NBC Washington: Questions About—Recycling Televisions, Digital TV Signal, Complaints About DTV Coupons
Filed under: Earth911 - June 19, 2009
Ask Liz
Old Televisions
Q: Many viewers with old analog televisions decided to solve their DTV dilemma by upgrading to a new digital television. Some viewers want to know what’s the best way to recycle an old television?
A: Well this is an easy one, Recycle it. That way, valuable materials from the circuit boards, metal wiring, leaded glass, and plastics won’t end up in landfills. In the District, residents can recycle old TVs and other electronics at the Fort Totten Transfer Station or the Benning Road Transfer Station. For other areas, your best bet is to call your local household hazardous waste collection and recycling program. Earth911.com has a zip-code based search engine that can help you find recycling and re-use options in your community. Another great e-cycling website is MyGreenElectronics.org. And consider donating you set or other electronics that are in good working order. Keep in mind that some charitable organizations may no longer be accepting analog TVs so make sure you check before heading over.
Digital TV Signal
Q: Many viewers watching television with the help of an antenna and converter box want are having issues with their reception. Some viewers in our area want to know, How can I improve my Digital TV signal strength?
A: We turned to the FCC for this question. And it says, DTV reception can be affected by terrain, leaves on trees, buildings, the weather, even a fog can cause problems. You also need to remember that the type, location and orientation of the antenna plays a major role in DTV reception. The FCC says if you are having issues, try changing the location of the antenna you’re using now. Moving your antenna away from other objects and structures, or placing it higher, can often improve reception. Keep in mind that the performance of outdoor antennas can degrade over time due to exposure to the weather. And you might consider installing a signal booster, which should improve reception. The FCC says if you are having trouble receiving a broadcast. Check your connections, Perform a channel scan, adjust your antenna.
DTV Conversion Complaints
Q: Some viewers are wondering, which government agency is handling complaints about the Digital Television Transition?
A: If you have a questions or complaints about the DTV and reception, Contact the FCC at 1-888-CALL-FCC. Complaints about the Converter Box Coupon Program should be filed with the agency administering the coupon program, the National Telecommunications Information Administration, it’s part of the Department of Commerce and can be reached at NTIA.DOC.GOV or (202) 482-5802.
2 Responses to “NBC Washington: Questions About—Recycling Televisions, Digital TV Signal, Complaints About DTV Coupons”
I live in the country and some days the digital signals are fair but some days they are terrible and it doesn’t matter what the weather is. It was actually not too bad during an electrical storms recently. Some fair days I get no signals at for some stations. I considered Direct TV…..will that help me to get the local stations?? Some people I talk to say they need an antenna AND a booster along with their Direct TV to get local stations. I’ve tried getting cable but they are apparently over worked because I can’t get them out here.
The whole switch to digital TV was a bad decision and probably driven by money that we as the people will never see. Kind of like the TV channels I use to have and now no longer see. There is no cable on my road and can’t afford a dish so now I deal with digital signal, sometimes it works and sometimes only long enough to get involved in a movie and then lose signal. Thanks again to our government screwing us over!