When was the last time you watched TV? Nowadays, most use their television sets to stream their favorite Netflix shows on a larger screen.
In response, TV manufacturers made Smart TVs that have built-in streaming app support to facilitate this activity. However, you should be careful with the TV remote, or you won’t be able to use these features.
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If yours broke, here are some do-it-yourself ways to fix your TV remote. Note that these aren’t foolproof, so you might have to purchase a new one.
How to repair your TV remote
- Change the batteries
- Remove objects blocking the TV
- Reset the TV and remote
- Check the TV remote’s IR signal
1. Change the batteries
Depleted batteries are the most common issue in traditional and smart TV remote controls. However, they have different ways of testing energy content.
MakeUseOf says you can check your traditional TV remote by pressing the power button while pointing it at your TV. If its LED light indicator doesn’t blink, you probably need to change the batteries.
On the other hand, smart TVs typically display the TV remote battery status. Make sure you replace both batteries instead of only one so that they drain simultaneously.
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Also, check for corrosion marks on the battery contacts. If you see rust, wipe it before inserting your new batteries.
More importantly, clean the battery compartment thoroughly if the batteries leak fluid. Dispose of them properly as they are highly flammable!
2. Remove objects blocking the TV
You probably have multiple devices linked to your TV, especially if you’re using a conventional one. For example, you might link a Google Chromecast so that your old TV can stream Disney+.
Ensure nothing is between your TV remote and the television and then test the former again. If it still doesn’t work, clean the TV and the remote’s sensors.
Debris and dust might be preventing them from working. Wipe them every few days with a soft microfiber cloth.
3. Reset the TV and remote
You may also try the old method of turning your devices off and on again. First, turn off your TV and unplug it from the power outlet.
Then, turn the television back on and then look for the factory reset option in the Settings menu. The exact steps will depend on your TV brand and model, so check the instruction manual.
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You may also search online if you don’t have it anymore. Note that this method will wipe app downloads, Wi-Fi logins, and personalized settings, so you will have to set them up again.
4. Check the TV remote’s IR signal
If all else fails, check your remote’s infrared signal with your smartphone camera. Here’s how it works:
- Turn on your phone camera.
- Point it at your TV remote’s IR sensor.
- Then, press and hold any button on the remote control.
- Check if the remote emits light in the phone camera view. If you don’t, you probably need to replace your TV remote.
You may also take the device to your brand’s proprietary repair center. However, it might be easier if you purchased a new remote control.