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TV black screen or snowy screen
By the Repair.com team
Let's fix this!
You settle in to watch shows, but what do you see on TV? Black screen? Snowy screen? Not very entertaining. In order to regain TV picture, you need to first figure out what’s going on. Check this chart to learn about possible causes and what you may be able to do to correct your picture.
|
Possible causes |
Signs to look for |
What to do |
|---|---|---|
Malfunctioning set-top box |
Has it been a while since you last rebooted your set-top box? |
Your set-top box may just need a simple reboot.
|
Disconnected cable |
Are any of the set-top box cables disconnected? |
Check that each connection is intact, and tighten the connections with your fingers:
|
Missed bill payment |
Do you see a snowy or black screen only when you try to watch TV? |
Check your cable/satellite accounts, and pay any outstanding bills. |
TV station technical difficulties |
Is a single channel showing a black screen or snow? |
Watch another channel for now. If no other station is showing black or snow, that particular TV station may be experiencing temporary technical issues. |
TV not set to the correct channel |
Is the TV screen snowy? |
Set your TV to channel 3. If that doesn't work, try channels 2 or 4. The input channel can vary per area. |
Incorrect mode on the cable or satellite remote control |
Press any key on the remote; does the wrong mode light up? |
Press the correct mode’s button to regain control and change channels.
Dropping or sitting on the remote can change your mode and get you stuck on a channel without programming. |
Cable outage |
Are all channels on TV black or snowy? |
Call your cable company to confirm a cable outage. |
Backlighting system failed |
Do you have sound but no picture? |
A part within the backlight system likely needs to be replaced. Arrange for a TV repair professional to examine your set. Find more information on backlight failure and how it can affect your TV picture. |
Capacitors are malfunctioning |
|
You likely need replacement capacitors or a new power board. Professional TV repair service is recommended. |
Excessive or shorted voltage |
Do you hear a chirping sound? |
Chirping means the shutdown circuit is activating, indicating a problem with the power supply. You'll need the help of a qualified repair professional. |
Still seeking a solution? Schedule TV repair service with a qualified professional.
Did you know? A TV screen that has gone black is nicknamed the “black screen of death”!
Service pro's plea: If in doubt, stay out. Don't risk causing more damage to your product (or yourself!) by attempting to fix it on your own. It's also easier and quicker for a service technician to diagnose and fix a problem when the product is assembled. In the end, you'll save time and money.
✓ Reviewed and approved by Repair.com expert Greg Roth, general manager, Roth’s.
The Repair.com team
The Repair.com team is made up of experienced writers, editors and repair experts dedicated to providing you with the most reliable and comprehensive information about keeping your home running right.