How to Deal With Snow and Ice on a Satellite TV Dish Antenna

It snows in most places in North America during winter, and continuous snowfall converts lower layers of snow into ice. This can be a problem for satellite TV users. Accumulation of snow and ice on the satellite TV dish antenna is one of several causes of poor signal strength. Subsequently, it is important to ensure that the antenna is not covered with snow or ice. These steps can help you deal with this situation.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check the snow buildup on your dish antenna soon after the snowfall stops.

2. Using a cloth or a brush, remove the snow gently from the antenna without disturbing its position.

3. Buy a good dish antenna cover to protect it from snow.

4. Avoid mounting the satellite TV dish on the roof if you live in areas prone to heavy snowfall. Instead, set the dish antenna up somewhere in your yard.

5. Check out the electrically heated satellite TV dish antennas. These antennas are especially useful for regions that expect heavy snowfall. They protect against snow and ice accumulation.

Tips & Warnings

• You may also plan to purchase a flat dish antenna. Snow cannot accumulate on flat surfaces. However, many flat models do not have a Low Noise Block amplifier (LNB). Look for flat antennas with a built-in LNB.