We hear a lot these days about how streaming services are replacing cable subscriptions. However, recent studies have proven that that’s not the case. In fact, the number of households that rely on an outdoor antenna for their cable connection has increased in the past three years.
For many households, an antenna offers the best method for accessing the channels you need and want. However, your TV antenna doesn’t come without problems.
How do you know if you need professional antenna repairs? First and foremost, any necessary repair should be handled by a pro. Your antenna involves specialized equipment, and repairing an antenna on your own can be dangerous.
That being said, it’s not always easy to recognize that you’re in need of antenna repairs, in the first place. We’re here to help! Read on for seven sure signs that you need professional antenna repairs.
1. Antenna Displacement or Damage
Visible damage is a pretty clear-cut sign that you’re in need of antenna repairs. What does antenna damage look like?
Wear and bad weather can cause an antenna to shift on your roof or mounting pole. You may also notice that the antenna is dented from falling debris or that some pieces appear loose or missing.
If the damage isn’t severe, it often makes more financial sense to have the antenna repaired, rather than replacing the entire system.
2. Low Range
When you purchase and install an antenna, you select your antenna based on its degree of range. The degree of range refers to how far (usually expressed in miles or kilometers) the antenna can “stretch” its signal and pick up information from broadcast towers. Generally speaking, the wider the range, the more channels your antenna can get.
When your antenna is first installed, you probably don’t notice any problems with range. However, it’s not uncommon when, over time, that range starts to decrease and you can’t pick up channels you once could.
If this occurs, do a bit of investigating. It’s possible that those channels are no longer in commission, explaining why you’re no longer getting them. However, if they are up and running, an antenna professional will need to repair your antenna to bring back your original range.
3. Bad Reception
Bad reception is one of the most common signs that you’re in need of antenna repairs. Bad reception entails that while your range is technically still intact, the signal isn’t strong enough for optimal viewing.
What does that look like on your end? Usually, bad reception will alter the visual and audio effects on your television. You may see and hear static, notice a lag in the audio, or find that channels tend to fade in and out.
4. Dead Signal
Nothing will wake you up to the reality that you need antenna repairs faster than a dead signal. In other words, you turn on the TV and nothing happens or you get a constant “Searching” message with no results.
If this happens, there is one DIY antenna repair step we encourage you to try. Open up your TV’s settings and follow the signal rediscovery options. This will restore your connection if the TV, itself, disconnected with a functional antenna.
If your signal rediscovery options don’t work, then the issue lies in the antenna technology. An antenna professional will start with an inspection to determine whether or not you’re looking at a replacement or if repairs will do the trick.
5. Damaged Cables
Your antenna relies on a few different cables to connect the antenna technology to a power source and to your TV. Damaged cables can interfere with your connection. In some cases, damaged cables may be the source of what appears to be bad reception or a dead signal.
Feel free to inspect the cables that are easy to access (as in, the ones that connect to your television). If they are frayed, split, or otherwise physically damaged, replacing the cables may do the trick.
If you’re unsure about the state of the cables on your roof or mounting pole, let the professionals handle it. We never recommend climbing up on your roof and tinkering with wiring unless you have professional experience.
6. You’ve Gone Years Without Antenna Repairs
It’s possible that you have yet to experience any problems with your antenna and so you’ve foregone maintenance. The best way to maintain a functional antenna for years to come is to have your antenna technology inspected on a regular basis.
If it’s been years since you’ve had any antenna maintenance, it’s time to give the pros a call. How often you should be getting routine maintenance will depend on the manufacturer of your antenna and what they recommend.
You can find more information on our Antenna Installation recommendations and schedule your next maintenance visit today.
7. You’re Ready For an Upgrade
Sometimes you’re not in need of antenna repairs but instead, you’re looking for an antenna upgrade. Maybe the antenna you have now doesn’t have the range you’re looking for. Maybe it can’t quite keep up with today’s high-definition broadcasting.
Whatever the case, your antenna should reflect your needs and desires. If your antenna isn’t performing at the rate you’d prefer, it’s time to invest in new antenna installation. Make sure your viewing experience is optimal!
Turn to the Pros For Antenna Installation and Repairs
We hope that we’ve helped you learn what signs to look for when taking care of your antenna. Don’t forget that when you’re in need of antenna repairs, the professionals are also here to help!
Looking for more ways that you can stay on top of your home maintenance? We have both DIY guides and professional recommendations galore. Take a look at our real estate and household section to get inspired.