Is it safe to put TVs/game consoles on carpet?

[JadeETC]

I have a 1983 TV hooked up on the carpet in my bedroom. The Atari 2600 is on top, the NES is on the floor.

 

Is it safe to play games like this? Will the static from the carpet destroy my TV or something?

[fiddlepaddle]

Mostly, it's a heat-dissipation issue. Make sure any vents allow free flow of air. Not likely any static electricity issue unless you drag the console (or cartridge) across the carpet. Of course, if you drag your feet across the carpet and build up a charge in yourself, then touch something, you CAN discharge enough current to damage it.

[+Psionic]

Yeah, heat build-up can sometimes be an issue when a TV or console is left running on a carpet for long periods of time. I wouldn't worry too much with a 2600 or NES, but be careful with other systems that are much more prone to heat damage (such as a PS3 or a Bally Astrocade, for instance).

[Chuck D. Head]

I have noticed a particular propensity for the original Intellivision to overheat when used on carpet. In general, if the bottom of a piece of electronics has ventilation slots or holes, then it should be sitting on a hard surface.

[Rex Dart]

Yeah. Just set the console on a book or something.

[JadeETC]

My TV has no vents on the bottom. Is it still ok to use?

[fiddlepaddle]

My TV has no vents on the bottom. Is it still ok to use?

 

Probably, but better if you could put a flat piece of plywood under it. If heat builds up inside the TV, it might start to flake on you, or other undesirable things. Unlikely but possible worst case, it could catch on fire.