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Satellite TV Installation Guide
After you order your satellite TV system, the next step is to install it.
Here you have the option of installing your satellite TV system yourself, or letting a professional do it for you.
Professional Satellite TV Installation
Professional satellite TV installation will save you hours of work, plus the job will be done right. But installation fees from some satellite TV dealers can cost $150 to $250 or more.
However, if you order a free satellite TV system from one of the dealers listed below, your installation is free.
After you order your satellite TV system, the dealer will call you to schedule an installation time that's convenient for you. Depending on where you live, this may be anywhere from one to five days.
In addition to installing and wiring your satellite TV system, your installer will also show you how to operate your system and answer any questions you may have.
Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Satellite TV Installation
Here's how to install a satellite TV system yourself:
First, mount your satellite dish on a south-facing wall, or on your roof, within 100 cable-feet of your TV. Choose a location where there are no obstructions such as trees or tall buildings.
If you live in an apartment or condo complex and aren't allowed to mount your dish on a wall or roof, you can mount it inside, or on your balcony, using a stand which can be ordered from your satellite TV dealer.
After installing your satellite TV dish, run the cable through your house walls to the rooms where you have your TVs, then ground your dish, and caulk all the holes you made in your walls.
Hooking up your satellite TV consists of connecting the cable to your satellite TV receivers, then connecting your receiver to the nearest telephone jack. Follow the wiring diagram that came with your satellite TV equipment package.
Now go to your satellite TV provider's signal strength menu on your satellite TV receiver to get the correct azimuth (direction), elevation (angle), and skew (dish rotation) for your location so your can correctly aim your dish.
Using the signal strength menu, a compass, and a friend to monitor the signal strength menu on your TV, point your dish in the right direction and move it slowly up and down until you obtain maximum signal strength. Be patient as this may take awhile.
Finally, you'll need to contact your satellite TV provider to activate your system.
Note: If you're going to install your satellite TV system yourself, we recommend purchasing a satellite TV installation kit from your dealer which comes with all the necessary hardware plus an installation guide.
If your property is governed by a home owner's association, check their restrictions before you install a satellite TV system. If you're a renter, get written permission from your landlord.
Bottom Line
Unless you're handy with a variety of tools and enjoy tinkering with electronic equipment, professional satellite TV installation is the recommended way to go.
Why do it yourself when you can do it for free?
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