how to fix a scratched tv lcd screen quotation

A word to the wise. You must use caution and common sense when attempting this procedure or you can easily make things worse.  At our affordable Pittsburgh cleaning services company, we don’t clean flat screen TVs but I still felt this writing might prove very useful to you.

This is a technique that you can use to remove light scratches from flat screen and LCD TVs safely.  Scratches can result from some of the most innocuous, everyday items such as a piece of newspaper, a magazine, or tiny claw nails from pet cats and dogs and even fingernails from children. Any of these items and many more can unintentionally brush against your flat screen TV, leaving a scratch that’s usually visible whether the television in turned on or off.

The secret to removing light scratches from your flat screen TV is to use the proper tools along with a careful tried and true technique. To begin with, you’ll need a bottle of Isopropyl alcohol which is normally found in grocery stores, drug stores, and, hardware stores. Don’t use any other type of alcohol as it will damage your screen beyond repair.

Next and just as important is a soft clean microfiber cleaning cloth that most professional cleaning services use when cleaning client’s homes. They’re usually found at WalMart and Target stores. Again don’t substitute any other cleaning cloth or damage is likely to occur.

Lastly, distilled water is needed, which is also available at grocery stores, Walmarts, and most drug stores. Regular tap water has harmful chemicals which will exasperate the problem.

A quick word of caution –  never use Windex, glass cleaner, or other window cleaning solutions on your flat screen TV.  Never use paper towels on your Flat Screen TV, as this is one of the quickest routes to permanently damaging your flat screen or LCD with thousands of little scratches.

I once didn’t follow this advice and used a paper towel on reading glasses.  I didn’t use excessive force, but it didn’t matter!  I quickly discovered I damaged my expensive eyeglasses beyond repair.

This one little mistake is how most folks ruin their TV screen.  The same applies to cell phone screens, Ipads, laptops, and desktops.  All of these surfaces should only be cleaned lightly with a soft microfiber cloth.

Before starting, first mix a 50/50 solution (half Isopropyl alcohol and half distilled water) in a liquid safe container.  Be sure the container is clean, not only of small dirt particles but also of any lingering chemicals from prior use. Use Isopropyl alcohol that is rated at 90% pure so that when mixing a 50/50 solution the final result is perfect for the task at hand.

Dip your microfiber cloth into the solution and wring it out so it’s slightly damp. Begin by gently rubbing the scratch on the TV in a circular motion.  Use care as it’s important not to rub too hard or friction from the microfiber cloth can make the scratch worse.

After a bit, the scratch should begin to disappear as the Isopropyl alcohol in your cleaning solution evaporates.  If the scratch does not begin to disappear or becomes worse stop immediately.  You may have a scratch that needs a professional’s attention.

Remember, the easiest way to remove scratches from your flat screen and LCD TV is to prevent them in the first place. Hope this article helps you to restore your screen like new.

This article was written by Linh Le and by wikiHow staff writer, Jack Lloyd. Linh Le is a Certified Mobile Repair Specialist and the Owner of SC Mobile Repairs in San Clemente, California. With more than 12 years of experience, he specializes in smartphone, tablet, and smartwatch hardware repair. Linh has an iTech Mobile Device Repair Certification and an iOS Certification. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from The Franciscan University of Steubenville.

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I do take extreme care when replacing screens but the screen shattered on this one & the tool i was using to get the shattered bits of glass off slipped

Scratches or cracks on flat-screen TV screens, whether they’re LED, LCD, or Plasma, can often mean an expensive professional repair, replacement parts, or even a replacement TV, especially if they are a top-rated TV. But depending on the extent of the damage, there are a few DIY tricks that can salvage the situation. Knowing how to fix a broken TV screen can save you time and a lot of money, so it’s often worth a try to apply a little elbow grease to the problem.

These DIY flat-screen tv repair tricks generally won’t cost you much- or anything at all, and anyone can do them, regardless of how handy they may or may not be–they can even save you from high flat-screen tv repair costs. Or even better, they’ll save you from replacing a high-quality TV, like if you’ve invested in one of the best TVs for bright rooms.

Before you attempt any home repairs, there are some guidelines as far as what kind of screen damage can actually be fixed without a professional (or at all.) However, before you do any repairs, you should see if your warranty covers the repairs. This is especially true if you bought an extended warranty as you don’t want to waste your money.

Spiderweb cracks are small, shallow hairline cracks that don’t go all the way through the screen and are often fixable, especially since it usually means that damage hasn’t been done to the components underneath. Scratches- especially minor ones- are more often than not capable of being “erased” or faded so that they don’t affect your viewing experience.

In the case of how to fix a TV with no picture but sound, you should check the settings to ensure that they’re set correctly. If needed, reset them and see if it resolves the issue. If not, then you may need to check for loose or damaged cables. Additionally, you may want to check out how to fix a black screen on a TV. However, if you have a picture that isn’t clear and looks blocky, check out our page on troubleshooting TV pixelation problems. We can also help you troubleshoot your problem if you have been asking, why does my TV keep turning off?

