A much better and more creative idea is to transform your old cabinet TV into something else.

Here are some terrific ideas for transforming your old TV into something cool.

For another, CRT televisions usually involve some surprisingly large capacitors.

Remove the back of the TV cabinet.

This should be a matter of removing a few screws.

The backing might be attached to the tube and electronics inside or it might be separate.

If its attached, pull it out gently as far as you’ve got the option to.

Investigate the electronic components and how to remove them.

Again, this should require just undoing a few screws and lifting the whole component out.

Clean up the inside and outside.

Replace the back panel, or cut a new one and screw it into place.

Your furry friend can jump in and out through the opening where the screen used to be.

After that you could paint the cabinet inside and out if you want.

This involves removing the back and guts of the TV again and getting it ready for aquatic life.

Inspect the cabinet for strength.

Aquariums are heavy things, and you should consider reinforcing the bottom of your TV cabinet before proceeding.

Measure the interior of the cabinet and choose an aquarium that will fit inside.

Ideally it should completely fill the screen portion of the cabinet.

Measure from the top of the cabinet to the top of the aquarium.

Youre going to need 2-3 inches of clearance to fit a light fixture.

Without a light your aquarium is going to be pretty hard to see.

Place your aquarium on top of the cabinet and trace its edges.

Add a half inch or so all around, and cut this portion out.

This will allow you access to the aquarium for feeding, etc, without having to remove everything.

Attach a light fixture to the bottom of the lid.

A flat fluorescent fixture is bestonesdesigned to go under kitchen cabinetswill work great.

Might be advisable to fill the tank first and ensure the cabinet can handle the weight.

Its not a tough project:

Remove the back of the TV and the interior electronics.

Drill drainage holes in the bottom of the TVjust a few will allow excess water to drain out.

Consider waterproofing using a liquid rubber,Redgard, or similar product.

Either fill with potting soil and transfer seeds or plants inside, or fill with potted plants.

Heres how to do it:

Remove back panel and interior components.

Insert your new TV or monitor and see how it fits.

Adjust screen opening if necessary.