Dish Network FAQ - Dish Network Frequently Asked Questions
 
Welcome to the Dish Network FAQ frequently asked questions site. Here you will find the most common questions we receive about Dish Network satellite TV programming, service and equipment.
Note: If you already have Dish Network service and have problems, complaints or issues (parts, service, labor, warranty, etc.), please contact your subscriber directly. We do not address issues, handle complaints, or resolve problems on your behalf.
Just click on one or several of the questions below. If you are unable to find the answer to your question, please contact us with your question, and we will provide you with an answer.
1. Is Dish Network service available outside the United States?
2. Do you provide replacement satellite TV parts or equipment?
3. What is Dish Network?
4. Is the Dish Network system really FREE?
5. Where can I get a FREE Dish Network system?
6. Who would I get to install my Dish Network system?
7. How much does Dish Network service cost?
8. What programs does Dish Network offer?
9. Is Dish Network service available outside the United States?
10. Why are some sporting events "blacked out" in my area?
11. Why does Dish Network charge for local channels?
12. Can I paint the dish antenna so that it blends in with my house?
13. What can I do about snow and ice on my dish?
14. How do I pay my bill?
15. If something happens to my Dish Network system or I have a problem, who do I call?
16. My Home Owners Association will not allow satellite dishes, what can I do?
17. Why do I need a phone line connected to my receiver?
18. Can I use a wireless phone jack to connect my satellite receiver or DVR?
19. What is a waiver?
20. Does Dish Network offer adult programming?
21. Does Dish Dish Network offer international programming?
22. How can I purchase Pay-Per-View (PPV) movies or events if I do not have a phone line connected?
23. Can I order a movie package or locals without basic programming?
24. Can I substitute one channel for another in my basic package? I don't want to upgrade my basic package, but I want some of the channels that only come in those packages.
25. Does Dish Network offer programming in High-Definition (HDTV)?
26. Does Dish Network offer local digital channels in my area?
27. Is it possible to watch separate programming on two televeisions with the Dish Network system?
28. Can I switch from Direct TV to Dish Network services?
29. Can I get a HDTV receiver with my Dish Network system?
30. Do I need a credit card to subscribe to DISH Network?
31. Can I install the satellite dish indoors?
32. Does the Dish Network system require an access card?
33. I have trees in front of my dish. What can I do?
34. Does Dish Network provide Dolby Digital audio?
35. How can I lock out adult programming?
36. What is an access fee?
37. Does Dish Network provide internet access?
38. In which states is Dish Network service available?
39. Is Dish Network programming available in other languages?
40. What advantage does Dish Network have over cable?
41. Do you provide or handle customer service issues involving Dish Network?
42. Do you provide or handle technical support issues (parts, service, labor, warranty, etc.) involving Dish Network?
1. Is Dish Network service available outside the United States?
No. Dish Network service is not available outside of the United States from any retailer on this web site.
2. Do you provide replacement satellite TV parts or equipment?
No. We do not provide replacement satellite TV parts or equipment for Dish Network. Dish Network systems only come as a whole unit with a paid subscription.
3. What is Dish Network?
Dish Network was launched in December of 1995. It reached its first million customers at the end of 1997. Dish Network was first to offer two-way, high-speed Internet access via satellite through StartBand and the first Satellite TV system to offer over 500 channels of digital video, audio and data throughout the United States. The Dish Network offer is available in the U.S. only.
4. Is the Dish Network system really FREE?
Yes. You really do get FREE receivers and a satellite dish installed for FREE. Depending on the retailer, you must agree to a 1 or 2 year commitment to pay your monthly programming charges. Your credit card will be charged for the initial amount (depending on promotion). This initial charge covers activating your account. Dish Network equipment is actually leased and remains the property of Dish Network, and may be removed by them should you ever discontinue service.
5. Where can I get a FREE Dish Network system?
You can get a FREE Dish Network system from an online retailer at 1-Satellite-TV-Facts.com.
