How to Install a Satellite Dish

The location of your satellite dish and the way it faces depends on where you are on the planet of course. But we’ll use the middle of the United States and instruct you to find a clear line of sight to the southwest. Check with neighbors or someone who has experience with this process to determine the correct direction in your location.

The mounting post (sometimes called a mast) should be bolted securely to the roof, while determining that the post rises straight up from the base, not at an angle. In other words, make sure it’s “plumb.” Double check the bolts to make sure they are secure. Then put the satellite dish on the post and tighten the bolts only by hand. Put the cable to and through the dish as needed and make your connections.

Carefully align the satellite dish for elevation and skew. These should be available in your owner’s manual. If you have doubts do your best to align your dish as your neighbor did. You can adjust if necessary. You will need a meter to find the correct signal from the satellite or you will have to check signal strength on the television screen. The same testing should be made for horizontal and vertical alignment.