contact with the screen. This helps maintain its visual clarity and prevents long-term damage.
