Since its inception, some users have reported that Hulu keeps freezing on TV.
Although the streaming service runs on a stable platform, there are scenarios where certain issues can occur.
Generally, the issue might result from a poor internet connection, outdated Hulu software, browser cache issues, or streaming device malfunction. You can resolve it by resetting your internet connection, updating your streaming software, or reducing the number of accounts logged in.
I’ll be taking you through an in-depth look into the possible reasons for the failure.
We will also look into some troubleshooting procedures to regain your normal viewing.
This is whether the freezing keeps occurring in the middle of a content streaming session or when you first launch a new stream.
How To Fix Hulu Keeps Freezing On TV?
Before implementing any of the recommended troubleshooting procedures, you should try restarting your TV or streaming device.
This usually resolves most bugs caused by minor software glitches.
As hinted, there are several reasons why Hulu keeps freezing on smart TV. The main issues include:
- You’re running Hulu on a slow internet connection.
- Your router is malfunctioning, causing a glitch in the internet connection.
- The Hulu version you’re streaming on could be malfunctioning
- Your streaming device firmware is outdated.
Let’s now look into possible troubleshooting procedures.
Solution #1: Perform A Complete Power Cycle
Power-cycling your streaming equipment is a great way to refresh your connection.
It fixes any temporary bugs by restoring your system to default settings. If the Freezing on Hulu persists, power down your devices, then reboot them.
To perform a power cycle:
- Power down the TV you’re watching Hulu on.
- Turn off the modem and router.
- Unplug and disconnect your streaming device from the power source.
- Wait 2-5 minutes, then power your devices.
Try streaming with Hulu again. If the freezing was a temporal bug, it should now be fixed.
Solution #2: Test Your Internet Connection
All streaming services, Hulu included, require a reliable internet connection to work as intended.
Videos are available cross-platform in various qualities based on your internet connection and the device you are streaming on.
Hulu adjusts content streaming quality based on these factors.
A poor connection results in quirks such as video quality depreciation, dimming, and the freezing you are experiencing.
To find out if this is the cause of the problem, you can test your connection and reset it if it appears to be the problem.
Performing a Speed Test
There are multiple ways to perform a speed test. They include:
- Run the stock speed test apps on your smart TV or casting device.
- Run a speed test from your regular browser using another device.
- After getting the average data rate, you can compare this to Hulu’s recommended speeds.
For a consistent, high-quality streaming experience, Hulu recommends you use an internet connection capable of achieving the following download speeds sustainably:
- 16.0+ Mb/s for 4k content.
- 8.0 Mbps to stream live.
- 3.0 Mbps for streaming from Hulu’s library.
Note: Other activities involving bandwidth use may disrupt your streaming quality on Hulu, resulting in freezing.
Improving Your Internet Connection
You can take the following steps to try and improve your internet connection:
- Power off or disconnect all devices connected to the same network as your smart TV.
- Close the apps and channels running in the background.
- Hardwire your smart TV or casting device to the router using an ethernet cable.
- Move the router/modem closer to your streaming device and TV.
Note: You can change your settings to stream content at a reduced video quality with as little as a 1.5 Mbps connection.
Unless you ascertain that you’re getting the best data rate and that your internet signal is reliable, you will keep experiencing issues with Hulu freezing.
Solution #3: Update Hulu On Your TV or Streaming Device
With each update, Hulu provides functionality, new features, and fixes for bugs that have been noticed in previous Hulu releases.
In case you are running an outdated version of Hulu, you might still be facing issues that have already been fixed in the latest release, such as freezing.
Ensure you perform regular software updates depending on the device you are using to stream Hulu from.
You can update Hulu by searching for it in your device’s app store. If an update is available, click install or update.
Note: You can try uninstalling and installing Hulu from your smart TV or streaming stick. This automatically brings you the latest available update.
Solution #4: Update Your Streaming Device Firmware
With the many platforms already offering Hulu casting at the moment, the problem might result from your streaming device’s side and not necessarily from Hulu or your smart TV.
Ensure you are running Hulu on a smart TV connected to a casting device with the latest software updates.
This enables Hulu streaming capabilities to be maximized while fully utilizing the features of your streaming device.
If on Roku
You can carry out a software update using these simple steps:
- Hold the Home button on your Roku TV remote.
- Click on Settings and go-to system.
- From the system menu, select System update.
- Click on the update now option. The device will initiate the update.
If on Chromecast
The following simple steps should take you through the update:
- Install the Google Home app on Android or iOS devices.
- Power on your Chromecast device and connect it to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Launch the app and locate your device. Tap the device icon for a complete overview.
- Tap the Gear for the settings menu.
- Tap the three horizontal dots. Click Reboot.
- The Chromecast device downloads the latest firmware during the reboot.
Note: The update software option will be found in the device settings menu or software information page of whatever platform you are streaming.
Solution #5: Reduce Account Users
Hulu allows its subscribers access to its services on a maximum of two devices simultaneously with the same account.
This implies that only two people can use the account at the same time.
In the event that a third device logs into your Hulu account, all ongoing streams will be affected. This includes the one on your smart TV. This presents itself as freezing or crashing.
If you’re unsure of who’s using your account, you can kick out all other users from the account for certainty.
To do this:
- Open the Hulu website on any device.
- Click on Account> Manage devices.
- Locate the unknown device and tap Remove.
To kick everyone out:
- Go to Account.
- Click on Protect Your Account.
- Select Log out of all devices.
Note: To change your password navigate to account> Change Password and save your new settings.
Solution #6: Download Your Shows and Watch Offline
If all else fails, you can resort to downloading the shows you want to watch. However, this comes with some prerequisites, such as:
- You should be subscribed to the No Ads or No Ads + Live TV plan.
- The show you want has to allow downloads.
- You can only download shows on an Android, Amazon Fire, or iOS device.
- You should have the Hulu app installed on your device.
To download your shows:
- Launch the Hulu app on your phone.
- Tap on downloads to see the shows available for download.
- Tap on the show you want to be downloaded.
- Browse through the episodes and tap the download icon.
Note: The download button changes to a checkmark when a download is complete.
Read Next: How to Fix Hulu Error Code P-EDU101?
Conclusion
We’ve looked in-depth into quick fixes if Hulu keeps freezing on TV. I believe you can now successfully carry out the procedures and have your Hulu running smoothly in no time.
If none of the solutions we’ve discussed resolves the problem for you, reach out to Hulu support.
They will be able to offer you personalized care on an expert level.
Finn Wheatley holds a Master’s Degree in Computer Science from UCL, London. He helped small data science consultancy firms, helping large corporations to grow their data capabilities, deploy advanced machine learning-based analytics and troubleshoot tech-related issues. Check out more about him here.