Keeping your
HDTV clean
YOU’VE MADE THE BIG MOVE to a new flat-panel TV. You’ve subscribed to a
high-definition service to get the right signals. You’ve set up a surround-sound
system for the complete theater-like experience. Given all the expense and
steps it takes to enjoy the true HD experience, doesn’t it make sense to keep
that new big screen clean?
Of course! Big screens attract dust, which can dull the picture. However,
keeping them clean requires very careful handling. The problem stems from
the fact that many plasma and LCD TVs have a special antiglare coating that
can be damaged by the wrong cleaning materials and techniques.
For information on your specific model, the first step is to check the
user’s guide or the manufacturer’s Web site.
Here are some guidelines for keeping your TV clean.
1. Unplug the power cord from the wall or surge protector before
cleaning the TV.
2. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust from the TV screen. Do not use
an abrasive material such as a paper towel to do this.
3. Don’t use liquid or aerosol cleaners unless they’re especially intended
for this purpose.
4. For tougher dirt or fingerprints, proceed with caution. Some manufacturers say you can use a slightly damp cloth with mild soap to lightly
clean the screen’s surface. Others say you should never use anything
but a dry cloth. Check your user’s manual.
5. Do not press hard on the screen while cleaning it.
To keep your entire entertainment center looking sharp, it’s safe to dust
the TV cabinet with a damp cloth or mild cleaner. Just make sure that no
liquids drip down into the electronic equipment. You can use a compressed-gas duster (see page 171) to blow dust from hard-to-reach spots. Clean speaker grills by dusting them with a dry cloth: Wet cleaners can stain or damage
them.—Tim Talevich
