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If you live in the UK, you’ll know that the weather is as unpredictable as it is uncontrollable, but what may come as a surprise is that both bad and good weather can interfere with your TV signal. Here, we explain what the weather forecast could mean for your TV reception.

Wind, rain and snow

Bad weather such as gale-force winds, heavy snowfall and even rain can all impact your TV reception. Tall trees swaying in the wind can create a screening effect, leading to fluctuations in reception quality. While wet leaves can also block your signal, leading to a distorted picture or loss of channels. While cutting back or removing trees is one option, moving your aerial to a higher position above nearby trees may also be worth considering; however, speaking to a professional TV aerial installation engineer is always recommended as they can identify exactly what may be blocking your signal and will advise the best solution.

When it comes to heavy rain or snowfall, unfortunately, there’s no option but to wait it out as rain and snow can both scatter radio signals and may lead to a drop in the quality of your TV reception.

High pressure

And it’s not just bad weather that can lead to poor TV reception; high air pressure, which brings sunny weather or morning fog, can also affect TV signals.

On a warm summer day, hot air can get trapped under colder air high up, creating a layer which acts like a mirror for television signals, reflecting them back towards Earth. This can cause signals from different transmitters to overlap and result in Freeview interference.

Unfortunately, TV broadcasters can’t prevent it, and adjusting your aerial won’t help, but your TV reception will return to normal once the weather changes.

Noticed new interference to your free to view TV? Check out our useful guides on potential causes of TV interference and what you can do to try and fix the problem.

However, there’s a small chance your TV interference is due to mobile signals, rather than the weather. We’re here to help; call us on 0808 13 13 800 (free from UK landlines and mobiles).