What to watch out for when repairing a television. We remind you of safety rules that are easy to forget.

Repairing a television may seem like a task for electronics enthusiasts or those with a technical inclination. However, even the most experienced users often ignore basic safety rules. After all, televisions – whether they are modern OLED models or older plasma TVs – contain voltages that can be surprising. And very unpleasantly so.

How to safely disassemble a television at home

The first impulse is simple – something is not working, so you need to check what has broken. But before you remove the casing, disconnect the device from the power supply. Sounds trivial? In reality, many people only turn it off with a button. Meanwhile, capacitors can hold a charge even after unplugging, which means there is a risk of electric shock.

Once you are sure that the device is not powered, take care of your workplace. A stable surface, good lighting, and an anti-static wrist strap – these details make a difference. And it's not just about comfort. A single accidental electrostatic discharge can destroy a delicate integrated circuit.

What to remember when working with the television's motherboard

The motherboard of a television is its heart. It contains image processors, memory, HDMI connectors, and sometimes even Wi-Fi modules. Working with this component requires precision and the right tools. A screwdriver with a magnetic tip can be treacherous if it attracts small electronic components.

Do not touch the motherboard directly with your fingers. Residue leaves marks and increases the risk of corrosion. If you must adjust something – use tweezers or ESD tools. At Eastern Star, we have seen dozens of cases where seemingly minor contamination caused serious short circuits.

Why the power supply in a television requires special caution

The power supply is the component that most often gets damaged. It is usually located on one side of the casing, close to the power cord. And it is this part that most often hides the highest voltages.

Working on the power supply requires not only disconnecting the device but also discharging the capacitors. This task is for those who know how to do it safely. Otherwise, one thoughtless move can end painfully – for both the person and the television.

When it is worth taking the television to a professional service

If you are not sure what exactly has broken, do not have experience working with integrated circuits, or simply lack the right tools – it is better not to take the risk. Repairing it on your own can be tempting, but often ends up incurring additional costs.