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Dish Network Common Questions

FAQ About DishNetwork

Can I get local channels where I live?
Yes, local channels are offered in more than 175 local network markets, which covers about 97% of homes in the nation with TV sets. View your DISH TV Package comparison guise to determine the cost and availability of programming.

Do I need to purchase a separate antenna for local channels?
Not at all. If you are able to access local channels where you live, the standard satellite dish that is part of your installation will deliver local programming.

Why does it take a long time for the picture on the guide to show up?
Your receiver has to be programmed to retrieve the guide information. Once this has been done, the guide will work correctly and you should have no more wait periods.

What is the best way to deal with snow and ice on my satellite dish?
Sometimes you will experience a loss of signal due to a build-up of snow or ice on your satellite dish. If this happens use your hand or a small broom to gently brush away as much of the accumulated snow and ice as possible. If your dish is located where it’s difficult to reach you can ask your installer to move it to a more convenient location, or you have the option of purchasing a cover to protect it.

Do tall trees around my home disturb the quality of satellite signal I receive?
Tall trees can definitely interfere with the signal between the satellite and your dish, creating reception issues on your TV. If this is the case, either find a location for your dish that has clearance from the trees or you may need to trim the trees.

Are DISH Network services available in Puerto Rico?
Currently DISH Network does not provide service to Puerto Rico.

Can my Homeowners Association prevent the installation of a satellite dish?
Absolutely not! The satellite dish is no more than 18 – 20 inches, in compliance with the Satellite Consumer Bill of Rights. This regulation was released by the FCC in August of 1996. It preempts local zoning ordinances and Homeowner Association restrictions on DBS dish antennas.

Do I need a special type of TV to get satellite TV service?
No you don’t. DISH Network is compatible with every type of television. Once you have chosen your package and the hardware is installed, you will have instant access to satellite TV.

Is it legal for me to record TV programming?
The laws regarding recording TV programming are somewhat complicated. To begin, there is a difference between broadcast and non-broadcast programming. The broadcast networks such as NBC, ABC, CBS, PBS and FOV are required to permit a single copy of programming so that subscribers can watch it at a different time than it was aired originally. Non-broadcast networks are allowed by the law to determine the copyrights they would like to give to their customers.