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A TV on the wall looks great right up until you notice the four black cables hanging down to the outlet. Hiding them is what makes a mounted TV look finished, and it is one of the most popular add-ons to a TV install.
There are three ways to do it. Here is how to decide which one fits your wall.
How do you hide TV wires?
Run low-voltage cables like HDMI inside the wall through a recessed plate behind the TV and another near the outlet, and bring power up with a listed in-wall power kit or a new outlet behind the TV. Where the wall is solid, use a paintable cord cover instead.
| Method | Look | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Paintable cord cover | Slim channel painted to match the wall | Brick, concrete, renters, quick jobs |
| In-wall with power kit | Nothing visible below the TV | Hollow drywall between two studs |
| Outlet behind the TV | Nothing visible, power stays in the wall | New builds and remodels |
Getting power to the TV
Hiding HDMI is the easy part. The TV still needs power behind the screen, and that is what decides the method. An in-wall power kit brings power up inside the wall to a recessed outlet behind the TV, so the TV plugs in right where it hangs. On a remodel or new build, an outlet added behind the TV does the same job.
Why Chicago walls need a closer look
In older two-flats and greystones there is often plaster and lath, a fire block between studs, or brick behind the drywall. Any of those can turn a simple in-wall run into a cord cover job, and it is better to know that up front.
How an in-wall run works
1. Find a clear stud bay
Locate the studs and check for fire blocks, pipes and wiring in the bay behind the TV before cutting anything.
2. Cut two openings
One behind the TV and one near the floor, sized for the recessed plates so the cuts are fully covered.
3. Run low-voltage cables
HDMI, Ethernet and optical go through the wall. They must be CL2 or CL3 rated for in-wall use.
4. Bring power up properly
Never push the TV's own power cord through the wall: the electrical code (NEC 400.12) does not allow flexible cords inside walls. A listed power kit or an electrician-installed outlet powers the TV, and the TV cord plugs in behind the screen.
5. Mount and tidy
The TV goes up, the short cables behind it get bundled, and nothing shows below the screen.
Common questions
How does the TV get power when the wires are hidden?
Through an in-wall power kit with a recessed outlet behind the TV, or a new outlet added behind the screen. Either way nothing hangs below the TV.
Can HDMI cables go inside the wall?
Yes, as long as they are rated CL2 or CL3 for in-wall use. Look for the rating printed on the cable jacket.
Can you hide wires on a brick or concrete wall?
Not inside the wall, but a slim paintable cord cover or a route along the mantel or trim keeps it clean.
Can you hide wires if I rent?
A cord cover is the renter-friendly option since it removes without opening the wall. For in-wall work, check with your landlord first.
- #Hidden wires
- #In-wall kits
- #Cord covers
