Mike Dolt Enterprises
Mike Dolt Enterprises
User: iwirehouses, Location: Logan, Utah
Asked on: Thursday, April 21, 2011 at 1:30 am EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 4:28 am EDT
Question: I have a customer that wants to mount a flat screen above a fire place and have the dvd/cable/home audio to the left of the fireplace on a shelf near the floor. He has his heart set on hiding all the wires. We're gonna put a receptacle behind the tv. receptacles behind the audio/cable/dvd. I was going to run a HDMI cable in the wall. It would enter right behind the cable box and come back out right behind the tv. The dvd/audio/cable are in a different bay then the tv, but close. I need to pass through one stud in the wall. I told them to use wire mold as a last resort. Try to really plan out what you need and we'll run it in the wall. I'd love to leave him something for future expansion. Where he can pop a wire in behind the dvd and have it pop out behind the tv.Any options/opinions/experiences on a good way to do this? I remember when wiring a million dollar house, I left a piece of smurf tube in the wall going from the cable box to the tv. I think smurf tube might be a bit too small. Any other options besides bending and trying to install 1 1/4 emt in the wall? Maybe I can do two runs of smurf tube... OK....critique me!
Options for Hiding Wires
1. In-Wall Wiring
Conduit
Use 1 1/4" EMT or similar conduit to run the HDMI cable through the wall. It provides protection and allows for future expansion.
Low-Voltage Raceway
Install a prefabricated low-voltage raceway behind the wall to conceal the HDMI cable. It offers a clean and organized appearance.
2. Wire Mold
Use wire mold as a last resort, but it provides a simple and flexible solution for covering exposed wires. Choose a wire mold that matches the wall color or décor for a discreet appearance.
3. Concealing in Mantel or Trim
If possible, run the HDMI cable through a hollow mantel or trim piece to hide it. This method depends on the availability of space and the design of the fireplace.
Future Expansion
Extra Conduit or Raceway
Install an additional conduit or raceway along with the HDMI cable to provide space for future expansion.
Access Panel
Consider installing an access panel behind the TV or in the wall to allow for future maintenance or additions.
Other Recommendations
Use High-Quality HDMI Cable
Choose an HDMI cable with a rated bandwidth of 18Gbps or higher to ensure optimal performance.
Plan the Route Carefully
Determine the exact location of the TV and audio/video components before running the wires.
Use Wall Fish
A wall fish can help guide the HDMI cable through tight spaces or around obstacles.
Consider Wireless Options
If running wires in the wall is impractical, explore wireless HDMI extenders or streaming devices.
Critique:
Your idea to use a piece of smurf tube is not recommended as it may not provide enough space for the HDMI cable and could restrict future expansion. Two runs of smurf tube could be an option, but it might be more challenging to install and could affect the signal quality. Flag for review