As with any kind of screen damage on a flat-screen tv, not every spiderweb crack or will be fixable at home, and major cracks or vertical lines and horizontal lines will always mean a professional repair at an authorized repair center, replacement screen purchase, entire board replacement, backlight repair, and not infrequently, the need to replace the entire TV unit if the cost of the flat-screen tv repair would be more than the original cost of the TV. One thing that you ought to keep in mind, however, is that you should consider screen size and tv weight. Additionally, if you are energy conscious, you should learn about the different screen technologies and how much power those TVs use.

A frequent but often minor issue with TV screens and computer monitors alike are “dead” pixels or pixels that seem to be stuck on one color or overly bright pixels. While this is sometimes an indication of irreversible physical damage, fairly often, it’s something that can be fixed quickly and easily and save you from flat-screen tv repair costs. First, you will want to make sure the issue is a dead pixel, you can do this by following our guide on how to fix a black spot on a tv screen.Wrap a pencil or other dull and narrow object in a damp, soft (non-abrasive) cloth

If you don’t see results with this method, you could also try using software designed to “cycle” through colors rapidly to “wake up” pixels, some of which are available for free.

Fine cracks or spiderweb cracks on flat-panel screens can often be repaired or “erased” using a few different DIY methods. First, you’ll need to determine if a repair is possible. Run a soft, clean, non-abrasive cloth over the screen gently- if you feel any broken glass or jagged or rough edges, the repair will probably not be possible, and you’ll likely have to replace the screen entirely. If not, try the following:Using a clean, dry pencil eraser, gently rub the scratches or spiderweb crack, making sure to wipe away any residue from the eraser as it collects.

If the above fix doesn’t work or isn’t as effective as desired, you can purchase an LCD scratch repair kit as a backup method- these can be found at many vendors at an average cost of $20 to start. If the kit doesn’t work either, you still may be looking at a screen replacement and a call to a repair center. It is also important as sometimes your TV may not need fixing, but you just need to know how can I get internet on my tv. This is especially true if you are just facing issues with the internet connectivity of your smart TV. If none of these fixes work and you are in need of a new TV, you can check out our Samsung Q90R review to get started on your search. Alternatively, you can check out our guide on the best 55-inch TV to read about one of the most popular sized TVs currently available.

If it’s a hairline or spiderweb crack-one that doesn’t go all the way through the screen- you may be able to repair it yourself using a couple of DIY methods or by purchasing a kit online. If the damage is significant, it’s likely you’ll have to replace the screen entirely.

Hourly labor rates at TV repair shops can range from $60 to $125, including diagnostic fees, but further charges depend on the repair services needed, as well as the model and brand of the TV- many repairs can have an average cost of up to $350, not including labor costs. Work like port repair, replacement panels, power board, and power supply replacement, any major display issue, new lamp units, and other common issues can vary a great deal in cost depending on TV models- replacing an entire display panel on a small 1080p screen will be much cheaper than replacing one from a large 4K TV. An included limited warranty can sometimes help with these costs, however, though they don’t always cover labor costs.

Sometimes, yes- it depends on the extent of the damage. If the screen damage is minor, such as hairline cracks or scratches, DIY methods may work, but major cracks can often damage the plasma components underneath, making the repair cost higher than the original cost of the TV itself sometimes. Consulting a repair shop that does Plasma TV repair is a good idea if the damage seems major. Repair technicians can often diagnose panel replacement, motherboard replacement, power supply repair, inverter repair, and more over the phone.

Common issues that generally can’t be solved at home include inverter repair, power cord replacement, many LED TV repairs, replacement panels, a blank screen, replacing the power supply board, control board swapping, and lamp burnout. Diagnostics testing can often reveal other issues with your set that are related to the main issue.

STAT: An extended warranty as opposed to a limited warranty can cost between 10 and 20 percent of the price of your TV but can save you from replacement and repair costs in case of major damage. An extended warranty can usually be purchased with the TV. (source)

STAT: Software updates to your Smart TV can be done at home by the user at no cost, while a repair shop will charge as much as $100 for performing such updates. (source)

Use our “Get an Estimate” tool to review potential costs if you get service directly from Apple. The prices shown here are only for screen repair. If your iPhone needs other service, you’ll pay additional costs.

If you go to another service provider, they can set their own fees, so ask them for an estimate. For service covered by AppleCare+, your fee per incident will be the same regardless of which service provider you choose.

Your country or region offers AppleCare+ for this product. Screen repair (front) is eligible for coverage with a fee by using an incident of accidental damage from handling that comes with your AppleCare+ plan.

The Apple Limited Warranty covers your iPhone and the Apple-branded accessories that come in the box with your product against manufacturing issues for one year from the date you bought them. Apple-branded accessories purchased separately are covered by the Apple Limited Warranty for Accessories. This includes adapters, spare cables, wireless chargers, or cases.

Depending on the issue, you might also have coverage with AppleCare+. Terms and Conditions apply, including fees. Feature availability and options may vary by country or region.

We guarantee our service, including replacement parts, for 90 days or the remaining term of your Apple warranty or AppleCare plan, whichever is longer. This is in addition to your rights provided by consumer law.

