Local Service near Crawley 

1.      How do you mount a TV and hide wires?

Mounting a TV and hiding the wires involves several steps to ensure a secure installation and a clean, uncluttered look. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Materials Needed:

• TV mount kit
• Stud finder
• Drill and appropriate drill bits
• Level
• Screwdriver
• Tape measure
• Pencil
• Cable management kit (in-wall or external)
• Power drill
• Fish tape or wire puller

Steps to Mount the TV:

1. Choose the Mount and Location:
• Select a suitable TV mount (fixed, tilting, or full-motion) based on your needs.
• Choose a location on the wall, preferably centered at a comfortable viewing height.
2. Find Wall Studs:
• Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. Mark the locations with a pencil.
• It's crucial to mount the TV bracket to the studs for secure support.
3. Attach the Mount to the Wall:
• Hold the wall mount up to the wall and align it with the studs. Use a level to ensure it is straight.
• Mark the drilling points for the mount's screws.
• Drill pilot holes into the studs at the marked points.
• Attach the mount to the wall using the provided screws and a screwdriver or power drill.
4. Attach the Mounting Bracket to the TV:
• Lay the TV face down on a soft surface.
• Attach the mounting brackets to the back of the TV using the screws provided in the mount kit.
• Ensure the brackets are securely fastened.
5. Mount the TV:
• With the help of another person, lift the TV and align the mounting brackets with the wall mount.
• Secure the TV to the wall mount according to the mount kit's instructions.

Steps to Hide the Wires:

1. Plan the Cable Route:
• Decide whether you will run the cables through the wall (in-wall cable management) or use external cable covers.
2. In-Wall Cable Management:
• Cut Openings: Use a drywall saw to cut openings in the wall behind the TV and near the outlet where the cables will exit.
• Install Cable Pass-Through Plates: Attach cable pass-through plates to the openings. These plates help keep the cables organized and protect the wall.
• Run the Cables: Use a fish tape or wire puller to pull the cables through the wall from the upper opening to the lower opening.
• Connect the Cables: Plug the cables into the TV and the respective devices.
3. External Cable Covers:
• Install Cable Covers: Attach adhesive-backed cable covers to the wall along the route of the cables. These covers can be painted to match the wall color.
• Run the Cables: Place the cables inside the covers and snap them closed.
• Connect the Cables: Plug the cables into the TV and the respective devices.

Final Touches:

• Test the Setup: Ensure that the TV is securely mounted and that all cables are properly connected and functioning.
• Tidy Up: Organize any excess cable length and secure it with cable ties.

Following these steps will help you achieve a clean and professional look for your mounted TV and hidden wires.

2.      Who installs Tv antenna?

Installing a TV antenna can be done by various professionals or even by the homeowner, depending on the complexity of the installation. Here are the typical options for who can install a TV antenna:

1. Professional Antenna Installers:

• Specialized Antenna Installation Companies: These companies specialize in installing TV antennas and typically offer a range of services, including selecting the best antenna for your location, mounting the antenna, running cables, and tuning the system.
• Satellite and Cable Service Providers: Some satellite and cable TV providers also offer antenna installation services, either as part of their service packages or as an additional service.

2. Electricians:

• Licensed Electricians: Many electricians have the skills and tools necessary to install TV antennas, especially if the installation involves running cables through walls or making electrical connections.

3. Handyman Services:

• General Handyman Services: Some handyman service providers offer TV antenna installation as part of their range of services. They can handle the basic mounting and cabling required for the antenna.

4. Homeowners:

• DIY Installation: If you are comfortable with basic tools and following installation instructions, you can install a TV antenna yourself. This option is usually more feasible for simple installations, such as indoor antennas or outdoor antennas in accessible locations.

Steps a Professional Installer Typically Follows:

1. Site Survey:
• Assess the location to determine the best placement for the antenna, considering factors like signal strength, obstacles, and elevation.
2. Choosing the Antenna:
• Recommend the appropriate type of antenna based on the distance from broadcast towers and the specific needs of the customer (e.g., directional vs. omnidirectional antennas).
3. Mounting the Antenna:
• Secure the antenna on the roof, attic, or an exterior wall using appropriate mounting hardware.
• Ensure the antenna is positioned and oriented for optimal signal reception.
4. Running the Cable:
• Run coaxial cable from the antenna to the TV or signal booster, often through walls or attics to keep the installation neat.
• Install grounding equipment to protect the antenna system from lightning strikes.
5. Connecting and Testing:
• Connect the antenna to the TV or signal booster and perform a channel scan to ensure the system is receiving the expected channels.
• Adjust the antenna's position if necessary to improve signal quality.
6. Tuning and Configuration:
• Fine-tune the system, including any necessary adjustments to the TV's settings or the installation of amplifiers or splitters to distribute the signal to multiple TVs.

Finding a Professional Installer:

• Online Directories and Reviews: Websites like Angie's List, HomeAdvisor, or Yelp can help you find local professionals with good reviews.
• Referrals: Ask friends, family, or neighbors if they have recommendations for reliable installers.
• Manufacturer Recommendations: Some antenna manufacturers provide lists of recommended installers who are familiar with their products.

Choosing a professional to install your TV antenna can ensure a high-quality installation with optimal performance and minimal hassle.