Few things are more frustrating than watching your favourite show or a big game, only to have your DStv signal cut out at the worst possible moment. Whether it’s the “no signal” message or pixelated images that come and go, DStv signal issues are not just disruptive — they’re avoidable with the right expertise.
At Horizon Connect, we’ve been solving signal problems since 1996. With nearly three decades of experience and a team of fully accredited technicians, we understand the ins and outs of DStv installations better than most. In this article, we’ll break down the most common causes of DStv signal drops and explain how our professional team can help you get back to uninterrupted viewing.
1. Misaligned Satellite Dish
One of the leading causes of poor DStv signal is dish misalignment. Your satellite dish needs to be precisely angled to receive signals from the satellite in orbit. Even a slight shift caused by strong winds, poor installation, or building movement can interfere with signal reception. At Horizon Connect, our technicians use specialised tools to ensure exact alignment and lock the dish in place with secure fittings to prevent future shifts. We also conduct signal strength and quality tests after installation to guarantee optimal performance.
2. Weather Interference
While DStv is generally reliable, heavy rain, thunderstorms, and dense cloud cover can weaken the signal. Known as “rain fade,” this phenomenon affects signal clarity and can result in temporary outages. While you can’t control the weather, you can minimise the impact. A properly installed and aligned dish with high-quality cabling helps reduce signal loss in bad weather conditions, especially during the rainy season in Cape Town. Our installations focus on durability and weather resistance. We use premium equipment to help maintain strong signal quality even in less-than-perfect weather.
3. Obstructions Around the Dish
Your dish needs a clear line of sight to the satellite. Trees, new buildings, hanging branches, or even bird nests can block or reflect the signal, causing interference or complete loss. Our team will assess your property to find the best placement, usually high up and away from obstructions. If there are potential future blockages (like fast-growing trees), we’ll advise on alternative positioning to avoid future issues.
4. Damaged or Poor-Quality Cabling
The cables connecting your dish to your decoder are just as important as the dish itself. Over time, exposure to sun, rain, and general wear and tear can lead to damaged insulation, water ingress, or loose connectors all of which cause signal instability. We only use industry-grade coaxial cable and secure fittings to ensure long-term performance. If you’re experiencing regular signal dropouts, it could be as simple as replacing or rerouting damaged cables and we handle it all, neatly and professionally.
5. Faulty or Outdated Decoder Equipment
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the dish or signal, it’s the decoder. Older decoders may not process signals efficiently, and software glitches or power supply issues can cause freezing, pixelation, or complete signal loss. We’ll run diagnostics to determine if your decoder is the issue. If needed, we’ll assist with replacements or upgrades and guide you through reconnecting your viewing settings, ensuring a seamless experience.
Horizon Connect: Your DStv Satellite Specialists Since 1996
At Horizon Connect, we understand that great entertainment starts with great installation. That’s why we offer:
- Full DStv installations for homes and businesses
- Signal troubleshooting and realignment
- Extra TV point installations
- Professional cable routing and tidy setups
- Accredited technicians with years of hands-on experience
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all. Every installation is tailored to your property’s layout, signal conditions, and viewing needs. Whether you’re installing DStv for the first time, adding an extra TV room, or just tired of unreliable service — we’ll get it sorted, quickly and professionally.
Ready to Fix Your DStv Signal?
Don’t waste another evening resetting your decoder or jiggling cables. Get your DStv signal fixed once and for all by the experts. Call Horizon Connect on 021 557 6493.
