Q. Daylight savings is coming this weekend, which I like except for the fact that it will create sun glare on my TV screen when I try to watch at night. Is there anything that can be done to stop that? — Lucia, Frankfort, Kentucky.
Lucia, you are right. Daylight savings time begins at 2 a.m. ET this Sunday, which means you will need to set your clock up by one hour at that time. It also means the sun will be shining its bright self longer in the day for the next several months, and that can create havoc with your evening TV plans. There’s nothing worse than sitting down after dinner to watch a favorite show only to encounter a blinding yellow glare streaking across your screen.
However, there are some things you can do to improve your viewing experience during the day, particularly when the sun is taking over your room, or during the night when your lamps are too bright.
1. Move Your TV
Position the TV so it doesn’t face a window. This will help eliminate any glare coming in from the sunlight. I realize this is easier said than done for people who live in small apartments, and/or have their sets in small rooms. There are only so many ways to arrange the furniture in a cramped space. So if that’s a problem, try:
2. Getting New Curtains
Invest in some blackout curtains that can keep the daylight at a minimum when you’re watching TV. If you’re not familiar with blackout curtains, they usually come with black liner that adds thickness to the drapes, which helps block sunlight. They can be very effective in keeping the room dark, and contrary to popular opinion, they come in multiple colors, not just gray and black. Blackout curtains also can help absorb sound, which can enhance your TV’s sound effects.
3. Move the Lamps
Let’s say you’ve handled the sun issue, but what about the lamps? They can cause glare on your screen as well. During the night, if possible, place your lamps behind the TV or off to the side so the glare does not directly reflect on the screen.
The problem of TV glare often occurs because you are sitting in a chair next to a lamp. If you can position the set so it’s facing a seating area without a lamp, or with the lamp off, you will notice a marked improvement in the picture. And if you think watching TV in a dark room will hurt your eyesight, read this.
Hope that helps, Lucia. Happy viewing!
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