Signal Quality Drops After Lightning or Storms
A thunderstorm rolls through, and the next day your satellite picture is worse than before. Lightning and storms damage satellite systems in predictable ways. Here is what to check.
What Lightning Does
Even without a direct strike, a nearby lightning bolt induces a voltage in the coax. This can destroy the LNB front end. Symptoms: sudden total signal loss, or one polarity/band dead.
What Storms Do Mechanically
High winds can move the dish, bend the pole, or snap the bracket. Rain can drive water into connectors. A branch may fall across the dish.
What to Check After a Storm
- Look at the dish — is it still pointing the right way?
- Check the LNB — is it still in the feed arm?
- Inspect the connectors for water or corrosion.
- Run a signal meter — strength present, quality zero suggests a dead LNB.
If the Dish Moved
Re-peak it. Most storm-damaged dishes just need a realignment — the mount held, the dish shifted a few degrees.
If the LNB Died
Replace it. Consider fitting a coaxial surge protector to reduce the chance of a repeat.
If the Cable Is Damaged
A branch or a fallen tile may have crushed the coax. Inspect the whole run.
Preventing Lightning Damage
- Fit a coaxial surge protector between dish and receiver.
- Disconnect the receiver during severe storms if you can.
- Ensure the dish and cable are properly earthed per local rules.
When to Call a Pro
If the pole or bracket is bent, or the dish has come off the wall, do not climb up in the wet. Wait for dry weather or hire help.
Storms test an install. Post-storm, walk outside first: look before you diagnose. Half the problems are visible to the naked eye.
