To get Freeview on your TV, you need a TV with a built-in Freeview tuner or a separate Freeview box, plus a working TV aerial connected to it. Most TVs sold in the UK already have Freeview built in, so for many homes it is simply a case of plugging in the aerial and tuning.
This guide covers what you need, how to set up a Freeview TV, how to connect a Freeview box to your TV and what to do if no channels appear.
- Freeview installation and repair.
- TV aerial fitting and realignment.
- Extra TV points for any room.
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What You Need to Get Freeview
Freeview is free to watch, with no monthly subscription. You still need a TV licence to watch live TV, and you need the right equipment.
Check the back of your TV or the manual for a Freeview or Freeview Play logo. If your TV does not have a Freeview tuner, a Freeview box or recorder plugged into the TV does the same job.
How to Set Up Freeview on a Freeview TV
- Plug In the AerialConnect the aerial lead from the wall socket to the TV's aerial input, usually marked RF In, ANT In or Aerial In.
- Switch On the TVPlug in the TV, put batteries in the remote and switch on. A new TV usually starts its setup guide automatically.
- Connect to BroadbandIf you have a Freeview Play TV, have your Wi-Fi name and password ready so catch-up apps work.
- Run the Channel ScanChoose an automatic channel scan or tune. It usually takes a few minutes and finds every channel your aerial can receive.
- Start WatchingOnce the scan finishes, the channels are saved. On a Freeview HD TV, the HD channels start with BBC One HD on channel 101.
How to Connect a Freeview Box to Your TV
If your TV does not have Freeview built in, or you want to record programmes, a Freeview box or recorder is the answer.
- Connect the Aerial to the BoxPlug the aerial lead into the box's aerial socket, marked RF In, ANT In or Aerial In.
- Connect the Box to the TVUse an HDMI lead from the box's HDMI output to an HDMI input on the TV. HDMI leads are not always in the box, but are easy to buy.
- Power UpPlug in the box and switch on the TV. Use the TV remote to select the HDMI input the box is connected to.
- Tune the BoxFollow the box's setup guide and let it scan for channels. Most boxes tune automatically.
- Use the Box RemoteOnce tuned, use the Freeview box remote to change channel and record.
Older TVs without an HDMI socket may need a box with a SCART output or an RF modulator. If a new box will not tune properly, check the retailer's returns policy, as it may be faulty.
No Freeview Channels or No Signal?
If the scan finds no channels, or the picture keeps breaking up, the problem is usually the aerial or the cable rather than the TV.
Check the Lead
Make sure the aerial lead is pushed in firmly at both ends and is in the right socket.
Retune
Run a full retune. Channels sometimes move after transmitter changes.
Check Your Transmitter
Use our TV transmitter postcode checker to see which transmitter serves you.
Get the Aerial Tested
An old, damaged or misaligned aerial is the most common cause of poor Freeview reception.
Can You Get Freeview Without an Aerial?
Live Freeview channels through a TV's built-in tuner need an aerial. A loft or indoor aerial can work where the signal is strong, but most homes get the best results from an outdoor aerial.
Some newer smart TVs support Freely, which streams live channels over broadband instead. Catch-up and on-demand apps also work without an aerial, but they need a steady broadband connection and use your data allowance.
If you need a new aerial or your current one is not giving a good signal, our Freeview installation engineers can test it and fit, realign or replace it.
Still Can't Get Freeview?
Mike Harris Aerial & Satellite installs and repairs TV aerials and Freeview systems, adds extra TV points and retunes TVs. Call for a free quote, or send a photo of your aerial and TV setup by WhatsApp.
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Freeview FAQs
How do I get Freeview on my TV?
Connect a working aerial to a TV with Freeview built in, or to a Freeview box plugged into your TV, then run an automatic channel scan. Most TVs sold in the UK have Freeview built in.
How do I connect a Freeview box to my TV?
Plug the aerial lead into the box's RF In socket, connect the box to the TV with an HDMI lead, switch on, select the right HDMI input on the TV and follow the box's setup guide to tune.
Do I need an aerial for Freeview?
Yes, to watch live Freeview channels through a TV or box tuner. Freely, available on some newer smart TVs, streams live channels over broadband instead of using an aerial.
Why does my TV say no signal on Freeview?
Check the aerial lead is connected to the right socket, select the correct input and retune. If that does not help, the aerial or cable is likely to be at fault and should be tested.
How do I retune Freeview?
Go to the TV or box settings menu, find the channel setup or installation option and choose a full or automatic retune. The exact menu names vary by manufacturer.
Is Freeview free?
Yes. There is no subscription, but you need a TV licence to watch or record live TV or to use BBC iPlayer.
What channel number is BBC One HD on Freeview?
BBC One HD is on channel 101 on Freeview HD TVs and boxes.
Can you install Freeview for me?
Yes. Mike Harris Aerial & Satellite installs and repairs aerials, sets up Freeview and adds extra TV points. Call 0800 470 2406 for a free quote.
