Jul 18
13
This case study introduces our new feature showcasing aerial photographs and views captured by our engineers while carrying out TV aerial installation work across the local area. This example highlights a common modern issue—solar panels blocking Freeview signals—and how we resolved it for a customer.
The customer had been experiencing complete loss of signal from their loft aerial. Once our engineer accessed the roof, the problem became immediately obvious.
Initial Inspection
The customer’s original TV aerial was located inside the loft. While this had worked previously, a new solar panel installation on the roof had created a total obstruction to the Freeview signal path. Solar panels are highly reflective and can completely block or distort TV signals when positioned between the aerial and the transmitter.
With the solar panels directly in front of the loft aerial, the Freeview signal was wiped out. The only effective solution was to move the aerial to a higher location with clear line of sight.
Installing the New Aerial
Our engineer installed a new 13-element TV aerial on the chimney, giving it full visibility towards the transmitter and ensuring the signal bypassed the solar panels entirely. Chimney mounting is often the best option in cases like this, as it provides both height and an unobstructed view.
The aerial was aligned carefully using a professional signal meter to achieve the strongest possible readings. Once the correct position was confirmed, the aerial was fixed securely to the chimney using weather-resistant brackets and clips.
New coaxial cabling was routed safely down from the chimney, clipped neatly, and brought into the home at the agreed entry point.
Result
The customer received:
- A new 13-element aerial mounted above the line of solar panels
- Strong and stable Freeview signal restored
- A chimney installation protected from future obstructions
- A neat cable run with clean entry into the property
Moving the aerial from the loft to the chimney instantly resolved the signal issue and prevented the solar panels from causing any further interference.
Our Final Say
As more homes install solar panels, signal blockages are becoming increasingly common. Loft aerials are particularly vulnerable because even a small obstruction between the aerial and the transmitter can cut the signal completely.
In many cases, the only reliable fix is to relocate the aerial externally—usually onto a chimney or high wall—where it can receive an uninterrupted Freeview signal. If solar panels or other additions are affecting your TV reception, we can assess the problem and install an aerial in the best possible position.
