How to install a TV aerial?

We often get questions on how to install an aerial. These questions already start when in the process of buying an aerial. Because what is the best fitting TV aerial for your situation? And what are the pros and cons of the different types of aerials? How to get the best signal on the aerial after buying it? And so on.

In this blog we will go through the process of finding the best fitting TV aerial for you and installing it. We will even take you through the process on how to install a Freeview aerial for receiving over 70 basic and 15 HD channels. So that at the end of this blog you will know exactly what to do to install an aerial yourself!

It’s all about the location you are in

We suggest choosing an aerial on the basis of the distance that you live from the nearest transmitter. With our One For All Assistant app you can easily find out what your distance to the nearest transmitter is. If you live within 15 miles to the transmitter, an indoor aerial will be perfect for you. If you live further away a loft aerial or outdoor aerial will be better.

Pros and cons of installing an indoor aerial

Pros of installing an indoor aerial

• Installing an indoor aerial is extremely easy. Just connect the coax cable to the TV and do a quick channel scan.
• Easy to move around, so you can find a better spot for a clearer signal when needed.
• Minimal in cost and easily portable when moving homes.

Cons of installing an indoor aerial

• Does not work in weak signal areas.
• Concrete walls can interfere with the reception.
• When installing the indoor aerial it should be in line with the nearest transmitter with the least obstruction of metal objects.

Pros and cons of installing an outdoor aerial

Pros of installing an outdoor aerial

• A stronger and better quality TV signal.
• Works well in areas far away from the nearest transmitter.
• Won’t interfere with your interior design.

Cons of installing an outdoor aerial

• The installation is much more work as it needs to be attached to the roof or chimney.
• Needs to be connected to the TV with a long coax cable and drill holes in the wall.
• More expensive.

Pros and cons of installing a loft aerial

Pros of installing a loft aerial

• Easier to install than an outdoor aerial.
• Doesn’t interfere with your interior design.
• More protected than an outdoor aerial.

Cons of installing a loft aerial

• Reception tends to be weaker than an outdoor aerial.
• Does not work if you have a metal roof.
• Takes up space in your loft or attic.

Tip: Buy a loft aerial that is also made to be an outdoor aerial that way you can still move it outside if you can’t seem to get the best reception indoors.

Install Freeview aerial

Want to receive over 70 basic and 15 HD channels with your aerial? With a One For All Freeview aerial you are sure to receive nations favourite programmes without any extra monthly fees! In order to install your Freeview aerial just follow the steps below.

A quick how-to guide

Below you will find a quick how-to video on how to place your indoor aerial best.

Now that we are done choosing the best fitting TV aerial it is time to set it up. Based on the aerial you chose you will have to place it in the right spot. So, indoor aerials near the TV or in the window in line with the nearest transmitter. Outdoor aerials on the roof or chimney facing the nearest transmitter. And loft aerials in the attic or the loft.

Once you have placed your TV aerial in the right place it is time to finalise the installation.

Finalize the TV aerial installation in 3 simple steps

Step 1:

Press the menu on your remote control. (This can be your TV remote or your STB (Set Top Box) remote control – the one used to change the channels)

Step 2:

Select ‘SET UP’ on the menu - if you can’t find this option please check your user manual for specific instructions on how to rescan.

Step 3:

Choose ‘ANTENNA’ then ‘CHANNEL SCAN’ or ‘AUTO TUNE’. Your TV will automatically rescan the available signals which may take a few minutes. Once completed, all your channels will be updated.

Don’t forget to rerun these 3 steps when you move your TV aerial.

Adding an aerial amplifier to your setup

Are you experiencing signal loss due to long coax cabling or the splitting between multiple TVs? Then we suggest you consider adding an aerial amplifier or signal booster. Choose a TV aerial with built-in amplifier or a stand-alone amplifier to work with your outdoor aerial.

Be aware that adding an aerial amplifier or signal booster just for the sake of it can cause over-amplification which can lead to noise or your TV not getting any signals from your aerial.