In recent years, more and more people are rediscovering the benefits of using an outdoor antenna for watching TV. After all, the price of cable is getting out of control and most cable shows are now available on streaming services.

On the other hand, making the switch to an antenna is a one-time investment. And, believe it or not, antennas actually provide higher picture quality than cable or satellite.

This article takes a look at how to install an outdoor antenna so that you can start saving money today. Keep reading to discover how simple this process really is.

Determining What You Need

The first step is to determine the type of antennae that you’ll need. To accomplish this, you’ll need to locate your local broadcast towers. This will help you understand the best type of antenna for reaching the broadcast signals that are transmitted from the towers of the various stations.

Next, take a look at your TV. Obviously, newer TVs are far different from models made even five or ten years ago, so they will have different hardware requirements.

Older TVs will need a digital converter box in order to convert the digital signals received from broadcast towers.

Choose an Antenna

Once you have the necessary information about your TV and the location of the broadcast towers in your area, you can start shopping for the type of antenna that will best serve your needs.

Directional antennas are optimized for receiving signals from specific directions, whereas omnidirectional antennas can receive signals from a full 360-degree radius.

Keep in mind that omnidirectional antennas are best for areas with flat terrain and when you’re less than 20 miles from the towers.

You will also need to consider factors such as the range of the antenna, as well as CTA color codes and whether or not you’ll need a signal amplifier. And if you choose a directional antenna, you might also want to invest in an antenna rotator to help find the best signal in the area.

Here is a resource where you can learn more about aerial installation cost.

Choosing a Location to Install the Antenna

As with real estate, the location of your outdoor antenna is extremely important. In fact, choosing the right location can make the difference between picking up one channel or dozens.

The key is to avoid obstructions. Thus keep it away from walls, chimneys, or any other physical structure that might prevent the broadcast signal from easily reaching the antenna.

Be sure to mount it at least 10-20 feet off the ground so that it will be out of the wall from cars, trees, and most houses.

Installation

The antenna kit should come with a mounting bracket. Follow the directions for attaching the bracket to your roof and then run the coaxial cable into your home to the TV.

Once the cable is connected to your TV, run a search of the local channels, adjusting the antenna as needed.

Be sure that the antenna is securely mounted to the roof so that it can handle weather conditions such as wind, rain, and snow with being blown out of place.

A Step-By-Step on How to Install an Outdoor Antenna

Making the switch from cable to an antenna might sound complicated. Fortunately, the tips contained here for how to install an outdoor antenna will help make the process as simple as possible.

Keep scrolling to discover more lifestyle and home improvement tips and advice.

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