How to Improve Your TV Signal
You’re watching your favourite programme when suddenly, the signal is lost or the image becomes pixelated, leaving you with an unwatchable screen. How annoying! If you’re struggling with this all-too-common TV issue, don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to fix it. Here are the top tips for improving your TV signal, plus some frequently asked questions about maximising your telly-watching experience.
Check Your TV Aerial Alignment
The first troubleshooting tip is to realign your TV aerial. If it’s not facing the nearest transmitter, you might not receive the best Freeview signal. Use a compass or smartphone app to determine the direction your aerial should be pointing. Then, physically adjust the aerial if necessary. You may even need to reinstall the aerial at a higher point to improve your signal strength. This is not a DIY job, so call in a professional to avoid risking injury or property damage.
Use a TV Antenna Amplifier
A TV antenna amplifier, also known as a signal booster, can be a game-changer, especially if you split the antenna signal between multiple TVs. This device boosts the signal before it reaches your telly, improving the overall quality. Note that not all amplifiers are the same, so be sure to choose one that suits your situation. If you’re unsure which one is best, ask a professional TV aerial installer for advice.
Remove Your Splitter
Hooking up multiple TVs to a single aerial through a splitter shouldn’t be a problem for up to four TVs. However, if you live in a weak signal area or run five or more TVs through a single aerial, the signal may weaken noticeably. To tackle this issue, consider replacing your splitter with a distribution amplifier to boost the incoming signal and provide multiple outputs all in a single device. This ensures each television receives a stronger, better-quality signal for improved picture and sound across all your screens.
Check Your Cabling
Damaged, poor-quality or overly long coaxial cables can degrade your TV signal. It’s worth checking your cabling for visible signs of wear or damage. If you find any issues, replace your cables with higher-quality options of the proper length to improve the signal.
Minimise Interference
Electrical devices like Wi-Fi routers and microwaves can interfere with your TV signal. To minimise the impact, keep these devices as far away from your aerial and TV as possible. Also, consider using shielded cables to further reduce the impact of signal interference.
Upgrade Your TV Aerial
If the above tips aren’t enough to resolve your TV signal problems, it could mean an old or damaged aerial is the culprit. Upgrading your aerial to one with a higher gain may significantly improve signal strength and make for a better viewing experience. Different types of aerials are available, so do your research to determine which one fits your needs and location best. A professional aerial installer can help you make the right choice.
FAQs About Clearing Up Your TV Signal
Why does my Freeview TV signal break up or pixelate?
This problem is typically due to weak or fluctuating signal strength. This can be caused by various factors, including poor aerial alignment, damaged cabling or interference from other devices.
Can weather conditions affect my TV signal?
Yes. Heavy rain, high winds, snow and other adverse weather conditions can temporarily weaken your TV signal and disrupt your viewing experience. Once the weather clears, your signal should return to normal.
How can I determine the best location for my aerial?
The ideal spot to install a TV aerial is typically on your roof or in your loft, pointing towards the nearest transmitter. A professional aerial installer can help you find the best location for the strongest signal possible.
Can I use an indoor aerial to improve my TV signal?
Indoor aerials can work in some situations but are generally less effective than outdoor aerials. If you’re struggling with your TV signal, consult a professional aerial installer to discuss your options.
Schedule TV and Aerial Services in the UK
Repeatedly losing your TV signal can be frustrating. Luckily, James Wilson TV Aerial Installer is here to help. If you can’t get your TV signal to improve on your own, let us know. Our expertise in aerial installation, upgrades and maintenance means we’ll have your picture and sound quality looking great in a jiffy.
Don’t let TV signal issues ruin your favourite shows—contact James Wilson on 0800 001 4212 for local one-hour service in your part of the UK. With our help, you can sit back, relax and enjoy crystal-clear TV with no more interruptions!
