The last analog TV transmitters in Australia were shut off in 2013 and the switch was made to digital TV. If you want access to the programs broadcasted on free-to-air TV or you need repairs on your existing antenna, you’re going to need a TV antenna installer. 

Are TV antennas still necessary?

It’s easy to look at the range of streaming services that only need a wi-fi connection and question whether it’s necessary to get an antenna installed in your home. You wouldn’t be the first person to ask whether it’s necessary to have one. But are they really necessary these days?

In short, yes. 

Free-to-air (FTA) TV is still broadcasting in Australia and laws like the anti-siphoning legislation make big events available on the air. This is great for any sports fans as any significant sporting event must be available on FTA.

Many free-to-air programs may be streamed on their various apps but in general, the picture quality you find will be worse. If you’re a fan of ABC or SBS, then it will generally be worth getting an antenna installed.

It goes for other streaming services as well. Many streaming services don’t offer HDTV in their basic plans. An antenna will let you enjoy many of these programs in HD without the extra cost. 

Common antenna problems

Some of the most common problems associated with TV antennas include a deterioration of the antenna cable, loose outlet connectors, poor quality fly leads and poorly secured units. All these issues can lead to poor reception of TV broadcasts. An antenna specialist is best placed to advise all these cases.Indoor antennas vs outdoor antennas br

Indoor antennas vs outdoor antennas

One of the first questions you’ll come across when researching antennas is the question of outdoor vs indoor antennas. As the names suggest, one is attached to the outside of your home, usually on the roof, and the other is installed inside.

The better option for most Australians, outdoor antennas come in different styles and are generally a little more involved to install. It’s usually assumed that, unless you have limitations that stop you from installing one, most people get an outdoor antenna installed. 

Indoor antennas generally don’t work as well as outdoor antennas, giving you pixelated images and weak signals. They can be useful if you don’t have access to the roof, like many apartment dwellers, and they are generally a cheaper option. They also let you get by without the need for a cable or satellite service provider. 

Types of antenna

Outside of the indoor vs outdoor antenna decision, there are many different types of antennas. Choosing the right one for your needs can be important to make sure that you get the services you want. 

Some common types of antennas you’ll come across are:

Yagi

The most popular option for most Australians, they are often combination VHF/UHF antennas. Most areas in Australia use a combination of these signals making Yagis a great option. 

They can take up some space, with some options being as long as 2m, but this isn’t an issue for most houses. If you are willing to pay a little extra, you can get an antenna with corner reflectors behind the UHF components. These improve the directionality of your antenna and can lower interference.  

Log periodic directional

Log periodic antennas are directional, which means that they must be pointed in a particular direction to work properly. Log periodic antennas are designed to pick up a wide array of signal frequencies. 

What they add in signal range, they tend to lose in gain – the clarity of the signal. If your area has great signal strength or if you like to have a broader range of frequencies, then log periodic antennas are the right choice for you.  

Phased array 

Phased array antennas are generally used in rural areas. They feature a flat panel with some extra components. They are best suited for areas that get poor signal quality or are far from a TV station. 

When installed, they must be positioned very specifically otherwise the signal can be very pixelated. They must be positioned directly in line with the transmitter to work properly. 

How much do antenna services cost?

An antenna service will generally have a call-out fee for every job. Thereafter costs will be determined by the length of the job, materials supplied and the ease of access to the site. Expect to pay in the region of $60 per hour, though this figure may well be affected by where you live and how experienced the installer is.

What else do I need for my antenna installation?

Your antenna isn’t the only important part of your installation. Two more components will factor into the strength and quality of your signal. Cables and connectors. 

The cables you choose for your setup can have a huge impact on your signal. If the cable is lower quality or poorly designed, you can find that the strong signal your antenna is picking up is still giving you pixelated tv. Other cables will start to show poor image quality when the signal is split to multiple TVs. 

When choosing cabling for your antenna, the best option is high-grade coaxial cable. Coaxial cabling comes in many forms but the best options are satellite grade or quad screen coaxial. These will give you the best signal and are great if you will be using multiple TVs. 

The connectors simply need to be strong and functional to maintain a reliable connection.

Hiring an antenna service company

When hiring your antenna service, ensure that they give you an obligation-free quote. Be aware that the system, and subsequently the quote, will depend on your location, the number of outlets you have, and any other technical issues.