You’re excited to watch your favorite TV shows, so you decide to buy an antenna to get channels. But after installing it, you get little to no channels. There are several reasons why this ensues, and there effective fixes to resolve this.
If you’re struggling with a TV antenna that’s not picking up any channels, our technicians have outlined all the probable causes with effective and simple solutions. So make sure to read until the very end.
Why Is My TV Antenna Not Finding Any Channels?
#1: There are Splitters Blocking the Signal
If you have multiple connections to an antenna cable, it might be weakening the digital signals. You may need to disconnect the splitter and connect the cable directly to your converter box or TV.
#2: Changed Station or Channel Frequency
Another reason is a changed channel frequency or station. Older televisions must be tuned to the station’s RF channel to receive the signal. Also, some TV stations change their locations and their transmitter power.
#3: The TV Antenna is Not Placed High Enough
If there are tall buildings, trees, or other obstructions between you and the broadcast towers, your signal might be interrupted, and you might not be able to see the stations you want to watch.
#4: The TV Antenna is Not in the Right Location
If you have an indoor antenna, you probably placed it in the wrong position; that’s why you’re getting poor reception. We suggest placing your antenna on skylights or outside-facing walls to get better reception.
#5: The Digital Tuner May Be Defective or Broken
Try using your antenna with another digital tuner to see if it’s working correctly.
#6: The Antenna's Amplifier May Be Broken
A faulty amplifier can cause glitchy reception. You can try disconnecting your amplifier and antenna, then connect the antenna to your screen directly.
#7: Broken or Loose Cables
If you have a loose or broken cable, you’re more likely to get a poor or intermittent signal. Make sure your antennas are secured and in good condition.
#8: Lower Signal From Station Towers
Sometimes, a station might experience a reduction in power while it upgrades its equipment. You may see it when the “Special Temporary Authority” appears in red [1].
Top Fixes to a TV Antenna That's Unable to Find Channels
Fix #1: Check if the Antenna is Plugged in Correctly and Securely
Before using an antenna, ensure it’s firmly and securely attached to your television. You should then plug it into the “Antenna Input” jack. If you still can’t find any frequencies, move on to the next fix.
Fix #2: Ensure That Your Antenna is Aligned Correctly
If you have an analog antenna facing the wrong direction, you might not be able to find any frequencies. This issue can occur in certain areas, such as those with excessive signal interference.
We suggest knowing where the broadcast point is. After that, follow the steps below:
- Locate the bearings of the broadcasting tower.
- Use a compass (can use mobile compass apps) to find the bearings.
- As for help from a family member or friend to operate the search while you are turning the antenna. Stop turning the antenna when you find the channels.
Fix #3: Try Searching for Channels Manually
You can try a manual scan. It can also restore the list of television frequencies that were previously available.
You’ll need the digital transmitter and frequency number to do this. These numbers may vary depending on your area.
Fix #4: Restart the TV and Cable Box
One effective way to clear any issue is to factory reset your TV. You can restart by following the simple steps below:
- Press your TV’s power off button.
- Plug your TV from the mains and wait for two minutes.
- Plug it back and power on your television.
After restarting, try to do an automatic search. If it does not work, try another fix.
Fix #5: Inspect the Tuner Closely
Now, you can inspect your TV’s tuner to see if its works properly. To get this done, refer to the steps below:
- Disconnect the coax cable from your screen.
- Connect the cable to a different TV unit.
- Then, run an automatic channel search on that spare TV unit.
If it still doesn’t work, there may be problems with your TV’s tuner. But, if the autoscan works properly on a different television, your former unit has the problem. Contact a technician for assistance.
Fix #6: Try Another Coaxial Cable
When you scan for TV channels using a damaged cable, the results will not show up. You should check its condition by carefully inspecting it. Check for signs of wear and tear. If you find any, try another coaxial cable to test the issue.
After using the new cable, perform an auto-scan search.
Fix #7: Check the Availability of Certain Channels in Your Region
Depending on your location, different frequencies will be offered. So, we suggest checking which channels are available in your region. You can find free channel checkers online to provide you list of the available frequencies in your area.
If you can’t get the channels that should be available to you, perform a re-scan. As mentioned above, some broadcast stations change their frequency. Here’s how to perform a rescan:
- On your remote control, press “Menu.”
- From the TV options, go to “Channel Scan.”
- Press “Rescan.” Note that this option could appear as “Auto-Tune” or “Tune” on some TV models.
Conclusion
If your TV antenna is not picking up any channels, you can simply follow the seven fixes above to resolve your concern. Now, you can focus on your TV screen and watch your favorite channels anytime!
