Free TV Repair Tips
By Jason Prader
A malfunctioning television can be a source of irritation, causing you to miss favorite programs or endure a fuzzy display. You can do some basic repair work yourself, but only if the issue is a general one affecting a lot of televisions. More complex repairs should only be done by professionals. Problems specific to your television type (LCD, plasma or CRT) or brand also are likely to require the attention of a specialist.
Cable Repair Tips
The cables that connect your TV to the antenna provided by a cable TV provider are known as coaxial cables. Coaxical cables are usually made from copper and have a long wire, with a circular metal tip that screws into the back of your television. Poor picture or sound quality is usually caused by a problem with the coaxial cable. These can typically be repared by twisting the cable tip until picture quality returns. In some cases, the metal fitting may cease to function and will need to be replaced. If the fitting is not the problem, you may need to purchase a new cable. If a new cable fails to remedy the problem, the fitting on the TV itself may need replacing or repairing. This should only be performed by a qualified repairman.
Magnetization Repair Tips
If you are getting a bad picture on every channel and your connections are not at fault, your television's magnetizing function could be the problem. Most sets have a built-in de-magnetizing function that ensures the set is free of magnetic interference when it is turned on. Remove any devices such as stereo speakers or motors that could magnetically interact your television. If this does not help, the demagnetizing function in the television may be at fault. According to the Yext TV Repair website, you can demagnetize your set by purchasing a degaussing coil. These are available from most electronics stores. Move the coil in tiny circles of around three inches away from the screen. The process should produce a fluctuating pattern that resembles a darkened rainbow. Keep moving the coil in broader circles until it has gone over the whole screen. The television set should now be demagnetized.
Antennae Repair Tips
A low-quality picture on your television might be caused by issues with your antenna. This is a problem more common in older CRT models, as plasma and LCD sets don't require external antennas. Replacement antennas can usually be bought from electrical shops, depending on the age and popularity of your particular model. Use a small screwdriver to take out the screws that affix the antenna to the television. Affix the new antenna by screwing into the television. Make sure the antenna is rigid enough to avoid falling off, but also loose enough to allow some movement.
Writer Bio
Jason Prader began writing professionally in 2009, and is a freelance writer with a sound academic background and experience in writing articles for online magazine Shavemagazine.com. He is highly adept at constructing academic essays and producing articles on an array of subject matter. He holds a master's degree in 20th century literature from the University of Sussex.