Troubleshooting your Freeview Television reception

Are you experiencing a loss of channels or picture and sound break up? By following this help guide, you’ll be able to figure out if there is a problem with a local transmitter, what checks you can carry out yourself which could help rectify the problem, and whether you should seek the advice of an aerial engineer.

Effects of poor Freeview reception are:

  • loss of channels
  • picture break up
  • sound glitches/break up


Step 1 – Check if there is a fault with your local transmitter

First, use our Transmitter Checker tool. If there is a fault, it will be highlighted. If there is more than one transmitter listed, check all of them.

If there is no problem with the transmitter, visit our Works & Warnings page. We advise of known issues, major transmitter work and whether high pressure or extreme weather could be causing problems.

If there is an issue with your local transmitter or you’ve found the answer on a Works & Warnings page, the problem should resolve itself without you doing anything. Consider using ý iPlayer or ý Sounds while you wait for the issue/work to be resolved.


Step 2 – Check the cabling

Start by checking the cables that are connected to the television or set-top box and the wall socket. They should be securely connected. If possible, try with another cable, in case the cable or connector is faulty.


Step 3 – Check your television is tuned to the transmitter with the best signal

You should get the strongest signal from the transmitter your aerial is pointing towards. Some Freeview reception problems are due to the receiver not using the best signal. This can be an issue when signals from more than one transmitter can be received. A manual retune will allow you to choose which transmitter signal to tune to. The Transmitter Checker can help figure out which transmitter your aerial is pointing towards.

Check our manual retune guide for instructions.


Step 4 – Check the aerial system

Next, you might want to consider getting your aerial installation checked. We cannot recommend individual Installers. However the is a recognised trade body and can put you in touch with one of their members in your area. If you are a tenant or are using a communal aerial, you should contact your landlord/managing agent.

Also, please read our guides on:


Other Considerations

Obstructions between the aerial and transmitter can cause problems. Trees are the most common obstructions. They can affect the signal. This can be greater at different times of the year (when there are more leaves), when wet or in high winds.

Other examples of obstructions are newly built property nearby, or construction equipment, like a crane. If obstructions are too problematic to overcome and/or permanent, you might want to investigate if you can reposition your aerial and retune to a different transmitter. Another solution would be using another way of receiving services, like for example.

If you suspect trees could be a problem, read our guide What is the effect of trees on reception?


Interference

If after working though the steps above you are still having problems, it’s possible that interference (an unwanted signal interfering with your reception) could be the cause. Please see our other help site, the for further information.