Analogue TV – Weak signal

If your TV picture is snowy or fuzzy, the sound is distorted or the Ceefax text is jumbled, it's because the signal getting to your TV isn't strong enough. A weak signal may even lead to you not receiving any picture or sound at all.

The cause of the weak signal could be reduced power at your local transmitter, or a problem with your TV or aerial. It may also be because you're a long way from the nearest transmitter.

• Use our reception problems tool to see if your local transmitter is currently being affected by maintenance work. You can also check Digital UK's Planned Engineering Works.
• Check your TV: make sure all the leads - the aerial, the video recorder, DVD recorder, etc - are properly connected. Also make sure your TV is correctly tuned (see your manual for more information).
• Check your aerial: it may be be broken or pointing (even slightly) in the wrong direction, or the cable may be broken or loose. See TV aerials.
• If you're a long way from the nearest transmitter, you may need a higher performance aerial or an amplifier to boost the signal. A professional aerial installer can advise you about this.