13 Common DTV Aerial and Satellite Problems.
“There is nothing better than kicking back and watching TV at the end of the day but what do you do if your signal isn’t great, or you’re not even picking up a signal at all? The first thing to do is to check to see if you’re suffering from one of these common antenna problems. If you suspect that you are, or you need more help with your reception issues, just have a chat with your local antenna specialist.”
1) Deterioration of the Aerial Cable
One of the most common problems with TV reception is the deterioration of the antenna cable, either inside or outside the home. The outside jacket of the cable can actually wear away, allowing water and other contaminants in which actually degrades the quality of your signal. If you notice that your reception is worse during rainy periods, this might be something to consider.
2) Issues with the Antenna Outlet
Another common issue with antennas concerns the actual outlet inside the home. Over time, the connector inside the outlet can become loose, causing an issue with reception. There may also be a problem with how the actual antenna outlet was connected to the cable that runs to the external antenna. In some cases, the insulation is not removed from the cable fully, so it doesn’t connect properly to the outlet.
3) Broken Fly Leads
One common problem, and also one of the easiest to fix, is a broken fly lead. A fly lead is simply the lead that you use to connect your TV to the antenna, plugging one end into the TV and the other into the antenna outlet on the wall. If you suspect that there is a problem with your fly lead, you can try another one that you know works well. Fly leads often develop issues near the plug fitting as they get bumped, bent and broken.
4) The Aerial Needs Upgrading
As the networks upgrade from analogue broadcasting to digital broadcasting, you need to make sure that you have the right equipment to receive the digital signal, including a digital antenna. If your antenna is older than a few years, it might not be capable of effectively receiving a digital television signal and you will need to upgrade. Of course, you should have checked that you have a digital TV or a digital set top box first.
5) The Aerial Faces in the Wrong Direction
It may seem somewhat inconsequential but the fact is that the direction the antenna faces can have a big effect on the overall reception. If you’ve moved your antenna recently and it has caused you to have less than ideal reception, you’ll need to call out a professional to reorient the antenna to the best position. You want the antenna facing near broadcast towers and away from any obstacles that can impair the signal.
6) Aerial issues.
Storms, strong winds and heavy rain can result in an aerial being broken or coming loose. If this is the case then it’s best to call in a professional aerial engineer.
7) Weather woes.
Weather conditions can affect your TV reception, so when it’s warm and fine with high air pressure you may find that your favourite programmes are affected.
8) Interference.
Electrical and radio interference can cause reception issues. Cordless/mobile phones (4G), baby monitors, washing machines and other appliances can create interference that will affect your viewing.
“Satellite problems can be frustrating, particularly if your favourite programme is about to start! If your box isn’t getting a decent signal you may notice the picture breaking up, pixilation, or that some channels can’t be received.”
Check the following to get your satellite TV back in business:
9) Dish alignment.
If you’ve recently had heavy winds or rain then the dish could have been knocked or blown out of alignment. Call a satellite engineer in for this problem.
10) Blocked signal.
The dish needs a clear line of sight to the satellite. Scaffolding, buildings, walls and even trees blocking the path to the satellite can cause interference.
11) Bad weather.
Heavy rain can affect your satellite TV reception. If high winds cause problems then dish may not be securely fixed. Call a satellite engineer to get the dish secured.
12) Check your cables.
Make sure that the feed is securely connected and that the cable from the dish to the back of your satellite receiver is undamaged.
13) LNB (Low Noise Block) problems.
If the LNB develops a fault then you’ll probably experience lost channels or problems with polarisation. If you have a problem with your LNB then it may need to be replaced.
“If in doubt as your local engineer to help or advise on the best course of action. We at SKYTEC AERIALS will be more than willing to help. Along with our expertise and professional approach we are more than capable to sort out your signal issues. All work undertaken is backed by a written 12 month guarantee.”