Why is my TV not picking up all the Freeview channels?
Sarah Smith
Published Jan 21, 2026
There are a few reasons for this. Not all Freeview channels have their own apps, and even if they do have one, they might not have live content that we can link to. Also not all programmes are licensed to be streamed via mobile.
Why does my TV not get some channels?
First check that your TV is set to the correct Source or Input, try changing the Source or Input to AV, TV, Digital TV or DTV if you haven't already. If your “No Signal” message is not due to incorrect Source or Input being selected, then it's most likely caused by a set up or antenna fault.
Why do I only get some Freeview channels?
If you're still seeing channels on the Freeview Channel Checker that you're not receiving, you may need to retune your equipment – just follow the steps in our retuning guide. If you're still having problems after that, please check out our aerial troubleshooting guide.
How do I find hidden channels on Freeview?
Press the YouView button on your remote, and choose Settings. Go to the Signal & Connection area and select TV Channels. Select Restore hidden channels. If you unhide hidden channels, you won't be able to re-hide them until we enable this feature in a future software update.
Is there a problem with Freeview today?
Freeview is having issues since 09:00 PM GMT.
38 related questions foundWhy is my digital antenna not picking up channels?
The antenna may have difficulty picking up your favorite stations over the air for several reasons. The causes mostly come down to the basic idea that the signals reaching the device aren't strong enough. You may be too far from the broadcast location, or something physically blocks the signals.
What input should my TV be on?
HDMI, or “High-Definition Media Input,” is the go-to port for all your modern devices. HDMI ports in your TV are used for both video and audio. In addition, most computers have HDMI capabilities, so you can use an HDMI cable to hook your PC up to your TV.
How do I reset my Freeview TV?
How do I retune my TV?
- Press menu on your box or TV remote control.
- Select set up, installation, update, or a similar option. ...
- Select first-time installation (sometimes called factory reset, full retune or default settings).
Do you need an aerial for Freeview?
You do need an aerial to receive Freeview live on TV through the TV Guide but can also view certain channels on internet connected devices without one. If you already have an aerial, make sure the cables are undamaged and connected to the aerial point in your home.
Do I need to retune Freeview?
To get the best service from Freeview it is important to retune from time to time to keep your channel line-up and TV service up to date. This can usually be done by running an automatic retune. Some Freeview TVs do this by themselves, but some require you to select it from the settings menu.
Why is the TV saying no signal?
Overview. A "No Signal", "No Source", or "No Input" message will appear on your TV screen if the TV is not receiving a signal from your TV box. This is often a result of either the TV box being powered off, not being properly connected to the TV, or the TV being set to the wrong input.
Why is my TV suddenly saying no signal?
Check the cable connections between the TV and your video device or receiver. Change the channel or try a different input device or movie. The received signal may be weak. If your TV uses a cable or satellite box, you may need to contact your service provider for further assistance in improving the signal strength.
How do I get my channels back on my TV?
Press the “Menu” button on your remote control. If you don't have a remote, your TV should have a built-in “Menu” button. Find and select the “Channel Scan” option in your TV's menu. This option is sometimes labeled “Rescan,” “Tune,” or “Auto-tune.”
How can I make my antenna signal stronger?
Steps to Improve TV Antenna Reception
- Remove obstacles. Remove obstacles, if possible. ...
- Check and replace antenna connections. ...
- Run a channel scan. ...
- Use a rotor. ...
- Move the antenna. ...
- Use a signal amplifier. ...
- Use a distribution amplifier for multiple TVs or use a separate antenna for each TV. ...
- Get an attenuator.
What causes TV antenna to lose signal?
A: The reason the signal goes in and out is most likely due to “multipath issues.” When a TV signal travels, it bounces off things it hits (such as mountains and high buildings), and those bounces can reach your antenna, confusing your TV's tuner.
How can I boost my TV signal?
How To Improve Weak TV Signal
- Install Your Aerial Outside. ...
- Install The Aerial Higher Up. ...
- Install A Higher Gain TV Aerial. ...
- Align Your TV Aerial For Peak Reception. ...
- Install A Masthead Amplifier. ...
- Remove Splitters – Install Distribution Amplifiers. ...
- Install Good Quality Coaxial Cable. ...
- Install Good Quality “Screened” Wall plates.
How do I get all channels on my TV?
To start, on your TV remote, select “Menu” and then “Settings.” Next, select “Channel Setup” and select “Antenna” or “Air,” depending on your TV. Make sure you are not on “Cable.” Select “Channel Search” or “Channel Scan.” Keep in mind that steps to perform a channel scan may vary.
Why is my TV stuck on one channel?
Resetting the system usually is the most common solution to the TV being stuck on one channel. Press to hold the power button for around 30 sec. After 10 mins, re-plug the set. Press to hold the power button until the TV turns back on.
How do I test my TV signal?
How do I check the signal quality on my TV?
- Open a channel that seems to have a weak signal or interference.
- Open the menu.
- Choose Settings.
- Choose Support.
- Choose Self Diagnosis.
- Choose Signal Information.
- Your signal information will be displayed.
Why do I have to keep retuning my Freeview TV?
You should retune your TV or box regularly – perhaps two to three times a year. When you retune, your Freeview device scans for new channels or updates to existing channels, which means you're receiving all the channels available and getting the best out of Freeview in your area.
How many Freeview channels are there?
What channels do I get? With Freeview, you can get 70 TV channels and more than 30 radio stations, all with no subscription. And with a Freeview HD TV or recorder you can also watch up to 15 HD channels.
How often should you scan your TV for channels?
The bottom line is that a periodic rescan keeps your OTA TV viewing up to date. I recommend that you do a rescan once every three or four months just to make certain that you don't miss out on your favorite shows!
What is the best time of day to scan for channels?
If you have an antenna and are curious, try a channel scan late at night to see whether your list of channels will grow. It's sort of like tuning an AM radio at night. You'll get a lot more stations than you will in the daytime.
What does ATSC 3.0 do?
Specifically, ATSC 3.0 offers 4K resolution and HDR content for over-the-air broadcasts, taking everything about the initial switch to digital TV broadcasting and upgrading it. ATSC 3.0 uses Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplex (OFDM) modulation as opposed to the 8VSB modulation used by ATSC 1.0.
When can you rescan over-the-air channels?
If you rely on an antenna to receive free, over-the-air TV you will need to rescan your TV when your local stations move. You do not need to purchase new equipment or services. If you pay to subscribe to a television service – such as cable or satellite – you do not need to take action.