How to install a TV aerial?

We often hear the same questions: why am I not getting a good signal? What should I do to improve the quality? What are the pros and cons of installing different aerials? and so forth…..

This blog will give you all the information you need to answer these questions. Whether you are looking for help with indoor digital aerial installation, loft installation or even outside TV aerial installation, we have it covered. We can even help you get Freeview at no extra cost - freeview aerial installation is just a matter of installing a digital aerial. By the time you finish reading this blog , you will be a master in the art of tv aerial installation.

Location, location, location….  

There are three types of TV aerials you can choose from: indoor aerials, loft aerials and outdoor aerials. All have different methods of installation with pros and cons. We recommend you choose a TV aerial depending on your location. Opt for an indoor aerial if you live close to a transmitter in a good signal area. A loft or outdoor TV aerial works better in weaker signal areas.

Quick how-to guide

If time is of the essence, then watch our 60 second film about how to install a TV aerial. This how-to guide shows you the easiest and most effective way to install your aerial including how to perform a channel scan (also explained later in this blog).

Installing an indoor TV aerial

This is the easiest type of tv aerial installation as you only have to plug in the coax cable from the tv to the aerial and stand the aerial next to the TV. If the picture still appears fuzzy you can try moving the aerial next to a window. It is best to keep a direct line to the transmitter, so don’t let the aerial get obstructed by metal objects. If the picture is still not perfect, then try to place it as high as possible to get a better signal and rotate the aerial until you have a clear picture. Always remember to rerun the channel scan everytime you reposition your TV aerial.

Pros:

• Extremely easy to set up just connect the coax cable to the TV, followed by a simple channelscan and bobs your uncle!
• Minimal cost and easily portable if moving house

Cons:

• Does not work in weak signal areas
• Concrete walls can interfere with reception

Installing an outdoor TV aerial

Outdoor tv aerial installation is the most work. Ensure you work carefully adhering to safety rules when installing an aerial on the roof or side of your house. Follow the instructions to the letter. To help find the right position for the TV aerial, take a peep at what your neighbours have done – all aerials should be facing towards the transmitter. Always check the picture is clear before attaching it. If in doubt, always get a professional to carry out the task for you – worth every penny to avoid the hassle!

Pros:

• Stronger and better quality TV signal
• Works well in areas far away from a transmitter

Cons:

• Installation is much more work than a loft or indoor aerial, as you need to attach the outdoor aerial to your outside wall or chimney
• Need to connect the aerial to the TV using a long coax cable and drill holes in wall
• More expensive

Installing a loft TV aerial

Position the TV aerial inside the roof of your attic following the instructions in the manual. Before attaching the aerial, consider where you want to position it. After all you don’t want to bang your head every time you enter the loft! Try different positions until you get the best TV reception. A handy tip is buying a model which works both as a loft and outdoor TV aerial – if it doesn’t work in the loft then you can use it outside.

Pros:

• Easier to install than outdoor aerials – no need to climb on the roof!
• Stays better intact than an outside aerial as it is not exposed to the elements

Cons:

• Signal tends to be weaker than an outside aerial due to the roof between it
• Does not work if you have a metal roof

After you have the TV aerial in the right position you have to complete a channelscan to finalise the installation. In just 3 simple steps, you can be watching your favourite TV programme with a clear picture. Here’s how:

Step 1:

Press ‘MENU’ on your remote control (this could be your tv remote control or your STB (setup box) remote control - it’s the one that changes the channels).

Step 2:

Select ‘SET UP’ on the menu. If you can’t find this option, please check your owners manual for specific instructions on how to rescan.

Step 3:

Choose ‘ANTENNA’, then ‘CHANNEL SCAN’ or ‘AUTO TUNE’. Your TV will automatically rescan the available signals which may take a few minutes. Once completed, all your channels will be tuned-in. Don’t forget to rerun the channelscan again if you move your TV aerial.

Add an aerial amplifier

We recommend that you add an aerial amplifier or signal booster to your TV aerial system if you are experiencing signal loss due to long coaxial cabling or the splitting of signals to multiple TVs. Choose a TV aerial with built-in amplifiers or a stand-alone amplifier to work with your outdoor aerial. But don’t use one for the sake of it  – if used incorrectly it not only boosts the signal but it also amplifies electric noise and interference. Also there is a risk of overamplification with no image at all as a result. If used correctly, it can really enhance your TV experience.

Hey presto! Happy TV watching!