Jul 17
29
This case study looks at an aerial installation area where line of sight was towards the Trawden TV transmitter with Pendle Hill visible in the background. From an installer’s point of view, this is a good example of why the local transmitter you can see is not always the one that will give you the full Freeview service.
The Issue: Freeview Light
The Trawden transmitter is one of several smaller relay transmitters in the area that only broadcast Freeview Lite. Freeview Lite means you only get the core public service channels (BBC, ITV, Channel 4, Channel 5 and a few extras) – you do not get the full extended Freeview line?up. So even if the signal looks strong, the channel choice will still be limited because the transmitter simply isn’t broadcasting the rest.
Our Recommendation
In areas like this, where the local transmitter is Freeview Lite and it’s difficult or impossible to get a reliable signal from a full?service main transmitter, we normally recommend Freesat as the best alternative.
- Freesat uses a satellite dish, not the local TV mast.
- You get a much wider selection of channels than Freeview Lite.
- There is no monthly subscription for the free channels.
- It’s ideal for rural or sheltered locations where the local relay doesn’t carry the full service.
Why Freesat Works Here
Because Freesat comes from satellite, it doesn’t matter that Trawden is only Freeview Lite or that Pendle Hill is blocking or reflecting some signals. As long as we can get a clear line of sight to the satellite (usually south?facing), we can install a dish and the customer can enjoy a full range of TV channels.
Additional Services
We always tell customers in these areas that we can also:
- repair or replace existing TV aerials if they are faulty or water?damaged;
- test whether a higher?gain aerial or a different direction might pick up a full?service transmitter;
- install Freesat side?by?side with the aerial so the property has both options.
Conclusion
This aerial fitter’s view over to the Trawden transmitter and Pendle Hill is a reminder that not every visible mast carries the full Freeview service.
Where only Freeview Lite is available, switching to or adding Freesat is often the simplest way to get all the channels you expect without paying a subscription. If you are in a similar area and want to check your options, get in touch – we can test the signal and advise on either an aerial repair or a Freesat installation.
