Don’t Miss Getting all Your Channels
While parts of the country have slowly begun opening back up, many Americans are still quarantining at home and continuing to consume their favorite TV programs and their local news. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought changes to almost every aspect of our lives, and that includes how we watch TV.
It’s no wonder that people are exploring all that modern TV and technology have to offer, and that includes about a third of TV viewers using an antenna to access free, over-the-air TV. Whether you’ve been an antenna user for years or are just exploring this option, here are the basic steps to ensure your antenna setup is delivering all the free channels in your area.
- Step #1: Make a #PlanToRescan.
In order for your antenna to work properly, you must plan to rescan your TV after any stations in your community change frequencies. More than 1,000 TV stations across the country are changing frequencies to make room for expanded wireless services, and when that happens, you must rescan your TV to get a clear signal and access the available channels within the viewing area. All of your channel numbers will remain the same after the rescan, and you might even find new channels that you didn’t have before.
Rescanning your TV is free and relatively simple using your remote control. Make sure you perform the TV rescan AFTER your local TV stations change frequencies. You can find out if and when stations are transitioning by clicking here. Make sure to also sign up for text and email alerts to know when you have to rescan your TV, and remember that you may need to rescan several times since multiple stations in the same community may change at different times.
- Step #2: Follow the basics for rescanning your TV.
When you’re ready to rescan, be sure your TV is set to the “antenna” input. Select Scan or Autotune from your TV or converter box control menu to start the scanning process. Your TV will do the rest. This process usually takes a few minutes to complete. Check all antenna cable connections to ensure they are tight and in good condition. Screw- or twist-type “F” connectors are the best option for all connections. - Step #3: Get up and get moving.
Sometimes it helps to shift the direction your antenna is pointing and even relocate it outside or to a higher place in your home. A station’s signal might have been marginal to begin with and any change in frequency may be enough to impact reception. In this case, move your antenna closer to a window that faces in the direction of the station’s transmitter site, and avoid placing it behind any furniture or walls. If possible, set up your antenna outdoors or in an attic. Make sure you perform the TV rescan again if you move your antenna. For all antennas, especially outdoor antennas, make sure that the elements are not bent, broken or touching.
If you’ve done the basics and continue to have reception issues, your local TV stations are a great resource that can help you troubleshoot any potential problems.
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