Which way should my TV aerial point?
First identify a suitable transmitter for your address. Then use its compass bearing and polarisation to understand the direction and orientation your aerial needs.
Which way should a TV aerial point?
A TV aerial should point towards the transmitter that provides the most reliable Freeview coverage for your address, not automatically the nearest tower. Match the recommended compass bearing and horizontal or vertical polarisation, then make small adjustments while watching your television’s signal quality reading. Avoid working at height without suitable professional help.
How do you adjust a TV aerial?
To adjust a TV aerial, first identify the correct transmitter and its compass bearing and polarisation. From a safe position, point the aerial towards that bearing, match the horizontal or vertical orientation, then make small adjustments while watching the television’s signal quality. Do not work on a roof or near overhead cables.
Choose the source
Check the likely transmitter and alternatives for your full address before using a compass.
Find the direction
A bearing is measured clockwise from north. North is 0°, east 90°, south 180° and west 270°.
Confirm reception
Use your television’s signal quality display and received channels to judge the result.
Horizontal or vertical aerial?
Polarisation describes how the short receiving elements are orientated. Horizontal elements lie flat. Vertical elements stand upright. Match the polarisation specified for the transmitter rather than assuming every aerial in the area uses the same orientation.
Do not climb onto a roof or work at height. Use a qualified aerial installer for adjustments that cannot be made safely from the ground.
Using a phone compass accurately
- Move away from vehicles, steel frames, speakers and other metal objects that can disturb the compass.
- Calibrate the compass if your phone requests it.
- Stand near the aerial position when practical and safe.
- Use the transmitter bearing as a starting direction, not as proof of signal quality.
- Make small changes and allow the television’s quality reading time to respond.
A compass points you towards the transmitter. It does not measure the broadcast signal, diagnose damaged cable or account for every obstruction between the aerial and the mast.
Common alignment mistakes
Choosing only by distance
The nearest transmitter may not offer the best predicted reception or the same services.
Watching strength alone
Signal quality is usually more useful when diagnosing breakup and unstable reception.
Retuning too early
Retuning while reception is absent can remove working channels from the saved list.
How UK Aerial Helper can help
The iPhone app combines approximate main transmitter information with postcode or GPS location, a live compass and a bearing map. Sound and vibration feedback can help while you check direction. Always verify the result using your television and the conditions at the property.
TV aerial FAQs
What compass direction should my TV aerial point?
Use the compass bearing for the transmitter predicted to provide the most reliable reception at your address. The nearest transmitter is not automatically the best option, so compare coverage and polarisation before adjusting the aerial.
Should I point at the same transmitter as my neighbour?
It can be a useful clue, but it is not definitive. Check your own address and installation because line of sight and aerial systems can differ.
Can an indoor aerial use the same bearing?
Yes, but walls, windows, electrical equipment and room position can affect indoor reception. Try several safe positions while watching signal quality.
Does a perfect compass bearing guarantee reception?
No. The aerial, cable, connectors, local terrain, interference and transmitter coverage all affect the signal that reaches the television.
Related guides
Follow UK Aerial Helper on Google
If these guides are useful, you can add UK Aerial Helper as a Preferred Source in your Google Search settings.