How To Distribute Video Around The House
Learning how to distribute video around the house is a key part of a modern AV (audio-visual) system, so you can enjoy your favourite films, shows and streaming services in any room, without multiple devices or messy cables.
Whether you’re building a new smart home or upgrading your existing set-up, a well-designed video distribution system will deliver a seamless, quality viewing experience across your entire property.
What is Video Distribution?
Video distribution allows you to send video signals from a central source (e.g. Sky box, Apple TV, Blu-ray player or media server) to multiple screens around your home. Instead of having separate devices in every room, all your content is stored and managed centrally and delivered to your chosen displays via a dedicated AV system.
What are the main ways to distribute video at home?
1. HDMI Matrixes
An HDMI matrix allows you to connect multiple video sources (e.g. Sky, Netflix, games consoles) to multiple TVs or projectors. Each screen can select any source independently so everyone in the household can watch what they want, where they want.
2. Video over IP (AV over IP)
This method uses your home network to distribute video signals over Ethernet. It’s a flexible and scalable solution, especially for larger properties. It supports 4K content, longer cable runs and centralised control of all displays.
3. HDBaseT Systems
HDBaseT transmits ultra-high definition video, audio, Ethernet and control signals over a single Cat6 or Cat7 cable. It’s ideal for whole home installations, great performance and reliability.
What to consider when planning a video distribution system
1. Property layout
Your home’s size, layout and existing cabling will influence the best approach. Working with an AV professional will ensure the system is tailored to your home with discreet hardware placement and minimal disruption.
2. Control and ease of use
User experience is key. A good video distribution system should be easy to use – whether via a universal remote, wall-mounted touch panel or smartphone app. It should feel seamless to switch between rooms or set up multiple screens to show the same content.
3. Quality of content
Make sure your system supports high-resolution formats like 4K HDR so you get the best picture on every screen, not just in your main viewing room.
Why work with a specialist?
Video distribution around the house may seem simple, but it requires planning, technical knowledge and understanding of how different systems integrate. Working with an experienced AV integrator ensures it all works, both technically and visually.
At Element 29, we design and install bespoke home video distribution systems. Whether you need a simple 2-room setup or a whole home solution with central control, our team will assess your requirements, recommend the best technology and deliver a system that sits neatly in your home.