Replacement equipment that Apple provides as part of the repair or replacement service may contain new or previously used genuine Apple parts that have been tested and pass Apple functional requirements.

Finally, when nothing else seems to have a positive effect, using a simple eraser may be worth a try. What Home Theater claims that a simple pencil eraser, or any type of soft rubber material, can slowly erase a scratch on a flat-screen television. This technique, however, is not recommended to be used alone.

What Home Theater recommends always starting with one of the other techniques before jumping in with an eraser. For example, you can start off by rubbing the scratch gently with the mixture of isopropyl alcohol and water before using an eraser to finish off the task. When picking out an eraser, choose one that is rather soft or you may risk further damage to the television. While rubbing with the eraser, be gentle with your strokes and move in a circular motion. Like all the other techniques, if you start to notice the scratch getting worse, stop the process immediately and seek the help of a professional for further guidance.

the bezel is held in place by a very strong self-adhesive coating on its back. i managed to dissolve the coating by repeated careful application of lighter fluid along the edges of the bezel (that took me a couple of hours, though). you need apply some gentle force to convince the bezel to come off, and in due course you will ruin the perfect flatness of the bezel. in hindsight, it was not worth trying because of all the consequent hassle to get it back into shape.

also, don"t try to use heat to soften the adhesive coating, or acteone to dissolve it. both methods will ruin the plastic of the calculator"s top shelf.

Most TVs sold today are known as “flat screen TVs,” which is just a way of describing their appearance as a thin rectangle less than 10 inches thick. Modern flat screen TVs differ from older models, called CRTs or cathode ray tube TVs. Those televisions had curved screens and were often quite thick.

Today, flat screen TVs range from LED and LCD televisions that have been around for a few decades to upgraded models known as OLED and 4K TVs, which boast better picture quality. Plasma screen TVs were once a popular type of flat screen TV. However, they have fallen out of popularity. Most TVs sold today are also smart TVs, which means they can connect to the internet. Older flat screen models that need repair are sometimes not smart. The table below describes these common television types and how much each usually costs to repair.

Repairs for LCD TVs cost between $60 and $475. LCD televisions are one of the most popular options on the market, available in a wide range of sizes and styles. They use an LCD (liquid crystal display) with backlights to produce images. The backlights, screen, and other components may get damaged over time and need repairing. The most common problems for LCD TVs are bad power supplies and dead capacitors that may need repair or replacement.

LED TV repairs range from $60 to $475, depending on the scale of the problem. LED televisions are a specific type of LCD TV that use LED backlights to illuminate the liquid crystal display. These TVs usually produce more colorful and vibrant images and are more energy-efficient, but the LED backlights may need to be repaired or replaced over time. Another common problem is a broken inverter that requires repair or replacement.

4K TV repairs range from $100 to $350. A 4K television provides some of the clearest and most detailed images because of the very high resolution of its screen, providing more engaging viewing experiences. There are different types of 4K TVs, including some that use LED and others that use OLED. Basically, a television is considered 4K if it has ultra high definition. These models can be expensive to purchase and repair, but in many cases, repairs may not be possible on these units. So, their overall repair costs may be lower simply because some repairs may not be offered. Issues that are repairable include inverter, backlight, and power supply problems.

Smart TV repairs cost between $100 and $475. These TVs have Smart technology and connect with your home’s Wi-Fi network to download updates and access apps and the internet. They are more advanced than other TVs but still have various components that can break and require repairs. Many Smart TVs can have basic components. So even though they may be more expensive to purchase, they are not necessarily the most expensive to repair. That comes down to how the television is made and what makes it Smart. Common repairs include power supply replacement, bulb replacement, and backlight repair.

Plasma TV repairs average $100 to $485. These televisions are made up of pixels filled with gas that light up when an electrical current is applied. They are less popular today, and most companies have stopped making them. But they can still be found in many homes and are subject to problems like screen burn and distorted colors. While some repairs on these TVs are possible, such as when the power supply fails, many issues cannot be repaired due to the rarity of replacement parts. Screen burns and problems that require screen replacement render the television not-fixable.

OLED TV repairs cost between $100 and $1,000 on average. They are the next step up from a standard LED TV, with OLED standing for organic light-emitting diodes. OLED televisions can achieve deeper blacks and higher contrast compared to standard LED screens. However, they can be very expensive to purchase and repair. Unfortunately, some OLED TVs are quite susceptible to “burn-in,” which is officially known as permanent image retention. When this occurs, an image remains on the TV even though it is shut off. The problem may require screen replacement.

You might not know exactly which part of your TV is broken or damaged at first. The symptoms of a broken television vary from vertical colored lines across the screen to audio issues, power problems, and even situations where the television starts normally but then turns itself off. For this reason, most repairs start with a diagnostic so that the problem can be found and a plan made for repair. For some repairs to be made, the part will need to be replaced, while in other cases, repair or replacement of that part may not be possible. The table below shows common problems and average repair costs for each.

Repairing a TV that will not turn on costs between $60 and $475 because there are many potential causes. It might be something as simple as a failed capacitor, which can be replaced quite cheaply. Or, it could be a motherboard or power supply issue, which is more costly to fix. The problem may be intermittent initially and become more frequent or permanent after a part fails.

