A TV aerial that is installed on the rooftop has to face various harsh climatic conditions. Sometimes it has to tolerate the rain or snow, and in the summers, it has to endure scorching heat coming from the sun. Such situations make us think about how long our TV aerial will be able to withstand this stress? Most of us are unaware of how often we should replace our TV aerials. So, we are going to discuss it only in this post.
When the antenna is installed by an expert and is made up of excellent quality material, the chances are high that it can stay for up to one or even two decades. However, if it is maintained well and doesn’t have to face rough atmospheric conditions, then it can even last for about 30 years, which is an impressive period. But if it is not deployed by a professional, its lifespan automatically decreases.
Various factors reduce the lifespan of your TV antennas. It becomes essential for you to understand these points to avoid its replacement too soon. Let us have a look at these factors one by one:
Antenna installed at greater heights
A few people might have their homes encircled by trees, so they need to ensure that the trees don’t impact the antenna’s signal. Nonetheless, introducing an aerial excessively high without regarding a bunch of rules might decrease its life expectancy.
An elevated pole ought to be utilized for aerials that are intended to go higher than expected. Ensure the antenna pole is vast and robust enough to withstand its heaviness in any climate conditions. If you don’t know how to install it appropriately, then learn more.
Low quality or cheap antenna
If you have bought an aerial of low quality and looks cheap, you cannot expect it to sustain for longer. Sometimes people try to make DIY aerials but let us tell you that they do not have a life expectancy anywhere near 5-10 years. Therefore, it is always advisable to take some professional help in that case. Keep in mind that you should pick the aerial capable of tolerating heavy winds, rain or whatever comes in its way.
Cables not connected properly
Sometimes you don’t receive a signal from your antenna because the cords or the cables are not joined properly. It is essential to take care of the equipment connected with the aerial to ensure its long lifespan. After prolonged usage, the cords start getting damaged, and you should consider replacing them. Otherwise, you will face a lot of trouble in the reception of signals.
Over tightening of the V or U bolts
Another common factor that decreases the lifespan of aerials is the over-tightening of the V or U bolts. Many people over-tighten the U or V bolt to ensure that the antenna gets adequately fixed and does not move anywhere from its place. The bolt can get weak over time, and it can also create bends. To avoid this from happening, consider using a tool like a ratchet spanner.
Lightning strike/ thunderstorm
On uncommon events, with almost thunderstorms, quite possibly this can demolish your antenna and cause it not to work. Suppose an extremely high voltage has gone through your antenna. In that case, it can obliterate every one of the parts, which means the only solution that will be left is to introduce a new aerial, commonly another coax link as well.
If your antenna has had an immediate lightning strike, we are sure that the antenna itself will not be worth fretting over as the lightning can blow a ton of other electrical things as well. In both of these cases, there is no way to stop this, and you ought not to believe this to be covered by an assurance, regardless of whether it has been recently installed or not.
Out of date technology
If you have been using the same antenna for quite a while now, then it’s time for you to realize that its technology has gotten outdated. This might clarify why you can’t partake in all the accessible TV administrations in your space. Remember that frequencies can change on schedule, so playing out a TV tune on occasion will guarantee that you have the correct frequencies for the communicated TV services.
Signs That Show You Need an Aerial Replacement
Examining the aerial
Many signs can alert you that you need to replace your aerial and one of the most common alerts comes by examining it. If you are facing common signal transmission issues, then you can consider changing its direction. However, if you find any damages or broken parts due to harsh weather, then it’s time for you to get a new aerial.
Checking the inputs on your TV
Commonly, individuals don’t mind enough actually to take a look at the connections of their TV. You want to know whether your TV’s aerial wire works or regardless of whether you want to supplant them.
It might be ideal if you have another TV that you can use to test; take a stab at stopping it to the extra TV to check whether it can get any signals. If the additional TV ends up getting a signal, your TV tuner is the issue and not the aerial.
Checking the cords
If the cables aren’t associated as expected or do not send the signals, it will trouble the reception. So before you book an antenna fix, do a fast check of your TV strings and links. Are altogether the lines secure? Is it true that they are as yet connected? Check any strings you can see to ensure they haven’t decayed or been bitten through.
Ensure they don’t seem exhausted, bowed, bent, or eroded – as this is a sure sign they will not have the option to send an unmistakable signal. If there is some issue with the cord connection, then experts will suggest you get it repaired.
To Sum Up
The life expectancy of an aerial is about 10-20 years, but it depends upon various factors. If the quality is good and installed well, it can also stay with you for a more extended period than this. Study the factors mentioned above that can lower the lifespan of your antenna and try to work on it.