How to Troubleshoot a Satellite That Is Losing Channels

When using a satellite dish to obtain your television programming, you may occasionally experience channel outings. Depending on the circumstances, you may just have specific stations not appearing on the TV, or all of your channels are having trouble displaying on your television. Troubleshoot the problem to find the cause; however, you may need help from a satellite technician.

Instructions

1. Check the weather. Excessively bad weather can cause issues with the satellite dish, especially hard rain, wind or snow. The weather blocks the signal from the satellites, and your receiver can't obtain the programming. When this occurs, there isn't much you can do except wait it out.

2. Inspect your satellite dish. If snow covers the satellite dish it can block the satellite signals. Clear off the snow with a broom or by hand.

3. Power down the satellite receiver, then turn it back on. Allow the receiver to scan for signal. Sometimes the dish needs to update itself and turning the device off and on allows it to do so.

4. Call your satellite television provider if you are having trouble receiving the same stations several days in a row. You may either need a firmware update for your receiver or the satellite dish is misaligned (this may occur during excessive wind). Set up a day and a time frame for when the satellite technician can stop by and adjust the dish and update the firmware.

Resources

• BWDow: Troubleshooting Dish Network receiver