Damaged cables on your TV can be repaired for between $75 and $200 in most cases. Over time, cables can get frayed, twisted, or broken, but professionals can cut away the damaged parts, add in new connectors and repair the damage, or simply replace the bad cables with new ones.

Expect to pay between $75 and $475 to repair a television with no sound. There are various reasons why your TV’s sound stopped working. When the problem is not an issue with the media you are trying to play on your television or an issue with a video file format, it is most likely a fault with a speaker, which can be repaired or replaced. Or, it could be a deeper issue associated with the motherboard, which may also need fixing or replacing.

Repairs for this problem cost between $100 and $475. If your TV’s picture appears for a moment and then vanishes, it may be an issue with the inverter. The problem might also be a faulty circuit board. Inverters and circuit boards can be repaired, but the extent of the damage might require a full replacement of one of those parts. A repairman will open it up, diagnose the issue, and decide on the most efficient solution.

The cost to repair this problem is between $100 and $475. Sometimes, a television may shut off randomly after a short time because the sleep timer is accidentally engaged. However, the problem may also exist inside the television and require professional repair. One common reason the TV turns off is that it is overheating. The TV shuts off after a few minutes to prevent serious damage to the system. Fixing it may require an easy cleaning or may require the replacement of an overheated circuit board or power supply.

Repairing vertical lines on the screen averages $150 to $400. This is usually an issue associated with your TV’s control board or motherboard, which may be damaged and need to be either repaired or replaced. Resetting the television to its factory defaults may fix the issue. Or, a loose cable may be causing the problem. If resetting the television and reseating the cables does not work, a repair person will need to open the TV to diagnose and repair the issue.

Repairing horizontal lines on your TV costs between $150 and $475. It might be an issue with the motherboard, or it could be a problem with loose cables between the panel and the control board. Sometimes, the fix is as easy as resetting the television to factory defaults or updating the firmware. However, the problem may exist inside the TV, and to fix this issue, the repair person needs to open the television to diagnose the problem.

Water damage repairs on a TV range from $150 to $500. In some cases, if too much water has gotten into the TV, it may be beyond repair. In less severe situations, a repairman will take the television apart, dry it out, and put it back together successfully, repairing any damaged components. The repair person needs to clean the inside of the TV and get it dry because impurities in water can cause corrosion of various components.

Repairing a cracked TV screen costs from $400 to $1,000 or even more. Cracked screens cannot be repaired, they can only be replaced, and they are very expensive, sometimes exceeding the cost of a new TV. For this reason, if you have a cracked screen, it will probably have to be replaced entirely, or the manufacturer will need to handle the repair at one of their facilities or via a mobile repair service.

TVs are made up of various parts and components, all working together to produce lights, colors, pictures, and sounds for your entertainment. Over time, accidents may happen that damage these parts, or they might just wear down over the years through repeated use. For example, an HDMI port may become bent after a plug is reinserted several times. Alternatively, one of the lights inside the TV responsible for illumination may fail, causing the entire screen to go dark. The circuit boards that act as the brain and power source for the TV may also fail or short-circuit because of repetitive use, energy spikes, or other power problems. Many parts of the TV are fully repairable. Paying to repair the TV may be more cost-effective than buying a new one. The table below shows common TV repairs and the costs for each.

HDMI port repairs for a TV cost between $60 and $260. Sometimes, HDMI ports fall out of position and may simply need to be repositioned. Heavily used HDMI ports may also wear out over time or become bent after cables are inserted and removed often, and the TV is turned on and off frequently. In other cases, one might stop working due to a more serious fault and require full replacement of the port.

TV speaker repairs range from $75 to $260, depending on the type and damage done to the speaker. When a speaker starts to fail, the sound coming from the TV may sound muffled, or it might be impossible to increase the volume to an audible level. Faulty speakers may simply need rewiring or minor adjustments, or they could need to be cleaned or replaced, so the exact costs and amount of work vary.

Backlight repairs average $100 to $200. The backlight is what illuminates the display of your television, providing the brightness and color. It may be in the form of LED light strips or fluorescent lights, depending on which television type you have. When the lights are in a series, one bad light may cause the entire screen to fail. If these lights develop a problem, a repairman must open it up and make adjustments to get them functioning again.

TV inverter repairs cost between $100 and $210 each. The inverter powers up the backlights for your television, and they can stop working if their capacitors break down. Symptoms of a failing or failed inverter include no picture, a faint picture, or a flashing screen. The power button may still illuminate, and the sound may work fine even though the inverter is broken. Repairs are made by fitting new capacitors in place.

Power board repairs cost between $200 and $475. The power supply board allows it to turn on and function, and if it breaks down in any way, it may simply stop turning on. Often, a repairman can replace some of the capacitors and make other adjustments to repair a faulty board, rather than having to replace it entirely. Replacing a power board requires a soldering iron and some expertise in soldering.

