How to Troubleshoot a TV

Missing your favorite program and need to fix your TV pronto? There's nothing worse than sitting down to watch something and having your TV screen show nothing but static. Follow these steps to learn how to troubleshoot your TV so you can determine what's wrong with it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Owner's manual

1. Find your TV’s owner’s manual. Most manuals come with a troubleshooting guide as well as directions for setting up and programming it. When you purchase your TV, you should put the service manuals in a safe place so you have them available when you need them.
2. Check the manufacturer’s website if you don’t have an owner’s manual. You can download a manual from the website and you may be able to find more tips and find information for customer service. Some of the more popular TV manufacturers are Sony, Philips, Magnavox and RCA. You can also visit UsersManualGuide.com to find manuals for a variety of different TV's (see Resources below).
3. See if the power cord is plugged into an outlet and the power button is on. Even the best TV's need electricity. Check another electronic device in the outlet to make sure the outlet isn't faulty.
4. Change the channel if the picture is out or coming in fuzzy. If the other channels are fine, then it’s probably the station that has a problem--not your TV.
5. Inspect the signal source. If you’re using a cable connection, make sure the coaxial cable is connected to the Input In connector on the TV and to the cable outlet on the wall. If you’re using an antenna, make sure the antenna is connected to the Input In connector on the TV and the antenna wires aren't damaged.
6. Adjust the color, contrast and brightness by using the TV’s menu option. If the signal is discolored, too dark or too bright, this may remedy the problem.
7. Check the batteries in your remote control. If you have problems changing the channel on the TV, the remote batteries may need to be replaced.

Tips & Warnings

• Be patient. It’s usually less frustrating to try every troubleshooting tip than to deal with a corporate help hotline or to pay a TV repairman.
• Call a repairman if you have no knowledge of TV repair, or if the TV must be repaired. Opening the TV case could negate the warranty and cause more damage to the TV.
• Be cautious when moving your TV to access connections in the back. TV's are heavy and can cause serious injury if they fall on you.
• Watch for damaged wires. If a wire’s interior is exposed, you could be shocked.

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