World relies more and more on technology, and having a Smart TV is now common in most homes.
But it’s not just about buying a TV; it’s also about looking after it to make sure it lasts a long time and works its best.
Sadly, many TV owners often make mistakes that can harm their beloved TV.
In this article, I’ll walk you through some things you might be doing wrong that could be reducing the lifespan of your Smart TV.
Let’s move on…
1) Placing the TV in direct sunlight
Back when smart TVs were first introduced, they had a big problem with direct sunlight. TV companies told people not to put their TVs in direct sunlight.
Today, top TV makers like Samsung, LG, Sony, and Vizio say their TVs can handle direct sunlight without problems.
But is that true?
Well, only LCD TVs can handle direct sunlight. OLED and LED TVs can get hurt by UV rays and high temperatures.
Even so, too much direct sunlight can still hurt your TV screen, no matter if it’s LCD, LED, or OLED.
2) Mounting the TV above a Fireplace
I know, you may want to mount your TV above the fireplace to save some space.
But believe me, there couldn’t be a worse place to put a TV.
At first, mounting your TV above a fireplace may seem like an excellent idea, but it may ruin the life of your TV.
This is because when your fireplace is in use, smoke, and soot enter your TV screen, which then impacts the quality of the picture and even damages the screen.
Related: 6 Quick Tips to Boost Your TV’s Picture Quality
3) Spilling harsh chemicals on your TV screen
TV owners sometimes use strong chemicals like Ammonia or Alcohol to clean their screens, thinking they’ll do a better job. However, this can actually harm the TV.
Here’s a crucial tip: Never do this!
When cleaning your TV screen, only use a microfiber cloth with water or a vinegar solution.
4) Not using a Surge Protector
Sudden power surges are a frequent problem these days.
But if you don’t take precautions to secure your TV, you will end up crying over the damage.
A good surge protector can save your TV from this type of unwanted occurrence.
So if you haven’t purchased a surge protector for your TV yet, buy one now and set it up correctly
5) Attempting to repair your TV yourself
Some skilled folks possess the know-how to repair their home electronics, such as replacing burnt-out parts or fixing the backlight.
However, this is not common!
But if you lack these DIY skills, it’s best to avoid attempting such repairs.
Trying to fix a TV without the right DIY skills is a very tough and risky job. If you’re not familiar with electrical equipment, you could seriously hurt yourself or harm your TV irreparably.
It’s advisable to get in touch with a professional TV repair service to prevent any potential dangers.
6) Not keeping upright while moving
This is another big mistake that can seriously harm your TV.
Many TVs today have flat screens.
The problem with laying a flat-screen TV down is that it adds extra pressure to the screen and the TV’s weight can make the screen crack or break completely.
If you really need to lay your TV down, be sure to place something soft underneath it, like a cushion or a blanket.
This will help spread the weight evenly and protect the screen from getting damaged.
F.A.Q.s
Q. Is it okay to leave my TV on for extended periods of time?
It’s generally not recommended to leave your TV on for long periods when not in use.
Doing so can lead to screen burn-in and increase the overall power consumption, potentially shortening the lifespan of your TV.
Q. Is it fine to ignore software updates for my smart TV?
Ignoring software updates is a huge mistake.
These updates often include important bug fixes, security patches, and new features that enhance your TV’s performance and protect it from potential vulnerabilities.
Q. Can I clean the inside of my TV on my own?
No, don’t even try to do this ever!
The internal components are delicate and sensitive. If you suspect any issues or need maintenance, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance.
But as mentioned earlier, if you have proper knowledge and DIY skill, you are good to go!
Abdul Kader, a handy guy and experienced founder of a TV repair shop in Gulshan, Dhaka, Bangladesh. He is mainly an expert in understanding and repairing different types of issues with Smart TVs and providing helpful insights on how to keep them in good working order. Read his Full Story.