TV panel repairs average $200 to $2,000 because different types of televisions have materials that vary significantly in cost. An older LED TV might cost between $200 and $400 to fix, but a 4K TV may cost several thousand to repair. Additionally, some panels cannot be repaired. For this reason, many companies do not offer panel repair. So if your television gets a crack in the panel, you may be better off buying a new unit instead.

TV screen repairs cost between $300 and $1,000, but in many cases, repairing the screen is not possible. Since the screen is usually the most expensive part of the television and one of the most sensitive to impacts and other damage, an expert may advise you to simply buy a new television instead of having it repaired. It is worth getting a diagnosis if the screen issue is not too severe because issues like flashing pixels or distorted colors may be fixable. While cracks might not be repairable, sometimes scratches and smudges are fixable.

In some cases, your TV components may not be able to be repaired, or it might be more cost-effective to replace them with new ones. The repair price includes the cost of new parts, plus the labor required to fit them into place and remove the broken components. While some components can be replaced, they may be extremely expensive or cost-prohibitive to do so. This is mainly in the case of panels and screens because they often contain too many parts to replace on their own. The table below shows average costs for a variety of common replacements:

Fuse replacement in a TV costs between $60 and $150 and is one of the easier replacement jobs for a repairman. Glass and ceramic fuses on your TV’s power supply board may blow in certain situations and need replacing. To replace a fuse, the repairman opens the TV to access the power panel and swaps out the fuse. Bear in mind that the TV may have a more serious electrical problem if the fuse blows more than once.

Replacing a TV capacitor is inexpensive, starting at $60 to $300. If more than one capacitor needs replacing, it is usually less expensive to replace the entire board. Capacitors cannot be repaired, so replacement is the only option. Replacing the capacitor may fix problems with slow start-up times, screen flickering, disappearing pictures, and sound problems.

TV bulb replacement costs average $100 to $200. Bulbs are usually found only in older models of LCD TVs or projection TVs. They are used to illuminate the display so that the picture can be seen. Bulbs are relatively easy to replace, but the material costs are a little higher with bulbs when compared to other components, leading to varied replacement prices from model to model. Replacing a bulb can fix a flickering television or a dark screen problem.

TV backlight replacements cost between $100 and $200 on average, depending on the television size and scale and the type and number of lights required. If you have LED lights, parts may be more expensive, leading to higher total costs. Usually when backlight problems occur, the bulbs or diodes are dead and need to be replaced. Replacing the TV backlight helps fix the problem where the TV is half or fully dark when turned on, and the image is only partially visible.

HDMI port replacement on a TV costs between $200 and $350. Damaged or broken ports may simply stop working or be incompatible with certain HDMI cables. In this case, a new port must be fitted and connected to the circuit board, requiring a couple of hours of labor. Replacing an HDMI port helps you regain the use of the port, which may have failed due to a bent piece or a problem with its connection to the circuit board.

TV motherboard replacements average $200 to $450. Often when a problem occurs with a motherboard, it needs to be completely replaced rather than repaired. The motherboard controls the TV’s functions and features, and a broken motherboard makes your television completely unusable. Replacing a motherboard may fix all sorts of problems, including missing sound, random shut-downs, failure to connect to the internet, and HDMI ports that are not recognized by the TV.

TV screen replacement costs at least $400 to $4,200 and may even cost more. The screen is the most expensive part of a TV. So usually, the cost of replacing it is higher than just buying a new unit because of the labor involved. In some cases, this is because the screen cannot be replaced without also replacing most of the other components, particularly for TVs like LED, LCD, or plasma. Most professional repair companies do not offer screen or panel replacement as a service. The only way to get a new screen is to have it fixed under warranty by the manufacturer.

TV panel replacement costs a minimum of $400 to $5,000 and often a lot more on some of the high-end 4K and Smart screen displays. Because the cost of a replacement panel is so high, it is usually more cost-effective to simply purchase a new television. Like the screen, this is due to the number of components involved. Therefore, most repair places will not offer panel replacement as a service.

There are many different brands and companies that make TVs. Some brands specialize in certain types, while others make a wider range of products. It is common for the brand to impact the cost of repair because there may be specific issues or costs related to that brand. While you may choose a specific brand based on the technology, cost, or resolution, keep in mind that brands may also have varying costs for repairs and the repairs types that may be available. Regardless of brand, most TV repairs fall between $60 and $400, although some repairs may be higher.

The cost to fix a Philips TV is $60 to $100. The typical issue with Philips televisions seems to be that they have a mind of their own. They turn on and off and sign in and out of apps randomly. While a solution doesn’t seem to be forthcoming, Philips is steadily losing customers due to a firmware problem. However, if they have a problem that is not related to a software bug, it is usually a problem with the power source.

Fixing a Sony TV will cost you about $60 to $400. This popular brand has a reputation for simply becoming disabled with no power or sound. Unfortunately, the customer service at Sony isn’t always the best. Customers are often frustrated when it comes to warranty work. Sony TV problems that may require repair from a professional include motherboard issues that cause image flickering and HDMI port issues.

To fix your TCL TV blank screen, you should expect to pay about $60 to $400. One characteristic repair of the TCL brand is a black screen with no picture. This can be a fuse that has blown, or it may require a major change, such as a new main board. Some TCL owners also report having problems with the sound, which may require repairing the speakers. Sound problems may also indicate an issue with a cable.

