Aerial and Satellite Replacements

For how long will Britain still be using TV aerials?

With the rise of streaming services, many have wondered if television aerials are still necessary in the UK. In short, the answer is yes. While streaming services are popular, they don't completely eliminate the need for traditional television broadcasts. In fact, according to an Ofcom communications report from recent years, over 80% of people in the UK access television through digital terrestrial television (DTT) services. This means that despite the changes in technology, there will be a need for TV aerials in the UK for the foreseeable future.

Of course, it's likely that there will be some changes in how the nation accesses its television content. More people are turning to streaming services, and as a result, there are a few new technologies such as Freeview Plus and YouView that allow viewers to access streaming services through their televisions. For now, though, television aerials remain essential for households to access the major free-to-air broadcast channels like BBC, ITV, and Channel 4.

Is it worth getting a new TV aerial?

The answer to this question depends on your current setup. If you already have an aerial, it may just need to be adjusted or possibly replaced if it has become damaged or faulty. If this is the case, then it would be worthwhile to get a new aerial as soon as possible in order to enjoy the best picture quality and reception. 

If you are moving to a new home, or the existing aerial has not been properly installed, then it would be advisable to have a professional survey and installation done to ensure that the best possible signal is provided. It is also recommended to check with local suppliers before purchasing an aerial to make sure that the correct one is chosen for the area.

Can I replace my satellite dish?

If you are looking to upgrade or replace an existing satellite dish, then the good news is that it is possible to do so. Depending on the existing system, this may involve erecting a new dish and running new cables. It is important to remember that the installation of any equipment can be a hazardous job, especially when the existing dish is already installed at a certain height. Therefore it is best to call in professional engineers to perform the task correctly and safely. Experts are those fully qualified in the field, who will be vastly experienced in carrying out such installations jobs that are often at great heights, with all the correct safety equipment. 

How do I install a new satellite dish?

The installation of a new satellite dish will depend on the existing equipment and the requirements of the household. If the existing dish is in a suitable location (such as on the roof) and is in good condition, then it may only require a few minor adjustments to make sure it is pointing in the correct direction. But if the dish needs to be re-positioned, then professional help is advisable.

If a completely new satellite dish must be installed, then the existing cable needs to be checked for damage or wear before a new dish is selected. The dish then needs to be securely mounted to the side of the house or on the roof and connected to the existing cable. Additional coaxial cable may also be required if the dish is to be placed in a different area from the existing one.

How often should you replace the TV aerial?

Replacing an aerial is not something that needs to be done very often. Typically, a well-installed and maintained aerial should last 10-15 years before it needs to be replaced. However, this time frame can be shorter depending on weather conditions and other factors such as age and electrical surges. Therefore, it may be worth checking the condition of an aerial every few years to make sure it is functioning well. 

In addition, it is important to remember that modern digital televisions require a stronger signal than older TVs, and therefore an old aerial may not be able to cope with the demands of a digital signal. Therefore, in some cases, it may be necessary to replace an older aerial with a newer one in order to improve the quality of your television viewing experience.