6. Who would I get to install my Dish Network system?
Some retailers will install your Dish Network system for free, provided you commit to 12 months of service. You may choose to install the system yourself, but you may void the warranty. Hence, a qualified professional technician from a Dish Network retailer is recommended to install your Dish Network system.
7. How much does Dish Network service cost?
Programming packages start at $29.99 per month up to $82.99 per month.
8. What programs does Dish Network offer?
Dish Network offers many programs from its packages. The program packages offered are as follows (click on the links below):
a. AllSat Satellite - Dish Network program guide
b. VMC Satellite - Dish Network program guide
c. iDishNetwork - Dish Network program guide
d. Dish Pronto - Dish Network program guide
e. BuyMyDish - Dish Network program guide
9. Is Dish Network service available outside the United States?
No. However, Dish Network does provide service to Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Areas outside the continental United States will usually need a larger dish to receive an adequate signal. The size of the dish may range from a 24 inch dish to a 1.5 meter dish depending on the location. The retailer will be able to determine the correct size dish needed in your area.
10. Why are some sporting events "blacked out" in my area?
Dish Network does not determine the blackout restrictions. Blackouts are the programming providers' method of enforcing contractual agreements with major professional sports teams and their respective leagues. The specific terms of these agreements vary from game to game. If a game is blacked out on one channel, such as ESPN, you may be able to view the game on another channel, such as a local network or your regional sports network.
11. Why does Dish Network charge for local channels?
Dish Network pays each affiliate for the rebroadcast rights. Since not all customers qualify to receive local networks, Dish Network cannot add the local channels to its basic packages. Cable companies do charge for the local networks. As all cable customers are able to receive local channels, the price is incorporated into the basic package price. To find out if Dish Network offers local channels in your area, click here (your cookies must be enabled).
12. Can I paint the dish antenna so that it blends in with my house?
Yes, you may paint it but it is not recommended. It may cause signal loss and void your warranty. If you do decide to paint your dish, you can use any color of paint that you choose. Do not get paint on the front cover of the LNBF (the white plastic cap that faces the dish), and avoid latex and metallic paints. It is also recommended that you use as few coats as possible as more paint will increase signal loss.
13. What can I do about snow and ice on my dish?
If you experience signal loss due to the accumulation of snow and ice on your dish, gently by hand or with a small broom, brush as much of the snow and ice off as possible. You may want to have an installer move the dish to a location where it can be easily reached. If this is not an option, there are several aftermarket products available that will reduce the amount of snow or ice buildup. There is the Hotshot dish or a Dish Cover.
14. How do I pay my bill?
Dish Network offers many convenient payment options to its customers. Depending on the retailer, you can pay by mail, credit card or have your payment deducted directly from your checking account.
15. If something happens to my Dish Network system or I have a problem, who do I call?
You would call the dealer who installed your system should you have any problems.
16. My Home Owners Association will not allow satellite dishes, what can I do?
The dish antenna size is 20 inches in diameter and complies with the Satellite Consumer Bill of Rights, a regulation issued by the FCC on August 6, 1996. This bill essentially stipulates that residential consumers have a right to install a satellite system on any residential establishment that they own, as long as it is entirely contained within their own, private residential area. This regulation preempts local zoning ordinances, such as Home Owner Association (HOA) covenants and restrictions regarding the installation and use of DBS dish antennas. This rule, among many others, was required by Congress in the Telecommunications Act. Some HOAs have been fighting to maintain restriction rights by threatening court action on tenants with dish antennas. In some cases, they have argued that a dish is installed in a common area (such as the air space above the homeowner's roof where the dish is installed) in order to disregard the provisions of the Satellite Consumer Bill of Rights. Congress is on your side in this manner, but your HOA may prove to be of greater influence after installation.
17. Why do I need a phone line connected to my receiver?
A phone line connection is required in order to provide non-interrupted programming. The phone line will not interfere with your telephone use. If the receiver is using the telephone line and someone picks up the telephone, the receiver will immediately stop and try again later. The same will be done if a call is received. The receiver will only use a toll free (800) number. Its primary purpose is to provide continuous access to DISH-On-Demand movies and events.
