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TV & Streaming

How do I fix a TV that will not turn on?

Answer

Unplug the TV for a couple of minutes, plug it straight into a different wall outlet, then try the power button on the TV itself. If it still stays dark, test the outlet with another device and check whether any standby light appears.

Before you start: stop right away if…

  • If you smell burning, see sparks, or the plug or outlet is hot, stop and unplug the TV if it is safe to do so.

Follow these steps

  1. Unplug the TV completely

    Unplug the TV power cord from the wall outlet and leave it unplugged for about 2 full minutes.

    You should see: The TV is fully disconnected and any residual power can clear.

  2. Plug into a different wall outlet

    Plug the TV directly into a different wall outlet. Do not use a power strip, surge protector, or extension cord for this test.

    You should see: The cord is firmly seated in a known wall outlet.

  3. Try the power button on the TV

    Press the power button on the TV itself rather than only the remote. Check the underside, bottom edge, side bezel, or rear panel if the button is hard to find.

    You should see: The TV turns on, a standby light changes, or there is still no response.

  4. Retest with the remote and another device

    If the TV still stays off, try the remote again with fresh batteries, then plug a lamp or phone charger into the same outlet to confirm the outlet works.

    You should see: You know whether the outlet is live and whether only the TV remains unresponsive.

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Extra tips

What to look for: Whether any standby light blinks or turns on, whether the TV responds to the physical power button, and whether another device works in the same outlet.

Before you change anything: Confirm the TV is plugged into a live outlet and the power cord is fully seated. Move the TV off power strips or surge protectors for the first test. Avoid opening the TV case or cutting cords. Do not pay an unexpected fee or follow popup “repair” links.

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