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Never Expose the Mess o’ Wires

Nothing is less attractive than sitting down to watch your crisp, high-def TV, only to be distracted by an ugly mess of wires. It may be stressful to untangle and organize those wires and cables, but it’s even more stressful to look at them all the time.

Wiring the TV correctly is an important first step. Hiding the ugly wires is a critical second step. Try sneaking them into your TV stand, zip-tying some together, or hide them by DIYing this clever and simply contraption.

7 / 11

Never Forget the Surge Protector

If you bought your TV from a retail store with the help of a salesperson, it’s likely you heard a pitch for an extra powerful and fancy surge protector. While you don’t need the $100+ option, you definitely need an option.

So if you haven’t purchased a surge protector for your TV, buy one now and set it up correctly. It will protect your TV and other expensive devices from any surge of power that could destroy them. If you really want to play it safe, then consider getting a house surge protector.

8 / 11

Never Choose an Awkward Placement on the Wall

If you gather your crew to watch World Series Game 7, award shows or the Olympics, you’ll need to make sure everyone can settle in and see the screen. Too often, TVs are placed too high or too low, giving your audience stiff necks. Guidelines say 56 inches from floor to center of TV for a 42-inch TV, 61 inches for a 55-inch TV and 67 inches for a 70-inch TV.

Another awkward placement: The TV seems correctly positioned, but glare from the afternoon sun prevents actually seeing the afternoon game. Make sure you considered how natural light affects your viewing, unless you don’t mind covering the windows with shades, blinds or curtains. Try these seven genius ideas to get everyone in front of the TV.

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