Are you frustrated and wondering how to get local channels on Dish? First things first, it’s important to understand that TV networks get into contract disputes.
When this happens some channels may simply vanish from Dish Network, including local networks.
There are some ways to still get local channels back on Dish, such as using a TV antenna, a network website, Paramount+, and the News On. You may also need to unlock local channels on VIP receiver or fix wiring or cable faults.
Losing your local channels is quite frustrating. Most of these channels are affiliated with the sports, entertainment, and news industry.
Read on to learn how you can get your local channels back on your Dish.
Why You Don’t Have Local Channels on Your Dish
Dish Network is one of the best TV service providers out there. This service provider offers different programming packages that contain up to 290 channels.
However, sometimes, you don’t get your favorite local channels on Dish. Here are some possible reasons why the Dish Network is not offering local channels, such as:
1. Programming Contract Disputes
As mentioned earlier, TV service providers lose local channels as a result of contract disputes.
These are commonly caused when the local channels demand more money for broadcasting, and the TV providers refuse to pay the asked amount.
2. Technical Glitches
Sometimes you lose your local channels to a technical problem caused by receiver errors or misconfigured program guides.
3. Electronic Programming Guides Errors
The EPG allows you to scan stations and programs available on a given network. If your EPG has errors, it might affect some local channels.
It’s also possible that you have accidentally unsubscribed to local channels on your Dish.
Now that you know the most common reasons why you are not getting local networks, it’s time to learn how to receive local channels on Dish:
How to Get Local Networks on Dish – Methods
Before you try to get local networks on Dish, it’s best to ensure that your Dish is connected properly. If there are no channels at all, you might need to run a quick Dish Network troubleshooter.
Once you are confident that your Dish is working properly, you can use these methods to get your local channels on Dish:
Method #1 Set Up TV Antenna
If you are not getting any local channels due to a contract dispute, an indoor or outdoor TV antenna is the best option for you.
There are several pros and cons of using a TV antenna with your Dish.
For instance, you can get free access to all of your local channels, including Univision, PBS, NBS, Fox, CBS, and ABC.
It’s hard to believe, but TV antennas can provide better HD pictures compared to satellite and cable.
To set up OTA Antenna with Dish network, follow these steps:
- Press the “MENU” button on the remote control
- Select “System Setup”
- Click on “Local Channels”
- Press “Scan Locals”
Once the scanning process starts, it will take up to 5 minutes to complete. When the scan is complete, an “Attention 732” pop-up will appear, click OK and enjoy your local channels.
TIP: The indoor TV antennas can pick up signals from over 75 miles that can offer you more local channels.
Method #2 Check Out Electronic Programming Guides
Follow the following step to resolve Electronic Programming Guides’ error:
- Turn your TV ON
- Press the “Guide” button on your remote control
- Click the “Option” button
- Select “All Subscribed,” and Enjoy
Once you click on “Guide,” it will show you all the subscribed local channels. If that doesn’t happen, you have to click the “Option” button on the remote control.
It will show you numerous options, such as all unsubscribed, appearance, favorites, and more. You have to pick subscribe all to get local channels on Dish.
NOTE: If there is an EPG error, you don’t need a TV antenna; you can resolve this issue through your remote.
Method #3 Check the Wiring and Cables
Sometimes, there is a problem with cables and wirings. Due to these hardware problems, you get a “Dish Local Network Channels Not Working” error.
In this scenario, your device does not connect with the satellite receiver causing a receiver error.
If that’s the case, you need to check the wiring of your dish as well as the “Coaxial Cable.”
A coaxial cable is the one that is connected to the wall from the back of the receiver. You can detach and reattach the cables and wires to see if they are properly working.
Method #4 Unlock Local Channels on ViP Receivers
If you have Dish Network as well as a ViP receiver, you can unlock your missing channels by using the following steps:
- Turn your TV On
- Click the “Guide” button on your remote control
- Select “Current List”
- If there is no “My Channel” option, press the “Guide” button multiple times until you see “My Channel”
- Select your “Programming Packages” then reset your “Dish receiver”
Remove your “Dish receiver” from the electric outlet for about 10 seconds and plug it back in. On average, the dish receiver takes up to 5 minutes to reinitialize. Once it’s done, you will see all your local channels.
Method #5 Use Website and Applications
This should be the last resort. If none of the above-mentioned approaches are effective in your case, you can use this method to get local channels on your Dish.
Most local channels are now broadcasting on their website. For instance, KHOU-TV, a channel associated with the Houston Market, offers their news live for free on their websites.
Just like this, many other famous channels also broadcast their programs on the website that you can access for free.
You can use streaming apps which contain most of your local channels, including ABC, CBS, and more. For example, if you are a CBS fan, you can get Paramount+.
This streaming service offers on-demand programming networks as well as local CBS channels. In addition, for your entertainment, this one also offers unlimited numbers of movies and TV shows from other sources.
NOTE: Dish Network also allows you to get streaming apps, such as News On. With a streaming app, you get to watch both on-demand and live channels.
Local Channels Still Not Working on Dish
So, you have followed all the above-mentioned methods but still not getting any local channels – what should you do?
In that scenario, it’s time to contact Dish Helpline and ask for their assistance. If there is a contract dispute, you won’t be able to get local channels by talking to them. You’ll need to use the channel’s website or a streaming application. If it’s programming or technical error, they will solve the problem for you.
Read Next: How to Keep Snow off your Satellite Dish Easily?
Conclusion
The Dish Network is one of the most popular TV service providers out there.
However, due to their disputes with local networks or programming errors, sometimes you don’t get important local channels on your Dish network.
To help you out in this regard, above, we have provided a step-by-step guide on how to get local channels on Dish. With this detailed guide, we are sure you’ll never miss any local channel on your Dish network again.
Happy viewing!
Kevin has over five years of experience working in various Tech startups and providing Technical solutions. He has contributed to many Tech publications and websites. Check out more about him here.