Keep It Cool
All HT components generate heat - the amount varying with the type. Some have built-in fans (aren’t we glad we dusted already), but most rely on just dissipating heat away from them as they run.  Since heat rises, it’s important to have space above a component - especially if two devices are stacked one on top of the other (something we don’t recommend doing). There’s a reason why home theater furniture often has a large piece, if not the entire back missing. But without a way to move that heat around, a device inside of an enclosure gets the sauna treatment.

Since few family members will subscribe to keeping the room cold when it’s 10 degrees below outside - we suggest using fans to keep the air moving. Just putting a small fan in the corner and having it blow over to the other side can be a start, but real solutions come from dedicated fan units that are designed for consumer electronics. These consist of a shelf with integrated fan that sits above a top-vented device or even below it, such as the Dual-Mode Component Cooler. The Cool-Stick works within the miniscule confines behind a wall mounted Plasma display. Through use of fans such as these, heat build-up will be significantly reduced, resulting in longer life and better operation of all the components.

Keep It Juiced
Electricity is the driving force behind CE devices, and losing power even for a split-second can be disastrous. Having a surge protector to watch out for vagaries in the AC supply is a given, and while price varies depending upon manufacturer or model, the value does not. I recommend Panamax’s Flat-panel AC line conditioner/surge suppressor (MFP500-EX) which mounts directly to a flat-panel display or wall, and their component styled MAX 5400-EX with eleven outlets and dual digital meter display of the incoming AC voltage and current draw. They also have a model designed for protecting a plugged-in powered subwoofer, the Max 2 Sub.

AC safety, however, should also be extended to use of uninterruptible power supplies (UPS). These are well-known to computer users who appreciate being able to save their work and shut down the PC instead of having it just die on them.  There’s real value in having components attached to a UPS; for example, if the bulb of a rear-projection display or front projector gets terminated without having been allowed to cool down as it shuts off. Unexpectedly cutting the power can result in shortening the life of the bulb by as much as 30% and since the bulb can retail for as much as $300+, that’s something you’d want to avoid having happen.

Home theater maintenance may not sound sexy, but it’s a sure way to guarantee years of enjoyment from all of your CE devices.

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