Installing Dish Network satellite dish mainly involves several steps that are easy to follow if done correctly. Follow these simple steps, get the right equipment, and your Dish service will be up and running in no time. Below is a detailed procedure on how to install a Dish Network dish antenna from the beginning to the end.
Choose Your Dish Equipment
The first part of the decision process is to identify what Dish Network equipment you require. Dish provides various satellite packages with different considerations such as the number of TVs, budget, and installation options. Some key equipment components you’ll need include:
- Dish antenna: This is the actual dish that will be installed on the roof of your house and will be aimed towards Dish satellites. Dish delivers pizzas in sizes from 18 inches up to 36 inches.
- Receiver: The receiver receives the signal from the satellite and decodes it to bring you the video and the audio for the television. dish receivers, they also allow you to access the on-screen program guide as well as the channel packages.
- Cables and connections: You will require coaxial cables to connect the dish to the Dish receivers and from the receivers to the TV sets. Dish packages now include the specific cables required for installation.
Select An Installation Location
The most preferred location for your Dish antennae is one that has a direct line of sight in the southern direction. This makes the dish point towards the Dish satellites that are in orbit within the equatorial region. Some factors to consider when picking an install site:
- Roof or ground mounting: It is recommended to mount it on the roof, however, if this is impossible, you can install it on an area cleared in your backyard. There should be no trees or other structures that may hinder the signal in the spot where the equipment will be installed.
- Pointing space: You require an open area with the facing direction ranging between 110 and 260 degrees of the compass. This enables you to make the dish at the right angle to capture the signal as required.
- Cable reach: Ensure that you can run cables right up to the rooms with television sets within the house from the location.
Install The Mount
Once the location has been decided, the next step will be to safely fix the satellite dish bracket. In the roof mount, locate the fixing point with care being taken to ensure the location is strong enough to support the dish with rafters or decking available. For a ground mount, plan and pour a concrete sleeve or make use of a patio or deck, if any. Refer to Dish’s safety measures when installing the mount to ensure optimal positioning.
Mount The Dish
Affix the Dish satellite dish to brackets in a manner that is recommended by the alignment that is included in your package. Tighten the bolts until they are properly fastened so that the dish does not move out of position in the course of its use. This would depend on the size of your dish and the methods you or the helper you hire to put it on the mount. Caution should always be observed during this step.
Run The Cable
Next, connect the coaxial cable from the LNB arm which is the curved structure sticking out from the dish to where you want your satellite receiver to be placed. If you have to penetrate the exterior walls, seal the holes containing cables with weather sealant to keep off the pests, moisture, and air. Ensure that you have extra cable length to allow for fine-tuning so that you can have the right angle.
Connect To The Receiver
Within your home, attach the tip of the coaxial cable to the ‘satellite in’ terminal of the Dish Network receiver at the back of the unit. Twist the two parts more closely by hand – do not use any tools to do it because they can easily crush the electronics. When you want to connect multiple rooms, you will have to split the cable with a Dish Duo or splitter accessory for other outlet feeds.
Power On The System
Now comes the fun part – turn everything on! Make sure that the power is switched on both in the Dish receiver as well as in your television set. The receiver will initially have to lock on to the satellite signals and download the guide data which will take a few minutes. When the receiver is connected, you should see the Dish greeting screen on your TV, meaning that you now have a working Dish service!
Peak The Dish Signal
However, to achieve the best results, you will have to properly aim or “peak” the Dish antenna. On the receiver menu locate the signal strength option under the System Setup. Release the dish mount bolts slightly then gradually turn the dish horizontally left and right and/or vertically up and down searching for higher signal levels on the connected satellites. When peaking correctly, tighten the dish mount back down.
Activate Your Programming
The last process is the activation of the Dish Network programming package for whichever channel, additional features, and subscription services are needed. You can activate your account either online or through phone with Dish and they’ll send activation codes to your receivers. Key in this code using your remote and you are set to go with Dish TV!
By following these key steps from start to finish you can be assured that installing your own Dish Network satellite antenna will not be a negative experience. Although it does require some time and resources, the fact that you are in charge of your equipment and do not have to pay installation costs makes it a very DIY and beneficial thing for many homeowners and Dish customers. Just be sure to follow the safety procedures and go back to Dish’s instructions now and then. So get ready to start watching your favorite shows on your new Dish service!
Ready to upgrade your TV experience? Call us now at (877) 471-4808 to find the perfect Dish Network plan for you! Don’t miss out on great entertainment—our team is here to help you choose the best package and get you started today.