How to Troubleshoot Home Theater Subwoofers

You're watching a great action movie, but you can't feel the bass of those explosions? It's time to troubleshoot your home theater subwoofers. If you are having trouble, and you know it is the subwoofer, there are a few things you can try before you need to take it in to a professional for repair.

Things You'll Need

• home theater system
• owner's manual
• subwoofer

Instructions

1. Make sure your subwoofer is plugged in, and all wires are connected properly.

2. Check your owner's manual to see what it says about the problem. Most manuals come with an extensive troubleshooting section.

3. Move your subwoofer away from your TV or monitor. There could be magnetic or power interference between the two units.

4. Take off the cover of the subwoofer and locate the fuse. If the fuse is broken, replace it.

5. Check the speaker. If you have a crack in the foam ring, known as the surround, it will create a distorted buzz. To fix this, tape the crack with electrical tape or cover the crack with a rubber epoxy.

6. Put a soft blanket or piece of carpet beneath the subwoofer if it is shaking or has a lot reverberation. This will absorb the rattling.

7. Plug the subwoofer into its own power source. If any large appliances are plugged into the same outlet or breaker, the power interference could cause buzzing sounds.

8. Call the manufacturer to see if they can help you over the phone.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for simple, obvious problems first. Make sure the subwoofer is plugged in and no wires are loose.

• Review your owner's manual or call the company if you have never worked on a speaker before.

• Have the subwoofer repaired by an audio equipment service technician if all else fails.

• Do not work on a subwoofer that is plugged into an outlet or other component. You could get electrocuted.