If your TV has been losing reception, you’re not alone. As per the Consumer Technology Association, more than 40% of consumers have encountered problems with their TV aerials in the past year. Poor TV installation can result in poor picture quality, patchy reception, and interference with television signals.
Many people who believe the problem has something to do with their signal strength will find the problem solved with a simple change in location. Generally, though, poor signals are caused by faulty TV aerials or broken antennas. There are a number of reasons why this might be happening. A TV malfunction could also be the cause.
The Workings Of A TV Aerial
In order to transmit information, a TV antenna or aerial uses electromagnetic waves. A wire produces electromagnetic waves when electricity flows through it. A certain frequency is the resonant frequency of the antenna that is responsible for moving these waves. An FM antenna transmits information via resonant frequencies. Resonant frequencies determine what type of information can be transmitted through a TV.
Since the TV transmits information at a specific frequency, changing that frequency will cause it to malfunction. It is possible for a raindrop or any other object falling on an antenna to affect its electrical response and reduce its performance. There are times when the signal does not reach your TV through the aerial. This is known as ‘tuning’ issues, which can be caused by poor weather conditions, interference from other televisions in the neighborhood, or even a malfunctioning TV. You may not be able to get your aerial to work properly for the following reasons:
TV Connection Problems
Over the course of their lifetime, TVs can suffer from wear and tear just like any other home appliance. Although a TV and a good signal seem to work properly, an antenna can still malfunction.
It is possible for a TV to receive a poor signal for a variety of reasons. Damaged aerial cables or corrosion in the connection between the aerial and television cause signal loss when the aerial cable is damaged or corroded by water.
For this reason, it’s essential that you have read and understood your television’s user manual so that you know what tools you will need. You can always find your user manual online using manualsnet.com, if you cannot find it at the moment. You can find useful information about your product in online manuals for free. It is also possible to seek expert assistance if you are not confident enough.
Incompatible digital decoders
Check the digital TV guide to determine whether your channels are analog or digital. Newer models may have both digital and analog outputs, while older models may only have analog. You should find out which type of signal your TV sends on the user guide that came with it. To find out if your service provider offers analog channels, you can contact them.
Antenna that is faulty
If your antenna has become damaged or faulty, it may need to be replaced. The aerial is made up of color-coded wires, and if they become damaged, the signal can be affected. As soon as possible, contact your service provider so that it can be replaced or repaired if this is the case.
An old aerial view
As your aerial ages or is overused, it may lose its effectiveness. It is generally recommended that you replace an aerial every 10 years. Depending on how old the aerial is, it may not function properly.
Weather conditions are poor
Signal quality may be affected by weather conditions. When it is snowing or raining heavily, the signal may be hard to pick up and reception may be troublesome. This is especially true if you live in an area that has a lot of rain or snow throughout the year, or if heavy winds or rain damage TV aerials. Outdoor aerials need protection from the elements if they are going to be used outside.
An aerial shot that is poorly positioned
Changing the location will allow the signal to pass through fewer obstructions, such as trees and buildings. If your TV is wired into your aerial, you may need to upgrade it to pick up the digital signal if you are using an older type. You should contact your service provider for advice on whether you can do this without installing a new aerial and wiring.