Why Does My TV Make a Popping Noise?

Have you ever experienced a popping sound from your TV? For most owners, this sound might be alarming and even confused for an internal electrical fault. Some even resort to getting a top-rated TV instead of having it fixed. However, as strange as it may sound, it could be due to temperature changes in your unit and not an internal hardware issue.

The cracking or popping sound that can be heard right after turning off your TV is caused by different components inside your unit as they cool. However, if the popping noise is coming from the inside of your TV, the most likely cause is a hardware fault. If you have been wondering why your TV makes a popping noise, we’ve made a short post to help you understand and fix the issue.

What Causes a TV Popping Noise?

Your TV uses a combination of metal and plastic material in its construct. When in use, these materials will expand and contract due to temperature changes in your TV. When the temperature changes occur, the user is likely to hear a cracking or popping sound.

It’s essential to note that these sounds are completely harmless and will not damage or affect the operation of your unit.

Popping and cracking noise can still be experienced due to other issues with your TV ranging from the power supply, external speakers, or problems with your input devices.

Loose Connections

Sometimes, popping noises will be due to input device connections. Therefore, carefully examine the cable connecting your input device for damage. If the wires look worn-out or damaged, consider replacing them with higher shielding options. Make sure you firmly plug in the HDMI, Coaxial, or composite cables into your TV and input sources. A loose internet cable may also be the reason why your TV keeps buffering.

Faulty Audio Settings

Depending on your TV model, it may have advanced audio settings that could produce popping sounds when poorly connected. Navigate through the options and turn off any advanced settings that might be on. If the noise persists, then your TV might be trying to compensate for a weak audio signal from your input sources. Switching your audio source could resolve the issue.

Faulty Power Supply

The power supply system in modern TVs works by charging and discharging your TV’s capacitors. During the processes, the capacitors can produce a popping sound when overcharged. Unfortunately, this can lead to TV hardware failure and you may wonder why your TV turns off by itself.

How to Fix TV Popping Noise

In normal circumstances, TV popping isn’t considered a problem. However, it is still essential to take care of your TV to enjoy its benefits for an extended time. The following are tips on how to reduce expansion inside your TV that often lead to popping sounds:

1. Ventilation: Depending on where you store your TV, make sure there is proper ventilation. Lack of adequate ventilation will force the plastic material in your TV to expand more than usual. Check the owner’s manual for TV ventilation requirements.
2. Keep the TV away from vents: Make sure your TV isn’t close to any vents that are directly pointing at the unit.
3. Positioning and Placement: Make sure any points you place on the TV are flat and level. Tilting your TV screen can increase the effect of popping sounds.

F.A.Q.