In many homes, satellite dishes are used to receive television channels or an Internet connection. While they can be a great addition to any residence, satellite dishes are not immune to problems and damage over time. Find out more about some of the most common problems and repairs needed for satellite dishes as well as whether it is best to tackle the repair alone or with the help of professionals.
Weather-Related Interference or Failure
One of the most common complaints about satellite dishes is that the picture lags, disappears or becomes fuzzy in certain weather conditions. Typically, a satellite dish should only infrequently have this problem in extreme rain. In these instances, there is little that the homeowner or a professional can do but wait until the inclement weather passes. However, if strong winds are causing picture problems, then the issue may be with the stability of the satellite dish itself. In this instance, calling a professional to readjust or secure the dish in the ground or on the roof may be the best call.
Dish Obstruction
Another common problem among owners of satellite dishes in a gradual decrease in picture quality. This could happen over the course of days, or it might happen over weeks. A possible cause of this issue is that the dish itself is obstructed. This may be because of new construction next door or across the street or even bushes and hedges growing up in front of the dish. If the solution is simple, such as trimming hedges, it can be handled by the homeowner. Otherwise, calling in a professional to relocate the dish entirely may be suitable.
Audio Connectivity Issues
In some cases, a satellite dish picture comes through perfectly, but the sound does not. In these cases, the problem may be with the cables connecting the satellite dish to the television, or even with the television itself. The issue could be resolved by inserting a DVD or VHS and playing it from the television. If the sound comes through clearly, then it is the satellite connectivity rather than the television. In this case, start by unplugging and then replugging the cables into the television and checking their status all the way to the dish. If no visible reasons for the problem are found, calling a satellite repair professional is recommended.
Poor Picture Quality
If the quality of the picture is poor for one screen but clear for other screens in the home, then the problem is likely with the cable leading to the problematic television screen. However, if poor picture quality exists throughout the home, the issue might be a misaligned dish. This is especially common after strong storms when the dish is located on a pitched or flat roof. Realigning a satellite dish alone is not a job for a homeowner without experience, as it could end up making the problem worse. Instead, paying for the satellite company or a professional contractor to adjust the dish is preferred.
Debris Gathered in Dish
Another common concern is a disruption of service due to debris in the dish itself. In some cases, this can be caused by snow or rain, and melting or drying will resolve the problem in a few hours or days. Other debris might include:
- Branches
- Autumn Leaves
- Accumulated Dust or Dirt
Whatever it is, significant debris needs to be removed by a professional, as spraying it with a hose could do damage to the cables or to the alignment.
While homeowners can tackle some of the many problems commonly associated with satellite dish repair, some tasks are too big. In these cases, paying for a professional to repair the problematic dish component is best.
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