Damaged cables can cause a TV to flicker or grow dim. Repair prices for damaged cables are $75 to $200. Samsung TV owners cite this flickering or dimming of the screen as a common issue with this brand. Sometimes the settings for the eco sensor or the energy-saving feature create this problem. Turning either of those off may fix the issue. In some cases, Samsung TVs may experience overheating and a resulting hardware failure or motherboard problem that requires repair or replacement of the motherboard.

Some of the most common issues with this brand are banding at a repair cost of $100 to $200 or sound with a cost of $150 to $400. Color problems may be related to adjustment and can be fixed for a low cost of $75 to $100, HDMI connections are often fixed at the cost of $200 to $300, and streaming problems may be corrected with a software update. Software updates can be done by the owner, but a repairman will most likely charge a minimum fee of $75 to $100. Banding presents as sections of bands where it should be smooth. Sound and color can go out over time in the LG brand. HDMI and streaming can become difficult as technology emerges and changes.

Hisense TVs have a history of display difficulties and could cost you about $100 to $200. Typically, it means you need a new inverter, or it could signal the beginning of the end for your Hisense television. A black screen may also indicate a problem with the motherboard, which usually requires complete replacement. A technician can test the TV to determine whether the motherboard is bad.

Panasonic TV owners often experience the power clicking on and off and may need a new main board at the cost of $200 to $400. The reset button may help. The repairman will need to replace the motherboard of the TV if that fails. Before calling a repairperson, Panasonic TV owners may want to try a factory reset or a firmware update. Occasionally, Panasonic TV problems are a simple programming issue.

The Vizio TV is known for its screen of death (a blank or black screen) and usually costs about $200 to $400. The problem is most often a blown motherboard, and replacement is the only option. A factory reset may be a solution. If that doesn"t work, the motherboard is the best possible answer. Vizio TVs also commonly have problems with lines on the screen. This issue is occasionally fixable with a hard reset or factory reset. However, it often requires a motherboard replacement, too.

Labor costs for TV repair vary depending on whether you have the television repaired in your home or drop it off at a repair center. Having someone come to your home will have higher costs than taking it to a technician.

A television repair technician has earned a career certificate or Associate’s degree in electronics technology or a related field. Expect to pay between $60 and $125 per hour in labor for someone to fix your television. Some technicians have minimum costs for some repairs, particularly if they travel to you. In this case, you may find that even if the repair only takes an hour, you may need to pay a minimum of two hours of work.

The amount of time to repair your TV depends on what the problem is and the availability of parts. Most jobs can be completed in 1 to 3 hours when the parts are on hand.

Most technicians charge you a diagnostic fee upfront. This fee is for determining what the problem is and can run between $75 and $150. The cost is often waived if you allow the shop’s technicians to make the repairs for you.

In-shop TV repair services may involve a pick-up and delivery charge if you do not take it in yourself. While some may do this for free, others charge between $40 and $75 to pick-up and deliver the TV back to you. Additionally, customers that live in rural areas may have to ship the television. If you do this, make sure you obtain a tracking number and proof of delivery. The repair service will contact you with the list of recommended repairs and the cost and request a debit or credit card to pay for the repairs before completing them.

Often, you must decide whether it is worth repairing your TV. In some situations, the cost of repairs is higher than the price of a new TV. For example, when screens are cracked or damaged, the cost of replacing a panel is usually much higher than simply buying a new TV. For major repairs, it is often cheaper to buy a new TV. However, for minor repairs, it is less expensive to call a repair person and get the TV fixed.

It is recommended to replace electronics whenever the cost of repairs equals or exceeds half the cost of a new purchase. It is also recommended that you replace your television if the new version is less than $200, or if your screen is smaller than 32”. For example, it costs around $150 for a new motherboard in an LG Model 24LF452B 24” TV, which takes around one hour to repair. As a result, you would pay between $190 and $210 to repair your old set, while it is possible to purchase a new one for less.

If you invested a lot of money in your television, the costs of repairing an inverter or getting new backlights may be far cheaper than replacing it. This is why it is often best to ask a professional to diagnose the problem and give you a quote for the repair work. Then, you can compare the price of repairs against the cost of a new TV and decide what makes sense. If your TV breaks down repeatedly, you have multiple repair bills over the course of a year. It might be time for a new television even if a single repair does not seem too expensive.

To minimize repairs and help your TV stay in working order for as long as possible, take care of it as well as you can. Here are some useful TV maintenance tips:Do not leave the TV on if you are not actually watching it. They can run for tens of thousands of hours, but there is no need to waste those hours. So, avoid leaving it on in the background, and make sure to turn it off when you leave the room.

Try not to leave your TV on for too long at a time. Like other appliances, televisions can start to get very hot the longer they are left on. They need to be turned off now and then to get a chance to cool down and rest before being switched back on.

Keep your TV clean. Over time, dust, pet hair, and bits of dirt can build up on the screen and get inside the television via vents and ports. This dust accumulation can affect a TV’s operation and make it more likely to break down.

