Aerial problems can result in disruption to your TV viewing, or in some cases complete loss of programmes. Find out how to get your analogue TV aerial back on track.
Poor reception
Problems with the picture or sound on your TV usually mean that the signal being received is too weak. This could be down to a number of factors including the aerial being broken or out of alignment, or corroded connections.
First of all, check whether there might be a simple cause for your reception problems.
- Are your neighbours having the same problem? If so then your local transmitter may be undergoing maintenance.
- Use the BBC's reception problems tool to check whether your local transmitter is affected by maintenance work.
- Is the aerial lead securely plugged in to your set-top box or TV?
- Have you checked the other connections? Your aerial may be broken or out of alignment.
If there is still no improvement then you'll need to have the aerial and its connections checked for faults by a professional aerial engineer.
Ghosting
Try adjusting the angle of your aerial so that it's not pointing directly at the transmitter. If this doesn't solve the problem then you may need to buy a more powerful aerial that can focus more on the main signal.
Other reception problems
Other problems are usually due to interference caused by electrical equipment, radio communications or the weather.
Communal aerials
If you live in a block of flats then you'll probably share an aerial. Check whether other residents are having reception issues – if they are then the aerial may be faulty and you'll need to get in touch with your landlord or property manager.
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