Satellite TV Installation

One of the biggest concerns that people have regarding whether or not to buy a satellite TV revolves around the issue of satellite TV installation. Satellite TV installation may seem daunting, particularly since the satellite technology that it utilizes differentiates it from most of the electronic equipment found in our homes. However, satellite TV installation is quiet simple and for the most part provided as a service by satellite companies, like Direct TV.

Package Deal
With the explosion of the satellite TV industry, many satellite TV providers offer packages with their subscription services to entice interested consumers in purchasing their services. In order to receive their subscription services, these satellite TV providers package the hardware required to receive satellite TV service for a tiny price. As satellite TV companies make the bulk of their profit from their monthly subscription charge, the loss in offering the equipment and services for a low price is negligible.

As a result, most satellite TV installation will be provided as part of the initial offer in signing up with a satellite TV provider. Usually this is through a local technician that will provide the following services:

• Fit the dish to your building to ensure that it is aimed directly at a broadcasting satellite
• Set up the receiver
• Provide a brief tutorial so that you will learn about how to use your satellite system

However, in some areas of the country, satellite providers do not provide satellite TV installation as part of their packages. In these instances, it is recommended that you hire a local technician that specializes in satellite TV installation.

Hiring a Pro
Although installing a satellite TV is not a difficult task, it is highly recommended that you use the services of a professional technician to perform this job. This is because improper installation of your satellite TV equipment may result in you having to buy the satellite TV equipment again. Additionally, many warranties for the satellite TV equipment that satellite TV providers offer become invalid if the installation is performed by anybody that is not a professional technician.

However, if you want to install a satellite TV, you should know that it is a relatively simple task that will only take a few hours. Additionally, you will usually save about $200 or the fee of a professional technician by installing your own satellite TV. Be aware, though, that installing your own satellite TV may endanger the warranty placed on your satellite TV equipment.

DIY
With satellite TV installation, there are three parts of the satellite TV system that you will be using: the satellite dish, a long coax cable and the receiver that plugs into your television. To perform your own satellite TV installation, follow these steps:

1. Double check to see whether your home is ideal for satellite TV installation. Ensure that you have an unobstructed view in the direction specified by the satellite dish manual. Your satellite dish will need to be at an angle of elevation of 25 to 50 degrees to be in a direct connection line with the broadcasting satellites that are placed in the geostationary orbit in order for your satellite TV to work. A compass will be provided with your installation kit to help you locate the proper placement for your satellite dish.

2. Although most satellite dishes are found on the roof of a home, it is recommended that you attempt to choose another location. This is because roof mounted satellite dishes are vulnerable to leaks, snow and debris. It is recommended that you place your satellite dish on a tall post, the side of your home (as long as there is no aluminum siding) or another location where you will be able to easily access the satellite dish. However, in many situations, mounting a satellite dish on the roof is the only option.

3. Before mounting your satellite dish, consider how you want to route the long coax cable to your television. The optimal solution is to have the shortest distance between your satellite dish and your television.

4. After your satellite dish installation is finished, you are now ready to actually install your satellite dish. At this point, you will drill holes into a secure stud or beam on your home through the use of a power drill. These holes will need to be filled with a large amount of silicon as a way to protect them against leaks. Silicon is usually provided with your satellite TV installation kit.

5. With your installation kit, you will be provided with screws that you will use to secure the dish mount into the silicon filled holes. Your installation manual will describe the necessary dish pointing direction in which you will adjust the dish pointing direction at this point.

6. At this point, you will temporarily run a cable to a television set. This action will finish the satellite dish directional adjustments, as you will be able to detect the signal strength through a signal strength meter that is displayed on your television.

7. With your installation kit, you will be provided with a long coax cable that you will run from the satellite dish to the television satellite receiver. In order to route the cable through walls and ceilings, it is recommended that you use a cable snake. It is a good idea to use any available space that you have in your attic or basement for easy cable routing.

8. Attach the cable to the satellite receiver and you’re done. Reward yourself by watching some fine programs provided with your new satellite TV!

Where You Live
Satellite TV installation is much easier for individuals who live in a house. For those individuals who reside in an apartment, it is still possible to obtain satellite TV service. However, satellite TV installation is trickier as you will need to consult with your Home Owner’s Association for advice and approval.

For the most part, fitting a satellite dish to the building is acceptable as long as it is within your wall space. However, there may be times when you will run into conflicts with your landlord or another tenant. At this point, you may want to seek advice from the Satellite Broadcasting and Communications Associations or from the Federal Communications Commission.

Another solution that apartment dwellers may want to explore is to install a satellite dish within their apartment. Individuals that have a window with a clear view of the southern sky will be able to pick up the signals transmitted from broadcasting satellites. However, many types of glass will disrupt this signal and many situations will make this alternative impractical.

Following its installation and the proper directional aiming, your satellite TV should never have to be physically adjusted.

Need help installing your satellite TV? Visit our satellite forum to find out how other people installed theirs.