Consider using a surge protector to keep your TV and associated devices and appliances safe. This can be especially important in areas that experience a lot of storms or frequent power cuts because sudden cuts and surges easily damage your TV’s components.

When positioning your television, leave space around it to provide airflow. This helps prevent the TV from overheating and cools it down more quickly when you turn it off.

Mounting a television usually costs between $100 and $300. Mounting1 a TV is something to think about when you have a TV that sits on a TV stand and want to prevent the TV from getting knocked down and damaged. Many TV specialists also mount TVs as part of their services. You might find it convenient to have this service performed at the same time as your repair.

Additional Considerations and CostsDIY. In some cases, it is possible to repair a TV with a simple reset or update to the firmware. Replacing a cord or buying a new remote is another easy fix. However, most repairs that require that the TV is taken apart are a job for a professional. Improper installation of a T-con board or an issue soldering a piece into the television could result in permanent failure or electrical danger to the owner or the home.

Obvious solutions. Before seeking repairs, first look for the obvious. If your set will not power on, it could be a problem with your outlet and not your TV. Try plugging your television into a different outlet to see if that resolves the problem. If that does not fix it, ensure you have not tripped a breaker, and check that the power cord is fully seated.

Remote control. A set that powers on and off at random is sometimes caused by issues with the remote. Try removing and replacing the batteries or using a different remote if possible.

Warranty. When purchasing a new television, buying an extended warranty can spare you the unwanted expense of repair bills in some cases. An extended warranty is largely based on the price of your television. Expect to spend between 10 and 20 percent of your set’s cost on an extended warranty to help cover damage. Ordinary warranties only cover manufacturer’s defects and, therefore, cannot be used to pay for damage due to neglect or accidents.

Warranty repairs. When having warranty repairs made, drop the set off at a local shop whenever possible or have them come to you. If you need to ship the television off, get a tracking number so that you can locate your set if it gets lost.

Scams. Television repair scams are quite common. Before hiring someone to fix your set, find out what experience and training that person has. Check references and online reviews as well.

Yes, flat-screen TVs can frequently be fixed, including issues with the screen, sound, lighting, cables, and interior components. However, there are some situations where flat-screen TVs cannot be fixed, such as when the screen is severely cracked.How do you fix a broken TV screen?

Not all TV screens can be fixed or replaced. Certain types have components behind the screen that can be damaged by its removal. However, if you choose to proceed, remove all external cables, unplug your set, and lay it face down on a flat, soft surface. Remove any screws holding the frame in place and then gently remove the frame and set it aside. Put your new screen in place and reconnect the internal cables in the same manner you disconnected them. It is usually best to get a professional to handle TV repairs, and the cost of replacement screens is often very high. So, it may be more cost-effective to get a new TV.How many years will a flat-screen TV last?

This depends on the make and model of your TV and your viewing habits. Many modern TVs last 60,000 viewing hours or more, equating to 30+ years for a typical person. However, its lifespan can be reduced if it is not properly maintained and cared for.Does turning the TV off shorten its life?

No, turning a TV off will not usually shorten its life in any way. It is actually recommended to turn TVs off when you are not using them, allowing them to cool down and extend their lifespan.Is it okay to leave a TV on all night?

This is not recommended. If you leave a TV on for too long, it may overheat, which could damage interior components like the motherboard. It may also do damage to the screen and risk ‘burning’ an image into the display, as well as damaging the backlights.Do Smart TVs use more electricity?

Generally, no. Most modern Smart TVs are designed to be as energy-efficient as possible, with some models even using less energy than conventional TVs. It all depends on the TV make and model.

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Luckily, the advice from most manufacturers is simple: turn off the TV to identify the marks or dusty areas then wipe gently using a clean, soft and dry cloth.

While we will go into more detail about how to clean the screen without causing any damage – and recommend some solid products to help you – that’s the broad advice from a range of top companies, including Samsung, Sony, LG and Panasonic.

It applies to all types of modern display – including every model on our best smart TV guide – and regardless of whether you have an LCD/LED, OLED or QLED. But it’s not only the TV itself, don’t forget the remote gets much more hands-on time every day.

You don’t want to have bought an expensive new smart TV just to have it covered in scratches, so here’s how to clean the display in five easy-to-follow steps:Unplug or switch off the device. This will help you quickly identify any areas that need to be cleaned or are particularly covered in dust or smudges.

Gently wipe the screen using a clean, dry, soft cloth. If possible, use a lint-free cloth – and our personal recommendation is to stick with microfibre. These are available at every supermarket. Best to wipe in a circular motion.

Make sure the display is fully dry and clean. If the marks were removed using a soft, dry cloth you can turn the TV on. If you had to use a specialist spray, make sure that the TV is completely dry before switching it back on.

The advice may be straightforward, but there are some key cleaning approaches you should always avoid when it comes to touching and cleaning a TV screen.Avoid all home cleaning products. Surface, window or glass cleaners should stay as far away from your TV as possible. These will often contain chemicals such as alcohol, benzene or ammonia that can damage your screen.

Avoid paper towels, rolls and your sleeves: A fast-track to scratch town, these will leave deep marks on your display that will be so much worse than dust. Using these harsh materials could also strip the TVs anti-glare coating.

