Is It Better To Repair Or Replace A TV Aerial?

Customers ask us this every week. The honest answer depends on the age of the aerial, the fault, and how the rest of the install looks. Here's how we decide.

Repair usually makes sense when…

• The aerial itself is under 8 years old and in good nick.
• The fault is at the connector, the cable, or the amp — not the aerial element.
• It's been knocked off alignment by wind but the rods are intact.
• The bracket and lashing kit are still solid.

A re-align, a new F-plug or a fresh down-lead is a quick, cheap visit — and it'll keep you running for years.

Replace usually makes sense when…

• The aerial is 12+ years old, sun-damaged or showing corrosion.
• Half the rods are missing or bent.
• The bracket is rusted and the chimney pointing is poor — we'd rather not lash to it again.
• You've had three repair calls in two years on the same install.
• You're upgrading the loft, the lounge, or the cabling for a new TV setup anyway.

The "free repair on top of a new install" trap

Some firms will quote a cheap repair, then "discover" you need a new aerial when they're up there. We don't work like that. If we think a repair will hold for a couple of years, we'll quote the repair. If we think you'll be back inside 12 months, we'll tell you up front and quote both — the choice is yours.

Cost vs. peace of mind

A new install carries our 18-month guarantee. A repair carries a 6-month guarantee on the part replaced. For most homeowners with an older aerial, a fresh install is the better value over five years.

Not sure which you need? Call 0161 399 1757 or send a photo of the aerial on WhatsApp and we'll give you a straight answer.