Satellite Myths/FAQ’s

Satellite TV is easily affected by trees or weather (rain, wind, snow):

This is not true! While the cable companies would like you to believe this, and have done everything they can thru creative advertising to perpetuate this myth. The truth is that when your dish is professionally installed, the weather or trees should almost never affect it. The satellite dish needs to have an unobstructed view of the Southwest sky. Our professional installers are very adept at finding the perfect spot to mount your dish. When properly mounted, your dish should only go out under extreme torrential downpour conditions - which are very rare. Even then, it will only go out for seconds to minutes at a time. Also, the standard, professional installation is free – and you will not be charged if the dish cannot be installed due to obstruction.

I can’t watch different channels in different rooms:

You can watch as many channels as you have receivers. And since many plans offer up to four receivers free, you can watch up to four TVs independently. Also, the exact same channel lineup, premiums, etc. are available on all receivers.

I have to pay an up-front fee for each satellite receiver:

Most packages offer up to four free receivers, including free HD-DVR, HD, and DVR!

I have to pay a monthly fee for each satellite receiver:

There are many plans to choose from, some in which you “lease” the equipment and pay a monthly fee for each receiver, and many plans in which there are no additional charges. This allows you to customize the best plan for your needs. Remember, with cable, you are also frequently charged for each set-top box, digital box – even remote controls.

Satellite TV systems cost a fortune to install:

Dish 1 Up Satellite offers free professional installation.

Satellite systems require frequent and expensive servicing:

DIRECTV® has great customer service departments available to you 24 hours a day. Many plans have warranties built-in to the package you choose. Others offer inexpensive extended warranty plans.

There’s little difference between cable company programming and DIRECTV®, so it’s not worth it to change:

Satellite TV systems offer more channels than cable systems. It’s particularly true if you want international programming or watch sports. Also, with satellite, you get 100% digital quality picture and sound across every single channel – cable TV can’t come close!

What if I move?

DIRECTV® offers free to low-cost moving programs nationwide. You just call the customer service line, give them your new address and schedule an installation appointment. Take your receivers with you and leave the old dish on the roof. We will professionally install your receivers and new dish anywhere in the US! You can frequently get free installation by signing a contract extension or agreeing to upgrade your programming package. If you choose not to do so, you may be required to pay a small, one-time fee.

Can I get my local channels?

Local channels are available for nearly every major market, and many smaller markets covering over 90% of the nation – and more markets are being added every month. Just call customer service at 1-800-DISH-1-UP to check for availability.

With Satellite, I have to pay for my locals, but with cable they’re free:

Actually, you pay for your local channels with satellite or cable TV.

Cable company pricing is cheaper than that of satellite TV:

Fact is that in most markets, satellite TV is cheaper when compared channel for channel. When you factor in the advantages of satellite TV which include 100%digital picture and sound clarity on ALL THE CHANNELS as well as international programming, exclusive sports programming packages, interactive TV guide, Digital Video Recorder availability, and the ability to get over 250 channels of programming if you so choose, there really is no comparison. In fact, studies have shown that less than 1% of people who choose satellite TV ever switch back to cable…. while upwards of 30% or more of cable TV subscribers in some markets switch over to satellite! Also, many cable companies have been none to have annual price hikes – sometimes even twice a year. Satellite TV has become known for pricing stability with prices “locked in” for years at a time with certain packages.