Is your TV mounted too low on the wall? Maybe you have to look down while watching your favourite shows, or the screen feels awkwardly positioned above your TV stand. The good news is that you may be able to fix the problem without completely redesigning your entertainment area.
The ideal TV mounting height depends on your viewing position, screen size, room layout, and personal comfort. In this guide, we will explain how to determine whether your TV is too low, what causes the problem, and how to adjust your TV wall mount safely.
1. How Do You Know If Your TV Is Mounted Too Low?
A TV may be too low if your viewing position feels unnatural or the screen is difficult to see comfortably.
Common signs include:
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You regularly tilt your head downward to watch the screen.
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The bottom of the TV sits very close to the floor or furniture.
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Your TV stand blocks part of the screen.
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The screen feels too low when you watch TV from your sofa or bed.
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The TV position does not work well with your room's seating arrangement.
However, a lower TV position is not necessarily a problem. Many people prefer a screen positioned closer to eye level while seated, rather than mounting it high on the wall.
The goal is to find a comfortable viewing height that suits your room and how you use your TV.
2. What Is the Ideal Height for a Wall-Mounted TV?
A useful starting point is to position the centre of the TV screen approximately at seated eye level.
For many living rooms, this means measuring the height of your eyes while sitting on your sofa and comparing it with the centre of the screen. The exact position will vary depending on your furniture, screen size, and viewing habits.
Here is how to estimate the appropriate height:
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Sit in your usual viewing position.
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Measure the distance from the floor to your eyes.
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Measure the height of your TV screen.
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Divide the screen height by two to find its centre.
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Position the screen so its centre is near your seated eye level, adjusting for comfort.
Example: If your seated eye level is 42 inches from the floor and your TV screen is 28 inches tall, the screen's centre could be positioned around 42 inches high. The bottom edge would then sit approximately 28 inches from the floor.
These measurements are a starting point, not a strict rule. A higher position may be appropriate in certain rooms, especially when viewing from a bed or a raised seating area.
3. Why Is Your TV Wall Mount Too Low?
Before changing the mounting position, identify what caused the problem. This can help you avoid making another unnecessary adjustment.
Incorrect initial measurements
If you measured the wall rather than your seated eye level, the TV may have been installed lower than intended.
TV stand height was not considered
A TV stand, soundbar, or other furniture may affect how high the screen needs to sit. Failing to account for these items can result in an awkward arrangement.
The wrong mounting holes were used
Some TVs have multiple VESA mounting holes on the rear panel. Depending on the TV and bracket design, the selected holes can affect the final screen position.
The wall mount has limited adjustment
A fixed TV mount holds the screen in one position. If you need more flexibility, a compatible tilting or full-motion mount may offer a better solution, although these mounts do not automatically raise the TV.
The TV was installed too close to the furniture
The screen may look too low because it sits close to a tall cabinet or entertainment unit. In some cases, rearranging the furniture can improve the viewing experience without moving the TV.
4. How to Fix a TV Wall Mount That Is Too Low
The right solution depends on your current mount, wall construction, and how far the screen needs to move.
Option 1: Check whether the mount allows height adjustment
Some TV mounts feature a height-adjustable bracket or mounting rails that allow the TV to be repositioned within a specified range.
Check the manufacturer's instructions to determine whether your model supports vertical adjustment.
If adjustment is possible, follow the manufacturer's procedure and ensure the TV remains securely supported throughout the process.
Option 2: Reposition the wall mount
If the mount cannot provide enough height adjustment, you may need to reinstall it higher on the wall.
Before drilling new holes:
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Measure the desired screen position.
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Confirm the TV's dimensions and VESA mounting pattern.
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Locate suitable wall studs or use an appropriate mounting system for the wall construction.
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Check for electrical wiring, plumbing, and other hidden services before drilling.
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Verify that the new position is compatible with the mount's installation requirements.
Never assume that existing anchors or holes are suitable for a new mounting position. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for fasteners and load limits.
Because TVs can be heavy and awkward to handle, have another person assist you when removing or reinstalling the screen. If you are unsure about the wall structure or installation, consider hiring a qualified installer.
Option 3: Consider a different TV wall mount
If your existing mount does not provide the positioning you need, replacing it may be the most practical solution.
