The Ultimate Checklist for Relocating Your Satellite TV Setup
Step 1: Decide What Stays and What Goes
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is:“Should I take the satellite dish with me or leave it at the old house?” In many property sales, the satellite dish and mounting brackets are considered fixtures of the property and must be left behind for the new owners. Always double-check your rental agreement or sale contract before unbolting anything from the roof.
Equipment Usually Left Behind:
- The exterior satellite dish
- Wall-mounting brackets
- Wall-mounted cable conduits (trunking)
- Exterior cable clips and drilled fittings
Equipment You Should Always Take:
- Your Decoder
- The Smart Card (make sure it stays inside the decoder)
- The Remote Control
- The HDMI cable
- The power supply and power cable
- Wi-Fi connectors or accessories
Example:If you’re moving from Pretoria East to Midrand, you leave the existing dish bolted to the old property and carry your decoder, remote, and cables to the new home. An independent technician can then supply and mount a brand new dish at your new property.
Step 2: Label and Pack Your Equipment Carefully
Electronic devices can easily be damaged during a chaotic move. Pro Packing Tips:
- Wrap it up:Wrap the decoder in bubble wrap, a thick towel, or a soft cloth.
- Remove Batteries:Take the batteries out of your remotes before packing to prevent battery acid leaks.
- Bag the Cords:Store your HDMI and power cables together in a clear, labeled Ziploc bag so they don’t get lost in a box of random wires.
- Top Load Only:Never place heavy items on top of the decoder, as the internal hard drive is fragile.
Step 3: Check the New Property Before Moving Day
Not all homes have the same satellite infrastructure. Before moving day arrives, do a quick inspection of the new house:
- Is there an existing satellite dish on the roof?
- Are the outdoor cables intact, or are they frayed and sun-damaged?
- Are there TV aerial and power plug points available in the living room or bedrooms where you want your TVs?
Example:You move into a house in Centurion that already has a dish on the roof. However, the dish has been unused for years, and the LNB is weather-damaged. Identifying this early means you can book an installer to fix it before you even unpack your TV.
Step 4: Schedule Your Installation in Advance
Many people wait until the moving truck drives away to think about their TV setup. This often leads to frustrating delays, especially if you move on a busy weekend or at month-end. Scheduling an independent installation ahead of time ensures:
- The existing equipment is inspected safely.
- Cabling is run neatly before your heavy furniture is pushed against the walls.
- The dish is aligned correctly using professional signal meters.
Tips to Prevent Future Signal Problems
Staying proactive can help keep your entertainment running smoothly:
- Have your satellite dish bracket inspected periodically to ensure it is tightly secured.
- Use a surge protector for your decoder and TV.
- Ensure outdoor cable connections are properly waterproofed.
- Trim tree branches that may be swaying and blocking the dish’s line of sight.
- Neverattempt DIY roof repairs during or immediately after storms.
Step 5: Protect Your Equipment From Power Surges
Moving homes often means dealing with unfamiliar electrical systems. To safeguard your expensive electronics from day one:
- Use a Surge Protector:Never plug your decoder directly into the wall socket.
- Check the Plugs:Ensure the wall sockets are secure and not sparking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Moving
- Taking the Dish Without Permission:If the property has been sold, confirm with the new owners or the estate agent before removing the dish.
- Forgetting the Smart Card:Many people pack the decoder but accidentally pull the smart card out and lose it in the move. Leave it securely slotted in the machine.
- DIY Roof Installations:Attempting to climb a new, unfamiliar roof to install or align a dish is incredibly dangerous. Always leave roof work to the professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the existing dish at my new home?
- Possibly. If the dish is in good condition, free of rust, and correctly aligned, an installer can simply plug your decoder into the existing cables.
Should I move my decoder myself?
- Yes. Installers typically do not transport your personal electronics. You should safely transport your decoder, remote, and cables in your own vehicle.
What if there is no dish at the new property?
- You will need a completely new installation. An independent installer can supply the dish, bracket, LNB, and cabling required to get you connected.
Ready for a Stress-Free Move?
Satelite TV Masters SA Editorial Team