18. Can I use a wireless phone jack to connect my satellite receiver or DVR?
Yes. The wireless phone jack has been tested and approved by Dish Network for use with a Dish Network satellite receiver. You can also use the wireless phone jack to connect a Digital Video Recorder (TiVo, Replay TV). The wireless jack allows you turn any AC electrical wall outlet into a phone jack. Click here to get your wireless phone jack system for Dish Network.
19. What is a waiver?
A waiver is an authorization from the your local affiliates allowing Dish Network to transmit a distant signal into that local affiliate’s market. A waiver can be requested for a weak signal for obstructions such as hills, mountains, buildings and trees. Also, for an intact antenna with no viewable signal, or if the antenna is restricted.If your waiver requests are denied by your local affiliates, Dish Network will not be able to submit subsequent ones. Unfortunately, Dish Network is not given the reasons for approval or denial. If you feel their information is incorrect, and you cannot receive their network signals with an off-air antenna, you will need to contact your local affiliates.
20. Does Dish Network offer adult programming?
Yes. Dish Network currently offers the following 5 channels on a monthly subscription basis: Playboy (497), Hot Zone (493), EClips (494), TeN (495) and Extasy (496). These adult programs can be added to your basic package for an additional fee.
21. Does Dish Dish Network offer international programming?
Yes. Dish Network offers international programming. If you choose, you can purchase international programming services only. Along with the cost of the international programming, there is a $5.00 monthly charge. This is an administrative fee, as it does cost more to rebroadcast the international channels.If you want only international programming, then you will only need one dish pointed to either our 61.5 or 148 satellite locations. If you wish to add international programming to your American programming, you may require a second dish and additional equipment.
22. How can I purchase Pay-Per-View (PPV) movies or events if I do not have a phone line connected?
Dish Network provides several options for customers who do not have access to a phone jack including mobile service, telephone automated system (1-877-DISH-PPV or 1-877-347-4778), online or by calling customer service.
23. Can I order a movie package or locals without basic programming?
Yes. You can order premium movie packages or locals only and are not required to subscribe to a basic programming package such as America’s Top 180/120/60, DISH Latino, DISH Latino Dos, DISH Latino Max or Dominion Sky Angel programming.
24. Can I substitute one channel for another in my basic package? I don't want to upgrade my basic package, but I want some of the channels that only come in those packages.
No. Allowing customers to substitute channels or add a favorite channel to their package would force Dish Network to raise prices. Hence, Dish Network does not allow channel substitutions.
25. Does Dish Network offer programming in High-Definition (HDTV)?
Yes. Dish Network currently provides the Dish Network High Definition packages. This includes HDNET, HDNET Movies, ESPN HD, Discovery Theater and TNT HD for $9.99 per month or $109.89 annually (prices are subject to change).
26. Does Dish Network offer local digital channels in my area?
Click here to find out if local digital channels are available in your area (your cookies must be enabled).
27. Is it possible to watch separate programming on two televisions with the Dish Network system?
Yes. It is possible with our two new receivers, the DISH 322 and the DISH Player - DVR 522. At this time these receivers are only available through the Digital Home Advantage promotion for new customers.
28. Can I switch from Direct TV to Dish Network services?
Direct TV's equipment is not compatible with Dish Network services. Dish Network offers a wide variety of equipment, promotions and services. All Dish Network systems are sold with the DISH 500. The systems include true MPEG2 compression for the highest quality in audio and video providing CD quality sound and 100% digital video, parental lock-out features, and on-screen program guide and several other features that put these receivers at the cutting edge of the market.
29. Can I get a HDTV receiver with my Dish Network system?
Yes. You must have a television with a built in High Definition decoder or you must purchase an external decoder to attach to your television. To take advantage of High Definition Television (HDTV) programming, you must have a Model 6000 or a Model 5000 receiver. Some retailers include a free HDTV receiver with your Dish Network subscription.
