DirecTV Satellites

• At the time of publication, DirecTV uses seven satellites to provide service to the United States. They orbit in the same speed and direction as the Earth's rotation, keeping them stable at specific longitudinal coordinates. They hover at 72.5, 77, 95, 101, 103, 110 and 119 degrees West longitude. The microwave signals they transmit are not affected by temperature, but can be reduced in strength by rain, snow or hail. A severe thunderstorm may contain enough precipitation to block the signal completely, regardless of the temperature.
  
  

Snow and Ice

• Temperature does not affect a dish, but snow can block the signal.Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
  
  Because satellites orbit the Earth above the equator, the farther north you install a dish, the lower the angle needed to correctly align the dish. This may work to the advantage of viewers who live in the colder climates of the United States. You can install a DirecTV dish on a covered porch or balcony to prevent snow accumulation as long as the roof itself or the supporting posts aren't in line with the signal coming from the satellite. Sub zero weather, as long as no ice forms on the dish, will have no affect on the signal.
  
  

Light Rain

• Because light rain reduces satellite signals, a dish not aligned directly at a satellite for the maximum receive signal may fade to such a low level that the system doesn't work. The systems are designed to work in light rain with proper alignment. If your system fails for lack of a signal only during light rain, check the signal level from the satellite. See your receiver user's manual. The signal should be between 70 and 100 on the meter. If not, call DirecTV customer service to realign your dish.
  
  

Protection

• For colder climates, some manufacturers produce a cover you can place over a DirecTV dish that will collect the snow and prevent ice from forming. When a storm is predicted, install the cover; after the storm subsides, remove it along with the snow. You may also spray the dish with an automotive windshield de-icing fluid or a light film of cooking oil to prevent ice formation. Some manufacturers produce a heater you can install on a dish to prevent ice and snow accumulation.