One of the most common error messages that people receive on their televisions is one that states that the receiver is searching for a satellite signal. This causes frequent panic in users because the instantaneous thought is that their satellite dish is broken! However, an error problem such as this is often followed by an easy solution, if you know what to look for. By reading this blog on the main causes of satellite error and the solutions to the issues, you can get your ‘broken satellite dish’ up and running again in no time.
1. Cabling
A faulty or loose coaxial cable between the receiver and the satellite dish can prevent signal from passing between them. The first thing you should check when you receive an error message is that all the connectors are firmly in place. Once these connections are checked you can look at the indoor visible cables and change these if a clearly visible fault is apparent. Outdoors, however is where problems with cables are most likely to occur, such as splits where rainwater has entered, or a cable has perished due to old age. Unlike indoor cables you should call in a specialist to replace outdoor cables as this is a difficult job and requires a lot of manual work, often involving climbing onto the roof itself.
2. Out of Alignment
Satellite dishes need to be kept in accurate alignment to get a signal due to the specific frequencies that they use. Whilst a satellite dish will be fixed in the correct alignment when installed, if the dish shifts over time or shifts due to an external force such as extreme wind, or a falling branch, this would cause it to stop working. To realign the dish, you should call in a specialist because it is extremely difficult to judge the placement by eye or by touch unless you are qualified and have experience doing so.
3. Weather
Large storms can cause a block of signal for almost any user in the area, so do not panic as you are probably not the only one without a signal. When the poor weather passes, so long as it did not directly harm your satellite dish or cables (e.g.: lightning, wind, falling branches) then your receiver should pick up the signal again. Only be concerned if your signal does not come back, and in this case, it is wise to do all other checks then call in a specialist.
4. Temporary obstruction
Something temporary may be blocking your satellite dish from receiving signal, for example scaffolding or a parked vehicle if the dish has been installed at a low level. You can either wait for this obstruction to move or if it happens frequently reinstall the dish in a different location. A specialist will be able to help you relocate the dish, on either a permanent or temporary basis depending on your needs.
5. Faulty receiver
Whilst the error message that may be displayed on your TV is that the receiver cannot get satellite signal, the issue itself may in fact be with the receiver and not the satellite. There is a chance that your satellite dish is working perfectly fine. You can check this by disconnecting the satellite receiver and plugging in a spare/new one or by checking the signal on other TV sets in the home. If you are unable to determine the problem, then again it is time to call in a specialist.
6. Broken dish
Your dish may actually be broken, and this would be what is disrupting the signal between it and your receiver. If a satellite dish is misshapen or rusted, then the satellite signals may bounce off the dish at incorrect angles. So, if the dish has been damaged then you need to replace it with a new one. A specialist can advise you on the best new dish for your home.
If you are looking for a dependable satellite specialist, Megaray Aerial and Satellite Services can take care of your needs. No matter what the reason is behind your apparent ‘broken’ satellite signal we can solve the problem efficiently. Visit https://www.megarayaerial.co.ukfor more information.
