Dead pixel or line on the screen: what to do?
A tiny dot that never lights up, a vertical line running across the picture: these faults are worrying, and rightly so. Some can be fixed, others fall under the warranty. Here's how to recognise them and what to do.
- Test the screen with plain colours (white, black, red, green, blue)
- A stuck pixel may sometimes come back, a dead pixel no
- A line on the screen is a panel defect: warranty
- Note the date and take a photo before contacting us
Recognising the fault
The dead pixel
A dot that stays black on a white background. The pixel no longer lights up: it does not come back.
The stuck pixel
A red, green or blue dot that stays lit on a black background. It can sometimes unstick.
The line
A thin line, vertical or horizontal, coloured or black, that remains whatever the image. It is a fault in the panel or its connection.
Running the test
- On YouTube or from a USB stick, display full-screen plain images : white, black, red, green, blue.
- Look at the screen closely, from 30 cm, area by area.
- Take a photo photo of the fault on a plain background.
What to do next
- A stuck pixel : leave a ‘unsticking' video running for a few hours, which flashes the colours. It sometimes works, but with no guarantee.
- An isolated dead pixel : each manufacturer sets a number of faulty pixels it tolerates depending on the screen size. Contact us with the photo, and we will check the brand's rule.
- A line : it is a fault covered by the warranty. Do not tap the screen or unplug anything: contact us.
Run the plain-image test as soon as your new TV is installed. A fault spotted straight away is much easier to sort out.
Frequently asked questions
Can a dead pixel spread?
An isolated dead pixel usually stays stable. If several appear or an area spreads, contact us promptly.
A line that appears then disappears: serious?
Yes, it is often a sign of a panel connection problem, which can get worse. Have it checked under warranty.
A lighter patch on a plain background, is that a dead pixel?
No, it is more likely an uneven backlight. It is common on LED TVs and often only visible on a plain grey background.
Come and compare the screens in person
At our Temploux shop, we switch on TVs side by side with your content. Or ask our expert salesperson online, right now.
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