How to stop Losing Satellite TV Signals in Rain fade and Snow fade?

Satellite TV (DTH / Direct TV) uses Satellite technology (Ku-Band) to broadcast TV channels to Set-Top Boxes. Satellite signals are often lost during bad weather as the clouds, the rain, and the associated lightning can disrupt the satellite signals and prevent them from reaching the dish antenna. It’s called “rain fade or “Snow fade”. Often when this happens the best thing to do is wait until the rain passes. DTH or Direct TV Satellite signals are also impacted by bad weather conditions in rainy seasons. Because satellite TV uses Ku-Band signals to broadcast TV programs from satellite using Ku-Band technology. The satellite Ku-band frequency range is that which is resonant with water. Due to this, the Ku-band signals are absorbed and dispersed readily by atmospheric water (which means Humidity and clouds) and are especially bad in inclement weather. The Ku-band satellite signals allow transmission at higher frequencies and data rates while being able to penetrate the atmosphere with sufficient power left over to give an acceptable signal performance. But In addition to the absorption, the increased mass between the DTH antenna and the satellite scatters and attenuates the down DD Free dish DTH signals from the satellite. The wavelength of microwave downlink frequency used in all satellite TV broadcasts including DSTV, Direct TV, DishTV, SkyTV, etc is comparable to the diameter of raindrops, and therefore the wave cannot just pass through it without being substantially attenuated. Hence the loss of the DTH signal during rains occurs. anybody may be disturbing but there are no easy ways out.

Why does cable TV continue to run in the rainy season but satellite TV does not?

The C-Band signals are less focused compared to the Ku-Band Signals (higher band satellite frequencies). This is due to the longer wavelength in C Band. Here less focused signals mean that these signals are less affected by rain. Due to the rain, The attenuation of the C-band signal can be lost till 0.4dB-2dB only. Moreover, these less focused signals can provide a wider range of coverage by using a larger C-Band dish antenna. However, these signals need a larger dish size. so that they can be received from the satellite. C-band is preferred in some locations where rainfalls are heavy. Most Cable operators use only a C-Band dish antenna which is also called a commercial dish antenna to downlink signals, then they transfer these signals to the viewer’s home by using a coaxial / fiber cable with help of amplifiers. So now you can understand why Cable TV is less affected by rain than any DTH service.

Satellite TV Rain fade problem solution –

Increase DTH Antenna Size –

You can increase the size of the DTH antenna if your area comes in heavy rainfall. You should use a 90cm DTH antenna.

Stop Satellite TV Signals leakage –

You should check all the Coaxial cables and connectors to stop signal leakage. You must use branded and high-quality Coaxial cables and connectors to stop signal losses.

Use only High-Quality LNB –

You should use only branded LNBs to increase signal stability. You can check reputed brands like Sharp, SOLID, Power-ox, etc.

Cover Satellite Antenna with Spray – Rain fade –

You can spray your DD Freedish antenna with a non-stick cooking spray oil. This spray prevents raindrops from clinging to the DTH antenna, which can cause it to receive DD Free dish signals erratically. You will need to spray the satellite antenna at least once every three months. This spray also prevents snowfall from clinging to the satellite Ku-band antenna.

Reduce Snow and Ice Accumulation – Snow fade –

Heavy snow can affect signal quality. Snow and ice accumulation on the dish affects signal reception, which is why subscribers who live in frigid parts of the country sometimes buy a Ku-Band satellite TV antenna with built-in heaters. You can also find the same DTH antenna if your area comes in heavy snowfall.

Realignment of Antenna –

If the rain is accompanied by high winds, the dish may be out of alignment with the satellite. For this, you need to realign your antenna. You can find more satellite TV help topics here.