Depending on your room and TV, you could consider:
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Fixed TV mounts: A simple option for a TV that will remain in one position.
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Tilting TV mounts: Useful when you need to angle the screen downward or reduce glare. Tilting does not necessarily increase the TV's height.
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Full-motion TV mounts: Allow the TV to extend, swivel, and tilt within the mount's supported range. Some models also provide vertical adjustment, but this feature must be confirmed before purchase.
Before choosing a replacement, check your TV's screen size, weight, VESA pattern, and the mount's supported adjustment range.
Option 4: Reconsider your furniture arrangement
If moving the TV is difficult, a small change to your viewing setup may help.
Consider adjusting the sofa position, changing the height of the entertainment unit, or moving accessories that obstruct the screen. Make sure the new arrangement maintains a comfortable viewing angle and does not create a safety hazard.
Avoid placing a heavy TV on an unstable surface or using improvised spacers to raise a wall-mounted screen.
5. Can You Raise a TV Without Drilling New Holes?
Sometimes, yes. It depends on the design of your existing mount.
If your bracket includes approved vertical adjustment, you may be able to raise the TV without moving the wall plate. Some mounts also use vertical rails that provide a range of mounting positions.
However, if your mount is fixed and offers no height adjustment, raising the TV may require repositioning the wall plate or installing a different compatible mount.
Do not loosen mounting hardware while the TV is unsupported, and never use makeshift extensions or spacers that are not approved by the mount manufacturer.
6. What to Check Before Moving Your TV Higher
Raising your TV too far can create a new viewing problem. Before making changes, review the following:
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Viewing comfort: Make sure the screen remains comfortable to watch from your normal seating position.
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TV size: A larger screen may require more wall space and careful positioning.
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VESA compatibility: Confirm that the TV's mounting-hole pattern matches the bracket.
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Weight capacity: The mount must support the TV's weight within its specified limits.
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Wall construction: Ensure the mounting system is appropriate for the wall material and installation location.
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Cable length: Check whether HDMI, power, and other cables will reach the new position without being stretched.
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Nearby objects: Consider fireplaces, shelves, windows, and soundbars before drilling.
If your TV is mounted above a fireplace, take extra care to consider heat exposure and viewing ergonomics before changing its position.
7. When Should You Replace Your TV Wall Mount?
A mount that is simply positioned too low may not need replacing. However, a new mount may be appropriate if your current bracket is damaged, incompatible with your TV, or unable to provide the adjustment you require.
Look for a replacement that clearly lists its supported TV weight, VESA patterns, compatible screen sizes, and adjustment features.
If the existing mount is loose, bent, damaged, or pulling away from the wall, stop using it until the installation has been assessed and made safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should a TV be mounted above eye level?
For many living rooms, positioning the centre of the screen near seated eye level is a useful starting point. A higher position may suit some rooms, but prolonged viewing at an uncomfortable angle can be unpleasant.
Can a tilting TV mount fix a TV that is too low?
Not necessarily. A tilting mount changes the screen angle, not automatically its height. Check whether the model includes a separate vertical adjustment feature.
How high should a 55-inch TV be mounted?
There is no single ideal height for every 55-inch TV. Measure your screen height and seated eye level, then use the screen centre as a starting point. The final position depends on your seating arrangement and comfort.
Can I reuse the same holes when raising my TV mount?
Do not assume the existing holes or anchors can be reused. Their suitability depends on the wall structure, fasteners, load requirements, and manufacturer's installation instructions. New positioning may require a different mounting arrangement.
Is a full-motion TV mount better than a fixed mount?
It depends on your needs. A fixed mount works well when the viewing position is straightforward. A full-motion mount offers more flexibility for swivelling and tilting, but it must still match your TV and wall installation requirements.
Find the Right TV Mount with NoviqHive
A comfortable TV setup starts with the right mounting position and compatible hardware. Before purchasing a new mount, measure your viewing area, check your TV's specifications, and consider how much adjustment you need.
Explore NoviqHive's TV mounting accessories to find a solution that fits your TV, wall, and entertainment space.
With the right measurements and a suitable mount, you can create a more comfortable and practical home entertainment setup.