Frequently Asked Questions
With every new subscription service you obtain, there are a variety of questions you will have. This Satellite TV FAQs guide include DIRECTV FAQs as well as Dish Network FAQs to help aid in your decision-making process in which works best for you or will help answer basic questions about an existing contract you may have for satellite TV services.
SATELLITE TV FAQS
Can I get satellite TV in my neighborhood?
All satellite TV subscriptions must be made in the continental U.S. If you live in Hawaii or Alaska, you will require a larger dish in order to receive all of the satellite TV programming. Ultimately, your site must have a clear route to the sky free from buildings, hills, or trees. If you currently live in a townhouse or a condo, you are legally able to install a dish, if you put it on your property and not on common property shared by other residents. Regarding apartments, contact your landlord for usage availabilities.
What satellite dishes do DIRECTV & Dish Network provide?
DIRECTV offers six different dish types, while Dish Network offers four.
Does weather affect my reception?
Rarely does inclement weather such as severe thunderstorms affect your satellite TV viewing abilities. If this does happen however, your TV should return almost immediately after losing connection.
Dish Network FAQs
How can I get local channel programming?
Any subscriber can receive local channel with a $5 per month per account charge.
Do I need an antenna to receive local channels?
Only a standard satellite dish are required to view local programming.
What will it cost each month for multiple TVs?
Dish Network offers a comprehensive bill calculator to calculate estimated monthly costs.
How long does it take to install Dish Network?
Installation should take no more than 2 hours (with 2 TVs being installed). Installation times may vary for a variety of reasons.
DIRECTV FAQs
Does DIRECTV offer local programming?
DIRECTV offers a variety of local channel programming including that in high definition. This is available to approximately 94% of the households in U.S.
What is the difference in quality for satellite TV versus cable?
DIRECTV offers 100% digital quality to its customers.
Is installing DIRECTV satellite service hard?
DIRECTV offers free installation by one of their technical professionals.
DIRECTV transmits digital satellite signals to households across the United States as well as Latin America. For subscribers in Alaska & Hawaii, these subscribers must maintain a different type of satellite dish.
Dish Network offers its subscribers a large package base to choose from. With local programming only an additional $5 a month and no additional equipment required to view this programming, subscribers are happy to maintain their neighborhood broadcasts.
As a television viewer, we recognize the importance of having local channel programming. With a new satellite TV subscription, the importance and ease of finding a provider who offers local channel programming is atop a priority list for new subscribers.