Posted on: June 3, 2019 Posted by: Allene Lewis Comments: 0

A TV antenna is designed to let you get either a better reception or to get some new channels that would be unobtainable without it, and that is an attractive option for many people.

TV antennas come in two basic types – indoor and outdoor. Here we concentrate on the latter – looking in particular at what you should be thinking about when looking for an outdoor TV antenna so you make the best possible purchase.

#1 – Don’t automatically choose an outdoor antenna model that one or more of your neighbors have

Although it seems like a perfectly logical thing to do the reception conditions can vary quote noticeably between houses, so you could easily waste your cash.

#2 – Look at the range the outdoor antenna has

Ideally look for something with at least a 70-mile range (and still capable of getting a good signal), or look for ~160ish miles if you have an RV and like to get off the beaten track.

#3 – How easy is the installation?

There are plenty of designs that don’t need any tools at all to install, so long as they are positioned right it’s pretty straightforward.

#4 – Do you want/need an E-filter?

They are pretty useful if you are going to get lots of interference from the 3/4G signals of mobile phones and tablets, so think about this if your family owns several of those!

#5 – If you travel consider an omnidirectional type of antenna.

The major advantage of these is that they can get a signal from any direction without you needing to do a thing. This is a huge help if you are in an RV, where the signal will be different at every stop.

#6 – Look for surge protection

Your antenna can’t help but be a major attraction to lightning, so why put yourself and your property at risk? Surge protection will deal with any strikes without blowing all your fuses.

#7 – Look out for a long coax

Coax, (officially known as coaxial cable), is the cable that connects your antenna to your TV. The longer it is the easier you may find it to install. You also have more options on positioning with a longer cable.

#8 – Consider the weather

Serious and prolonged wind could mean you are waving goodbye to your outdoor antenna, so if you like in an extremely high wind area consider a compact style antenna. On the other hand, if snow is a likely issue you need an antenna that will still perform fine when buried in the white stuff.

There’s a lot to think about, and if it all seems a bit baffling why not cheat and make use of prepared lists? These are handy guides made up of fully reviewed items, invaluable when you are choosing an outdoor antenna. It’s great if you can get a reliable shortcut to a great outdoor antenna, as this piece of equipment will make all the difference to your enjoyment of all your TV has to offer.

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