Install a Flat-Screen Television

• Step 1 Choose the location

  When deciding where to hang the television, ask the following:

  • Where are the studs inside the wall? The television should be centered on a stud or across two studs, depending on its weight. 
  • Can you see the television from any seat in the room, and is it at eye level when you're seated?
  • Will light from a window create glare?
  • Is it close to electrical and cable outlets?
  • Is there enough space around the television for air circulation? Refer to the owner's manual for recommended spacing; usually it's about 12 inches above the television and 4 inches on the other sides.

  To easily experiment with different placements, create a template from cardboard and tape it to the wall. For an idea of how much glare to expect, cover the template with aluminum foil and see how much light it reflects.
  

• Step 2 Get brackets and cables

  Refer to the owner's product manual to learn which mounting brackets are suited to your television. You can also look them up at http://sears.mountslocator.com. Three types of mounts are available:

  • A flat wall mount hangs the television flush with the wall.
  • A tilting mount allows you to angle the television up or down about 15 degrees.
  • An articulating mount lets you tilt and swivel the television.

  Mounting bracket kits include the anchor bolts and other hardware you need.

  Also get any cables you need to connect other devices. Your salesperson can help. Another good source is the Consumer Electronics Association's connections guide. Here are some possibilities:

  • One or more HDMI cables
  • An antennae if you don't have cable
  • A USB 2.0 device for accessing pictures, video and MP3 files that are on your laptop
  • A surge protector, preferably one that conserves energy when electronics are turned off.
    

• Step 3 Locate the studs

  The weight of the television determines whether you can mount it into one stud or must mount it into two studs. In either case, the bracket attaches at two points per stud.

  Using the stud finder, locate the studs in the wall where you plan to hang the television and lightly mark each stud's location with the pencil.
  

• Step 4 Attach the TV bracket

  

  Gently lay the television face down on a soft surface, such as a folded blanket.  Attach the mounting bracket to the back of the television, following the directions that come with the mounting bracket kit.

• Step 5 Attach the wall bracket

  

  Hold the bracket to the wall and rest the level on it to make sure it's parallel to the floor. Mark the locations for the anchor bolts with a pencil. Drill the pilot holes and then attach the bracket to the wall with the anchor bolts. Use a wrench to tighten the bolts. Test the mounting bracket to make sure it is securely fastened.

  For instructions specific to your mounting bracket kit, refer to the product information that came with it.
  

• Step 6 Mount the TV to the wall

  This step requires at least one helper — and ideally two — because the television's weight and size make it awkward to hang.

  Connect all cables to the back of the television. Then, with a helper, lift the television from the bottom and slide the bracket on the back of the television into the bracket on the wall. When all connecting points align, gently lower the television until the safety tabs lock.
  

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