How to install a TV antenna?

We often hear the same questions: why am I not getting a good signal? What should I do to improve the quality? What are the pros and cons of installing different antennas? and so forth….. 

This blog will give you all the information you need to answer these questions. Whether you are looking for help with indoor digital antenna installation, loft installation or even outdoor TV antenna installation, we have it covered. We can even help you get Digital TV at no extra cost. By the time you finish reading this blog, you will be a master in the art of tv antenna installation. 

Location, location, location….   

There are three types of TV antennas you can choose from: indoor antennas, outdoor antennas and loft antennas. All have different methods of installation with pros and cons. We recommend you choose a TV antenna depending on your location. Opt for an indoor antenna if you live close to a transmitter in a good signal area. A loft or outdoor TV antenna works better in weaker signal areas.

Quick how-to guide

If time is of the essence, then watch our 60 second film about how to install a TV antennas. This how-to guide shows you the easiest and most effective way to install your antenna including how to perform a channel scan (also explained later in this blog).

Installing an indoor TV antenna

This is the easiest type of tv antenna installation as you only have to plug in the coax cable from the tv to the antenna and stand it next to the TV. If the picture still appears fuzzy you can try moving the antenna next to a window. It is best to keep a direct line to the transmitter, so don’t let the antenna get obstructed by (metal) objects. If the picture is still not perfect, then try to place it as high as possible to get a better signal and move the position from left to right until you have a clear picture. Always remember to rerun the channel scan everytime you reposition your TV antenna.

Pros and cons of installing an indoor antenna:

Pros:

• Extremely easy to set up just connect the coax cable to the TV, followed by a simple channelscan and bobs your uncle!
• Minimal cost and easily portable if moving house

Cons :

• Does not work in weak signal areas
• Concrete walls can interfere with reception

Installing an outdoor TV antenna

Outdoor TV antenna installation is the most work. Ensure you work carefully adhering to safety rules when installing an antenna on the roof or side of your house. Follow the instructions to the letter. To help find the right position for the TV antenna, take a peep at what your neighbours have done – all antennas should be facing towards the transmitter. Always check the picture is clear before attaching it. If in doubt, always get a professional to carry out the task for you – worth every penny to avoid the hassle!

Pros and cons of installing an outdoor digital tv antenna:

Pros

• Stronger and better quality TV signal
• Works well in areas far away from a transmitter

Cons

• Installation is much more work than a loft or indoor antenna, as you need to attach the outdoor antenna to your outside wall or chimney
• Need to connect the antenna to the TV using a long coax cable and drill holes in wall
• More expensive

Installing a loft TV antenna 

Position the TV antenna inside the roof of your attic following the instructions in the manual. Before attaching the aerial, consider where you want to position it. After all you don’t want to bang your head every time you enter the loft! Try different positions until you get the best TV reception. A handy tip is buying a model which works both as a loft and outdoor TV antenna – if it doesn’t work in the loft then you can use it outside.

Pros and cons of loft antenna installation:

Pros

• Easier to install than outdoor antennas – no need to climb on the roof!
• Stays better intact than an outside antennas as it is not exposed to the elements

Cons

• Signal tends to be weaker than an outside antenna due to the roof between it
• Does not work if you have a metal roof

Finalise your Antenna installation in 3 easy steps

After you have the TV antenna in the right position you have to complete a channelscan to finalise the installation. In just 3 simple steps, you can be watching your favourite TV programme with a clear picture. Here’s how:

Step 1:

Press ‘MENU’ on your remote control (this could be your tv remote control or your STB (setup box) remote control - it’s the one that changes the channels).

Step 2:

Select ‘SET UP’ on the menu. If you can’t find this option, please check your owners manual for specific instructions on how to rescan.

Step 3:

Choose ‘ANTENNA’, then ‘CHANNEL SCAN’ or ‘AUTO TUNE’. Your TV will automatically rescan the available signals which may take a few minutes. Once completed, all your channels will be tuned-in. Don’t forget to rerun the channelscan again if you move your TV aerial.

Add an aerial amplifier

We recommend that you add an aerial amplifier or signal booster to your TV antenna system if you are experiencing signal loss due to long coaxial cabling or the splitting of signals to multiple TVs. Choose a TV antenna with built-in amplifiers or a stand-alone amplifier to work with your outdoor antenna. But don’t use one for the sake of it  – if used incorrectly it not only boosts the signal but it also amplifies electric noise and interference. If used correctly, it can really enhance your TV experience.

Hey presto! Happy TV watching!