Digital TV Antenna Guide
Receive free over-the-air HD channels with a one-time antenna purchase. No monthly TV bill.
Free local NBC/CBS/ABC/FOX/PBS where signal allows, one antenna purchase, no live TV streaming bill.
How to set up Digital TV Antenna Guide
Free local NBC/CBS/ABC/FOX/PBS where signal allows, one antenna purchase, no live TV streaming bill.
- Time
- 30–60 min
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Verified
- 2026-06-22
Before you start
- Check signal at fcc.gov/media/engineering/dtvmaps or antennaweb.org
- Indoor vs attic vs roof mount decision
- TV with coax input or tuner
Map your towers
Enter address on AntennaWeb, note VHF vs UHF needs. Buy antenna rated for your band mix.
Start indoor near window
Cheap flat antenna aimed at towers. Scan channels on TV. If major networks appear clear, stop spending.
Upgrade placement if needed
Move higher/nearer exterior wall. If still weak, attic or outdoor mast, follow landlord rules if renting.
Run channel scan
TV Settings → Channel scan → Antenna. Label channels favorites for household.
Optional DVR
HDHomeRun or AirTV if you want pause/live, hardware once, no monthly live TV bundle.
Troubleshooting
- Zero channels
- Amplifier might overload strong signal, try unpowered antenna. Repoint.
- Pixelation
- Coax loose; amplifier noise; try without splitter.
- Rural valley
- OTA may not work, honest limit; library streaming stack instead.
Keep it working
- Rescan after tower changes
- Secure outdoor mount before storm season
- Pair with library Kanopy/Hoopla for gaps
Official docs: www.antennaweb.org/
Browse related categories
Best for
- Local news and sports
- One-time hardware buy
- Rural areas with OTA signal
Can replace
Live TV streaming subscriptions, Cable
Caveats
- Channel lineup depends on geography and obstacles; rural valleys may struggle.
- Areas with weak OTA coverage
- Premium cable-only show fans
Related finds in the directory
Pluto TV
Paramount-owned free TV with hundreds of live curated channels plus on-demand movies.
Replaces: Live TV streaming bundles, Cable
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