We spend a lot of time in the kitchen and it’s not very exciting so a lot of people opt for some form of entertaining distraction. The TV is a popular option but even though you can get some pretty small models they still take up valuable counter real estate. For those of us short on counter space we can get an under the cabinet tv. Designed to fit into a confined space they tend to be smaller than conventional TVs. It’s a small compromise on keeping your counter free for preparing meals and having the luxury of a TV. They are also a great way to keep a TV out of harms way in the rumpus room when the kids are playing.
As with other electrical appliances under counter TVs come with their own range of options so you need to explore those before purchase. Some models come with radios in them which can be handy if you just want to listen to some tunes or the news when there is nothing on the tube. For a kids rumpus room an under the cabinet TV can also include a built in DVD player. This is also great if you plan on following along to cooking DVDs. Because they are going to be used mostly in the kitchen many of these TVs have a built in clock and timer feature.
Screen size is more important than stand alone TVs as you probably have a confined space to fit it in. It also pays to make sure you have a power socket available as you don’t want power leads trailing all over your kitchen. Check the viewing angles of the TV as well as there are some cheaper units with terrible viewing angles. Having a swiveling TV can counteract the problem of the viewing angle to some degree if you’re happy purchasing a cheaper model. A magnetic remote is also an appealing feature. You’ll always know where the remote is as it magnetically attaches to the fridge for easy access and storage.
A perfect time to shop for under the cabinet TVs is when you are remodeling the kitchen. You need to be certain of your chosen location of the TV though. Because of the way they need to be installed these TVs can be very difficult to move to another position. Relocating could mean having to install a new power and antenna socket and lay some cable. If you need to get an electrician in to do this then it could end up costing more than the TV itself. Naturally your TV will need to be viewable from most if not all of the areas of the kitchen. Keep it viewable in an area you know you are going to be spending most of your time in.
New LCD screens have made under the cabinet TVs more practical than ever due to their larger viewing angles. Extra features such as timers and alarms can make them useful for more than watching TV as well. With a TV in your kitchen and your favorite cooking DVD you’ll easily be able to follow the instructions for that meal you’ve always been wanting to try. If you would like more information and where to find great deals have a look at the author’s website at under cabinet tv for kitchen.