A few things need to be done if you want to use an outdoor TV antenna, but they’re pretty simple. We at SerifTV have developed a guide to help you through the process!
Before going further, you may want to check the best outdoor tv antenna this year!
To help you, we’ve made a guide that explains how to install an outdoor TV antenna. We did our best to keep things simple, so you can get things done as quickly as possible, even if you aren’t tech-savvy.
One thing to note, though, is that your specific antenna may come with its own set of instructions. If it does (and chances are it will), ensure you have them ready so you can set it up properly, even with our guide.
You’ll Need to Do Some Research First
The first step towards getting those free TV signals is done from the comfort of your home. Your antenna should be pointing towards a nearby broadcast tower (or more).
This is how they work; you can’t just have it point in a random location and expect signals. If neighbors have outdoor antennas, you could ask them where their antenna is pointing. This should tell you where to point it. Here, you can check how to boost an outdoor TV antenna signal.
Another option is to use a service like TVFool. These services allow you to enter your address, and they’ll tell you where the nearest broadcast tower is. This should give you a good idea of where you’ll want to point it, and with some fine-tuning, you’ll get it just right.
Also, decide where you would put the antenna on your rooftop—various options depending on how high it is and how your rooftop is built. Make sure you pick the one that works best for you and has the right benefits.
Prepare the Bracket
Outdoor antennas are commonly mounted on brackets. These brackets are best assembled indoors, so you only have to install them when you go out. We’re pretty positive you got assembly instructions in the box, so ensure you follow them, as they vary from bracket to bracket.
Once you’ve got it assembled, you’ll want to grab the tools you’ll need for roof installation and get to work. The bracket commonly screws in to stay secure. If you want to add waterproofing, apply silicone caulk on the screws. This should keep water out of the way.
Do Any Antenna Assembly Indoors, Too
While most antennas come preassembled, some require assembly before you mount them. This is another thing that you could do indoors, and you’ll most likely have instructions with it as well. Do follow those instructions if you want your antenna to work as intended. You can mount it on the bracket outside as soon as assembled.
Mounting the Antenna Pole and the Antenna Itself
That mounting bracket has a sleeve that commonly has bolts on it. Those bolts should be loosened to slide the antenna in.
The pole should get to the bottom of the sleeve for a secure installation. Once you’ve done this, tighten the bolts to keep everything in place.
The next step is to loosen the bolts on the antenna sleeve. The antenna should slide over the pole until you have the pole at the top of the sleeve.
This is where you should rotate the antenna to face the broadcast tower’s location. A rule of thumb is not to tighten the screws completely until you’re sure you have it pointing in the right direction and get a strong signal.
To summarize with some easy-to-follow steps:
- Choose a suitable location on your roof for the antenna. It’s important to consider factors such as the direction of the TV towers and any potential obstructions that may block the signal.
- Gather the necessary tools and materials, including a ladder, drill, screws, roofing nails, sealant, and a mount for the antenna.
- Follow all safety precautions when using a ladder and working on a roof. Make sure the ladder is securely placed and have someone hold it steady while you work.
- Use the drill to attach the mount to the roof using screws or nails. Ensure the mount is securely attached and sealed with sealant to prevent leaks.
- Assemble the antenna according to the manufacturer’s instructions, careful not to damage any components.
- Attach the antenna to the mount and adjust the position as needed to get the best reception.
- Connect the antenna to your TV or another receiving device according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Test Everything with a Temporary Cable
It’s too early to finalize everything, as the antenna will require fine-tuning before it works at its best.
If you have someone with a few free minutes, now would be a good time to ask for their help.
Grab a coaxial cable, and run it from your TV setup to the antenna. You should adjust the antenna on the roof while the other person is in front of the TV, so they can tell you what position works best.
When figured out, tighten those bolts you left loose.
Finalize the Coaxial Cable Setup
Remove that temporary cable, and get the one you’ll be using. You’ll want to ground the antenna, which is a crucial safety step. Use a grounding block connected to your house or building’s ground, and ensure you abide by your area’s electric guidelines and codes.
Make sure you take your time to secure all the wires. This should be done carefully, so don’t rush it.
And if you are in the mood for a DIY project, you may want to check how to make an outdoor TV antenna here.
A Few Safety Tips
- You should always do as much as possible inside your home or on the ground. Do only what’s essential on the rooftop itself.
- Be wary of any power lines, and stay at least 20 feet away if you want to stay risk-free. If your antenna makes contact with the power line, seek a professional, but don’t remove it yourself.
- Ensure you ground the whole setup properly; it is a big safety hazard. If you aren’t sure you can do this yourself, seek a professional.
- Avoid windy days for installation. The wind is not a friend when you’re on a rooftop; you’ll want calm weather.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, installing an outdoor TV antenna isn’t all that difficult. There are some precautions you’ll need to take and a few things you’ll want to be careful about, but aside from that, you should be able to set it up easily!
