How to Handle an Old TV


If Black Friday was any indication, there is a good chance your home will or has received a brand new flat-screen television. These marvels of modern technology are extremely powerful, feature Internet capabilities, and offer HD picture quality. These flat-screen televisions also fit seamlessly onto any wall or surface and add to the décor of your home just like a piece of art.

While your new television may give you years of entertainment, there is a good chance that your old sets are being neglected. These devices have brought countless memories and catch-phrases into our lives and do not deserve the terrible fate they often succumb to in the dusty storage closets and attics of American homes. Instead of relegating your old tube to the sidelines, there are several other options you can choose to restore its dignity and bring it back to its former glory:

Retro-Fitted Basement Bar

While rustic, hand-crafted wood furniture from sites like http://www.amish-furniture-home.com is gaining popularity in living rooms across the country, the classic cocktail movement is taking over bars. What better way to add to a gin-inspired basement bar than by converting your old TV to a black and white set, hanging it in the corner, and playing reruns of Mad Men on a Netflix stream?

Recycle It!

Whenever I see a television set on the corner of someone’s driveway, I shed a tear. There are people around the world who would do anything to have a device that just gets basic picture and sound. The garbagemen who have to dump these things into their trucks could suffer hernias because of the weight they have to lift. Fortunately, Best Buy has a television recycling program that allows you to turn in your old set so they can use it for parts.

Lighted Table

The one thing that the old television sets offered was stability. You could place candles, picture frames, and anything else imaginable on top of your set. If you want a truly illuminating television experience, try removing the tube and replacing it with a colored light of your choice. Place important keepsakes and memories on top of it so you can highlight your family life for visitors.

TV Fish Tank

Back in the 1970′s, people used to wear platform shoes that had a mini goldfish tank placed in the heel. While this unethical fashion style died over time, you can still get the same retro feel out of your old TV. By removing the insides and replacing the curved screen with a properly fitted glass tank, you can build an aquarium that houses several different fish. You can even use the wired electricity to wire up a water filter.

Just because the technology is outdated doesn’t mean there is no use for your old TV. Just like other retro styles always make a comeback, some parts of interior design will never go away. The television has been a staple in the homes of America for the past 60 years and is not going anywhere any time soon.