30. Do I need a credit card to subscribe to DISH Network?
Some retailers may require you to have a credit card (or debit card) to subscribe for contractual purposes. Also, the retailer may require you to have the Dish Network account on the credit card in your name to prevent fraud.
31. Can I install the satellite dish indoors?
Yes. However, in order to receive the signal, the dish must have a direct line of sight to the south through a window. Also, many types of window glass will degrade the satellite signal. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that you install your satellite dish outside in a suitable location.
32. Does the Dish Network system require an access card?
Yes. The access card acts as a "pass key" for your system, giving you access to the Dish Network digital highway.
33. I have trees in front of my dish. What can I do?
If your system has been installed for a while and you lose signal during clear weather, you may have obstructions (trees, buildings, mountains, power lines, etc) causing interference with the satellite signal. If you cannot find a different location that provides a clear line of sight to the satellite, you may have to trim your trees. If necessary, you can re-install your dish up to 100 feet away from your house without adding any signal amplifiers.
34. Does Dish Network provide Dolby Digital audio?
Yes. Dish Network currently provides Dolby Digital audio on some pay-per-view channels and select movies on HBO, Starz and Showtime. The program has to be sent to us in Dolby Digital format for us to provide it in Dolby Digital. These channels may also show movies in their original letterbox format (LBX). To see if a program is in Dolby Digital, look for the "DD" symbol in your Electronic Program Guide (EPG). In order to take advantage of the higher quality of audio provided by Dolby Digital, you must have both a Dish Network receiver that supports Dolby Digital Audio and a Dolby Digital decoder (generally part of the surround sound system and known as a stereo receiver).
35. How can I lock out adult programming?
The Adult Guard feature gives you the capability to hide the Adult channels (Playboy, The Hot Zone, EClip, TeN, and Extasy) from your Electronic Program Guide (EPG) or lock them out. This prevents any children in the household from viewing the programming or accessing the program information.
36. What is an access fee?
The access fee is a $5.00 monthly fee applied to all accounts that do not subscribe to one of our basic programming packages (America's Top 180, Top 120, Top 60, DISH Latino Max, DISH Latino Dos, DISH Latino or Dominion Sky Angel). The costs we incur to deliver Specialty Programming are far greater than what we pay for our basic packages. This small monthly charge allows us to provide specialty programming at a reasonable price.
37. Does Dish Network provide internet access?
Yes. Dish Network provides fast satellite internet access through StartBand, that allows you to watch TV and surf the net at the same time. The StarBand / Dish Network satellite internet service requires a larger dish that is capable of receiving signals from 3 satellite orbital locations.
38. In which states is Dish Network service available?
Dish Network service is available in all 50 states, including Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
39. Is Dish Network programming available in other languages?
Yes. Dish Network has a range of foreign programming. There is a number of Latino channels and language services. Customers who do not subscribe to DISH Latino, DISH Latino Dos, DISH Latino Max, America's Top 60, America's Top 120 or America's Top 180 programming will be charged a $5.00 per month service access fee. There are also Arabic, Polish, Greek, Chinese, Russian, Korean, and Urdu language packages and South Asian television packages.
40. What advantage does Dish Network have over cable?
Dish Network offers superior programming, incredibly clear digitally delivered picture and sound that is far superior to today's cable systems. With Dish Network you can choose from over 256 great channels, plus get features and conveniences your cable does not have. Much of this you can get for less than you currently pay for cable service alone. Dish Network is also well known for its effective customer support, great value promotion and sales deals and being ranked #1 in Customer Satisfaction among Satellite/Cable Subscribers by J.D. Power and Associates.
41. Do you provide or handle customer service issues involving Dish Network?
No. We do not provide or handle any customer service issues involving Dish Network. You need to call your subscriber of Dish Network to handle any outstanding issues.
42. Do you provide or handle technical support issues (parts, service, labor, warranty, etc.) involving Dish Network?
No. We do not handle any technical support issues involving Dish Network. You need to contact your provider of Dish Network about any technical issues you may have.
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