Common Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a Satellite Dish on an RV

The modern recreational vehicle (RV) has made road trips enjoyable, thanks to the many amenities they come with. Today, you will find RVs equipped with the latest kitchen appliances and relatively comfortable bedding. However, the ability to keep up with your local television programming sets modern RVs apart from traditional models. All you have to do is install a satellite dish to capture signals and transform them into images. While you do not have to be an expert to install a satellite dish on an RV, you must avoid certain mistakes, some of which are highlighted in this post.

Failure to Seal Fastener Points

Installing anything on the roof of an RV exposes it to winds strong enough to reap it away. Thus, you must secure an RV satellite dish using bolts and nuts or screws. Since the fasteners must go through an RV roof, they increase the risk of leaks during wet seasons. In this regard, seal fastener points using silicone or molten rubber. The sealant covers any space around fasteners that might allow water or moisture into an RV. The sealant also prevents premature corrosion from moisture, which goes a long way in keeping a satellite dish steady for longer.

Failure to Locate Internal Utilities

Another mistake you should avoid is drilling an RV roof without finding out what lies underneath. As mentioned earlier, modern RVs are very comfortable; thus, you should expect utilities such as electric cables and vents running across the roof. Blindly installing a satellite dish risks damaging such utilities, possibly cutting your road trip short. Therefore, it is advisable to find out what is beneath a prospective satellite dish installation spot. The best location to install a satellite dish should be free of electricity cables or air conditioning vents since they can complicate the installation process.

Installing a Satellite Dish Close to Roof Hatches

The best satellite dish model automatically searches for signals by rotating on an RV roof. The devices eliminate the need to climb to the roof to adjust a satellite's direction every time you lose a signal. However, automatic satellite dishes need enough space around them to rotate fully. If you install one close to the roof hatch or air conditioning unit, the chances are high that the dish might not make a complete rotation. Therefore, place a satellite dish on an RV roof and estimate the amount of space it takes to rotate before installation. The area with the least obstacles is the ideal installation spot.

If you need help installing a satellite, including a SatKing satellite, talk to a professional in your area. 

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