Satellite TV and installation in a rental property

Let’s face it, not everyone owns their own home, condo or apartment and a lot of people rent a property from a landlord. Some landlords are good and others aren’t so it helps to know what your rights are when enquiring about installing satellite TV equipment in a place you rent.

Fortunately the FCC is partly on your side and the rules permit residents of rental properties to install a satellite dish in areas that are subject to the renter’s exclusive use and control. In basic terms this means areas that you have access to, and the use of, and no-one else in the building does. For example, patios, balconies, yards, decks or similar areas.

If you are in any doubt the consult the FCC website or speak with representatives at some of the satellite TV retailers such as Dish Pronto or VMC Satellite.

I’d like satellite TV adult programming but can I also block it?

Dish Network offers a variety of satellite TV adult programming and the good news is that you don’t have to risk your children seeing it by accident. Through the use of the Adult Guard (Parental System Locks) you can restrict the ability to view certain channels only once the password has been entered.

The Parental System Locks are easy to operate and for Dish Network subscribers it’s just a matter of pressing the MENU button on the remote, selecting LOCKS, choosing the necessary locks and finally setting a password. It goes without saying that you shouldn’t really keep the password details in a place that your children might see!

Satellite TV or Cable TV – Which is better?

The question of satellite TV or cable TV is one of those questions that does have a correct answer, unlike many of the which is better type questions. In case the answer isn’t obvious, listed below are some of the reasons why satellite TV is by far and away the superior pay TV option.

Better television quality via satellite

Put simply, there is no snow. Reception from satellite TV is more consistent and a better quality picture because it doesn’t have any of the fuzziness cabler subscribers are familiar with. What movies in near cinema quality or follow your favorite sport and not worry about straining to see all the action through the fuzzy picture.

More programming options with satellite TV

This point is very difficult for cable companies to argue against. Satellite TV networks are currently offering over 200 channels and more in high definition as well.

Free satellite TV equipment

The satellite TV retailers (VMC Satellite and Dish Pronto are two examples) offer a number of great promotions that include free satellite receivers for 1-4 rooms. there are no hefty upfront costs just to join the satellite TV revolution. Even better is that they also include a free DVR (digital video recorder) unlike the cable companies where you normally have to pay for this equipment.

Better service all around from satellite companies

Studies by independent sources show the customer satisfaction with the satellite TV companies is higher than with the cable companies. This might partly be due to them no needing to call as often because the satellite TV service is more reliable and doesn’t suffer the high percentage of outages that cable services are known to have.

Satellite TV is less expensive than cable

Satellite TV programming packages are often less expensive than the equivalent cable TV packages. This includes the fact you get the satellite TV receivers for free. For example, Dish Network retailers are offering 1-4 rooms plus a DVR for free when signing up for a 24 month plan. No high upfront costs to then realize you aren’t happy with the service.

Overall, millions have signed up for satellite TV and as more and more do the same, the programming choices will only increase. And who wants to be sitting around watching the big game with one minute to go and the signal is lost. Cable users know what that is like and only dream of what the satellite TV users are enjoying.

How many satellite TV receivers can I have?

When signing up with the Dish Network through VMC Satellite you can have up to six TVs on the one account. The good thing is that the first four are installed for FREE. Any receivers over four are subject to additional costs as extra switching equipment is required in addition to the cost of the extra receivers.

Nothing else is changed and you can still watch different channels on each TV. Yes, all six members of your family can be watching what they like, even if no-one else like it.

Digital transition in February 2009 – What you need to do

Many people might be confused over what the transition to digital means to their viewing habits. Firstly, let’s explain what is happening. On 17 February 2009 at midnight, all full power television stations in the United States will cease broadcasting in analog and switch to a 100% digital broadcast system. The advantages being a clearer picture and more programming options. Not sure how much of the decision was based on the fact it will also free up more of the airwaves for emergency use.

Basically it means analog television sets using an antenna to receive the free TV channels will not longer work after February 17. If you are in this group then there are a few options you will need to consider.

Because there is an expected rush on satellite TV signups between now and the shutdown date, act now to ensure you have everything in place before 17 February.

VMC Satellite America’s Top 100 Satellite TV Package

The America’s Top 100 satellite tv package from industry leader VMC Satellite is a great package designed to meet the basic needs of most families. A great range of arts and entertainment, documentary, news and kid’s programming, and let’s not forget the all important sports and music channels. You get the best of the best with multiple ESPN channels for sport and MTV, MTV2 and VH1 for all your music fixes.

At only $32.99 for 1-2 TVs and $37.99 for 3-4 TVs you won’t be disappointed. Add just $7 to either package and you receive a 2 room DVR system. This is the Dish DVR Advantage 100 package. I other words $39.99 or $44.99 depending on how many TVs you have.

Check all the details for yourself at VMC Satellite or browse through the channels below

Why wait? Sign up at VMC Satellite and you can be watching the best in no time.