No wall mount. No bulky unit. Just a screen that lifts effortlessly at the touch of a button when you want it to appear, and retracts when you don't.
If you've been considering a TV bed, you're probably already sold on the appeal.
But before you buy, it's important to familiarise yourself with how the lift mechanism itself works, and whether it's going to hold up over time - as a TV bed only earns its keep if the lift mechanism is reliable.
In this blog, our experts at TV Bed answer all your questions to help you make your final decision.
How does a TV bed mechanism work?
Your television sits inside the footboard, which is the deeper, padded section at the foot of the bed.
At the touch of a button, a motorised lift raises the screen smoothly into view. When you're done watching, the same button on the remote, or on the side of the frame, lowers it back down, and the bed looks like any other once again.
Cabling for the TV and any connected devices runs through the internal channels inside the frame, so nothing is trailing across the floor. Most beds route power to a single wall socket, helping keep your whole setup tidy.
Types of TV lift mechanisms
Not every TV bed lifts in the same way, and typically, you'll come across three types:
- Manual or pneumatic lift - A gas-assisted mechanism you raise by hand, no motor involved. Simple, quiet, and with fewer components to go wrong - a good option if you'd rather not think about electronics at all.
- Electric or motorised lift - Operated by a remote control or a button built into the side rail, this is the most common setup, and the one most people picture when they think of a TV bed. Smooth, silent, and effortless to use on a daily basis.
All our TV mechanism motors at TV Bed have a safety cut-off feature when the TV is lowered, so you don't have to worry about forgetting to turn the TV off.
What makes a TV bed mechanism wear out faster?
Like any moving part, a TV bed lift will last longest when it isn't put under unnecessary strain. A few things that make the biggest difference include:
- Ignoring the TV weight and size limit - Every TV bed is designed around a maximum screen size, typically 32" to 43", and mounting anything heavier or larger than specified strains the lift.
- Frequency of use - A mechanism that's raised and lowered several times a day will naturally show signs of wear sooner than one used only occasionally. This is true of any motorised furniture, not just TV beds.
- Build quality - The pivot points, gears, and motor housing all vary between manufacturers. Cheaper, poorly finished components are the most common cause of early failure, but this isn't a problem with our TV beds, as they're expertly manufactured using only the finest materials.
How long do motorised TV bed mechanisms actually last?
There's no one answer to this question that applies across the UK TV bed market, and it depends heavily on the individual bed's build quality, how it's used, and how well it's looked after. Be wary of any retailer who quotes a precise lifespan without backing it up. However, at TV Bed, we've had previous customers comment they've had one of our beds for 15+ years, and it still performs exactly as it should!
One thing you can rely on, though, is the warranty behind the bed, as this tells you exactly what the manufacturer is willing to stand behind, in writing.
At TV Bed, each of our beds comes with a 12-month manufacturer's warranty as standard, with a 5-year structural warranty available to purchase separately through one of our Fabric Care Kits. This explicitly covers defects to TV lift mechanisms, not just the frame or fabric.
How to look after TV bed lift mechanisms
TV bed mechanisms aren't high maintenance, and all it takes is:
- Keeping storage compartments within the recommended weight limit
- Sticking to the TV size and weight the bed is designed for
A little really does go a long way!
Enhance your viewing experience with a TV bed!
At TV Bed, we have a range of stunning options available, so you're sure to find the perfect fit for your bedroom.
If you have any questions about how our TV beds work, or need advice on size and style, our in-house specialists are here to assist you - give us a call today on 01942 718 471 or visit our Haydock showroom to see our range in person!
