Are TV Aerials Weatherproof?

In the UK, we’re no strangers to unpredictable weather. From heavy rain and strong winds to snow and hailstorms, Mother Nature throws a lot our way. If you hope to maintain optimum signal strength throughout all this, you must equip your TV aerial to withstand the elements. Learn what weather conditions prove the most problematic, how to weatherproof your antenna and tips to identify and solve common issues with TV aerials.

Weather That Can Cause Physical Damage or Impact TV Signal Strength

All kinds of weather can impact exterior installations like TV aerials. Here’s a look at some relevant concerns for UK residents:

• Rain and hailstorms: Heavy rain and hail can force water inside your aerial, impacting the signal strength and, in some cases, causing your TV aerial signal to stop working altogether. Rain and hail can also physically damage your aerial, especially without proper weatherproofing.
• High winds and cyclones: Strong winds can strain your aerial tremendously, causing misalignment or other damage that leads to a broken TV aerial. High winds are relatively common across the UK, so securely fastening your outdoor aerial is crucial.
• Snow and ice: Cold, snowy weather leads to ice and snow accumulation on your aerial, adding significant weight and potentially causing structural damage. The added weight can also misalign your aerial, causing a poor signal or stopping the TV aerial from working at all.
• Lightning strikes: While rare, lightning strikes can severely damage your TV aerial. The resulting power surge may completely fry the antenna, connected equipment and cabling, making it unlikely that these components will ever work again.
• Heat waves: Although less common in the UK, heat waves threaten your TV aerial’s performance. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can damage the internal components and cause signal degradation, which may not improve until the weather cools off.

Weatherproofing Your TV Aerial

Follow these essential tips to help your TV aerial withstand the elements and maintain performance in all weather conditions:

• Quality materials and construction: Investing in a quality-assured aerial made from robust materials like aluminium or stainless steel is the first step to withstanding harsh weather conditions. A well-constructed aerial is more resistant to water ingress, helping to maintain signal strength during heavy rain.
• Proper installation: Ensure your aerial is correctly installed and securely fastened to your roof or wall to promote longevity. A professional TV aerial installer follows proven installation techniques to secure your aerial against high winds and other adverse weather conditions.
• Weatherproof connectors and cabling: Components rated for outdoor use protect your aerial from signal issues caused by water ingress. Weatherproof connectors and cabling are specifically designed to operate in wet conditions, which is particularly beneficial in the UK’s rainy climate.
• Regular maintenance: Maintaining your TV aerial is the key to identifying and resolving small issues before they become more serious. Check your aerial periodically for any signs of damage, corrosion or misalignment, particularly after severe weather events.

Identifying and Solving Common TV Aerial Issues

If your TV aerial is damaged or not working, you may need help from a professional aerial repair company to fix it. Some common TV aerial issues include:

• Damaged or broken aerial: If adverse weather has damaged your aerial, you may be stuck with poor signal strength or no television at all until you get it fixed. TV aerial repair isn’t usually a do-it-yourself task, so seek help from a professional.
• Misaligned aerial: Strong winds and heavy snow can misalign your aerial. If the problem is minor, try realigning it yourself. However, if you can’t restore a strong, stable signal, contact a professional TV aerial installer for help.
• Water ingress: If water has entered the fittings, you need a TV aerial repair specialist to assess the damage and replace any affected components. This professional can complete the repair by effectively weatherproofing your aerial to prevent future water ingress.
• Lightning damage: A TV aerial that has been struck by lightning may never work properly again. Seek a professional’s advice to see if replacing the fried components is worthwhile. You can also receive guidance on protecting your aerial system from future lightning strikes.

Schedule TV Aerial Repair in the UK

The local engineers at James Wilson TV Aerials provide top-quality aerial installations and repairs. Our team draw on years of experience, allowing us to assess your TV aerial, identify any issues and recommend solutions to keep you connected, rain or shine. We also offer same-service where available, so you’re not left without your favourite programmes for long. Don’t let adverse weather conditions disrupt your television viewing experience—call us on 0800 001 4212 or contact us online to book professional TV aerial repair today.