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Installing an outlet behind a wall-mounted TV creates a clean, professional look by hiding power cords and reducing cable clutter. While it may seem like a simple upgrade, adding a new electrical outlet involves working with your home’s wiring and must comply with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC).
If you’re planning to mount a television, it’s best to install the outlet before hanging the TV. This makes the installation easier and allows cables to remain hidden inside the wall.
A recessed or properly located outlet allows the television to sit closer to the wall while eliminating visible power cords.
Benefits include:
No. A standard television power cord is not designed to be permanently installed inside a wall.
Running a factory power cord through a wall can violate electrical safety requirements and create a fire hazard. Instead, install a properly wired electrical receptacle behind the TV or use an approved in-wall power relocation kit installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
The outlet should be positioned so it remains hidden behind the television without interfering with the mounting bracket.
The ideal location depends on:
Planning the outlet location before mounting the TV helps avoid having to relocate it later.
Many homeowners choose a recessed electrical outlet because it allows the plug to sit inside the wall cavity, helping the television mount closer to the wall.
Depending on your setup, you may also install:
The right option depends on your entertainment system and wall construction.
Many homeowners install low-voltage cable openings beside the electrical outlet to keep HDMI, Ethernet, speaker, and coaxial cables hidden inside the wall.
Electrical wiring and low-voltage wiring should be installed according to applicable safety requirements and separated where required.
Yes, in many cases an outlet can be added to an existing finished wall.
The installation may involve:
The complexity depends on the wall construction and the location of nearby electrical wiring.
Installing a new outlet requires working with household electrical wiring.
In Ontario, new electrical installations must comply with the Ontario Electrical Safety Code and are generally subject to inspection by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). For safety and compliance, this type of work should be completed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Most televisions do not require a dedicated circuit because they consume relatively little electricity.
However, if your entertainment system includes multiple amplifiers, gaming consoles, powered speakers, or other equipment, an electrician can determine whether the existing circuit has adequate capacity.
Avoid these common mistakes:
Proper planning helps create a cleaner installation and avoids future problems.
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is mounting the TV first and thinking about the outlet later. Planning the outlet, cable routing, and equipment locations before installation results in a cleaner appearance and often reduces installation costs. It’s also a great opportunity to add network cables or conduit for future upgrades.
No. Standard appliance power cords are not intended to be concealed inside walls. A properly installed receptacle or approved power relocation system should be used instead.
A recessed outlet sits deeper inside the wall, allowing the TV plug to fit behind the television without pushing it away from the wall.
Yes. In many homes, a licensed electrician can install a new outlet without major wall repairs, depending on the wall construction and access.
Yes. If the wall is already being opened, it’s an excellent opportunity to install low-voltage cabling for future entertainment upgrades.
Installing an outlet behind a wall-mounted TV is one of the best ways to create a clean, modern entertainment space. When completed properly, it improves appearance, reduces cable clutter, and provides safe, convenient power for your television and connected devices.
If you’re mounting a new TV or upgrading your entertainment area, the licensed electricians at EZ Smart can install code-compliant outlets, recessed receptacles, and complete home entertainment wiring throughout Ontario.
Call us today: 416-838-9006
Contact Us to schedule an electrical installation or request a free estimate.
Electrician Since 2008 Journeyman Electrician Designated Master Electrician at EZSMART Corp