Avoid all moisture on the screen if possible. Some manufacturers say a very small amount of water can be used for tough marks but others say to never apply moisture. If you have to, always apply to the cloth, not the screen. Using a solution is a last resort, and only after a careful gentle wipe has failed.

Don’t use too much pressure: TV screens are fragile to the touch, so never push down hard with your cloth while cleaning. Doing so may damage the pixels under the display. Your TV is not a touchscreen smartphone.

Don"t forget the remote control: While your TV screen won’t be touched often, the same can’t be said for the remotes. These will likely be passed between your family members or friends so it"s best to also give them a wipe down.

You don’t always need to buy a cleaning kit: While these are marketed as an all-in-one solution, a microfibre cloth is often enough for dust/smudges and purchasing a pack of 12-24 cloths may actually be better value.

Lastly, don’t forget about the ports: If the screen is covered in dust, it’s likely the same goes for the back of the TV. Give those ports a dust down, too.

While there’s a lot of overlap between each brand’s cleaning tips, here’s the advice from each major TV manufacturer – and a direct link to their own tips page.

LG: “Cleaning your 4K, LED or LED TV screen with a soft, dry cloth is recommended. If you have already used liquid on the screen, dry it as quickly as possible (it may not be too late). Chemicals… should be avoided. Moisture on or near the TV should be avoided as it could cause short circuits in the electronic components.”

Samsung: “For general cleaning of the frame and screen of your TV, you should use a soft, clean, lint-free, dry cloth. We recommend using a microfibre cloth.

“You should never use any type of window cleaner, soap, scouring powder, or any cleanser with solvents such as alcohol, benzene, ammonia, or paint thinner. Never use abrasive pads or paper towels. If you do, you can scratch the screen or strip the anti-glare coating off the screen and cause permanent damage.”

Sony: “Gently wipe the screen or exterior with a dry, soft cloth, such as an eyeglass cleaner. For inks from oil markers on the screen, soak a cloth in a non-soap cleanser diluted (by less than 1%) with water. Squeeze it tightly, then wipe the ink off. Don"t use detergent with abrasives such as a cleanser.” Avoid touching the screen.

Panasonic: “A clean, dry, soft cloth should be used. For stubborn dirt, dampen a soft cloth with clean water or diluted neutral detergent (1 part detergent to 100 parts water). Ring the cloth and wipe the screen. Ensure that the cloth does not drip water; the television is not watertight and any damage to the television due to water getting into it is not covered under warranty. Finally, wipe away all of the moisture.”

The AmazonBasics range of 30 cm x 41 cm microfibre cloths is an affordable option – with a variety of pack sizes available to buy. We chose the 24 pack as that should last months – if not longer – if you are cleaning general dust or smudges from your TV. They are lint-free and won’t result in streaks across your screen. For just under £12, you will get a variety of towel colours, including blue, orange and white.

These microfibre cloths stand out due to their 40cm x 22cm sizing and will be great if you are someone with a larger TV. Made by cleaning company Sorbo, they attract dust from the screen and won’t leave any streaks behind. The cloths are machine washable at a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius and come in a variety of colours including blue, pink and yellow. The pack of six microfibre cloths costs £5.93.

These microfibre cleaning cloths by the brand Mr. Siga are exactly what TV makers were referencing in their cleaning guides: ultra-soft, highly absorbent, non-abrasive and will clean without any lint or streaks left behind. These ‎32 x 32cm cloths cost £11.99 for a pack of 12, although they are available in packs of 50 (£20.99).

A slightly different design to the microfibre cloths that you will typically see in your kitchen, this polyester-made set more closely resembles a glasses cleaner but will be effective at wiping down electronics including phones, TVs and monitors. Made by Charles Parker London, you get five 30cm x 30cm black cloths for £9, these will be great for wiping off the dust – but especially fingerprints – from your screen.

Another popular option is these lint-free microfibre cloths from UK-based brand Exel. At 40 x 40 cm, they are large in size so perfect for wiping down larger TVs from dust and smudges. For the pack of 10, which should last you months if you are only using them for your TV, it costs £8.30, so they are good value. If you need a well-sized set of microfibre cloths but don’t want dozens of towels, this is a great option.

The screen cleaner spray from IT Dusters - called “Screen Mom” - is plant-based and contains no odour, alcohol, ammonia, or harmful chemicals. The kit also contains a 40xm x 40cm microfibre towel and in combination they can be used to remove tough prints, oils or streaks from screens, including TVs, monitors, laptops and phones. The company says that the 16oz bottle has enough for more than 1,500 sprays, but always remember to only spray on the cloth - and never on the TV screen itself.

The GreatShield cleaning kit contains one 20cm x 15cm microfibre cloth, one 60ml bottle of sterile solution cleaner and a brush that can be used to help remove dust or debris from your TV ports and remote control. The screen cleaner does not contain ammonia or phosphate and claims to be completely non-static and non-streak. As with all cleaning solutions, only spray on the cloth – never on the TV screen itself – and read up on your own TV manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning the model.

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