Dish Remote Not Working

The most common reason why a dish remote control is not working are the batteries. Typically, batteries should be changed about every 6 months, but it depends a lot on usage. Make sure you install them correctly with the + and – symbols aligning with the corresponding symbol on the remote. If that doesn’t work, make sure no button are sticking. A stuck button can make the remote become unresponsive.

Next, check the input setting on the remote control. Many Dish remotes can control multiple electronic devices at once. Make sure the correct function button is pressed to control your TV or receiver and not a DVD player or some other device.

If the issue isn’t the batteries or the function setting, your Dish remote problem could be the receiver. Check to make sure the wires in the back are all properly connected to the TV. If that doesn’t work, try resetting it. To do it, turn the receiver off, unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. Once the receiver powers on, try your remote again.

Next, make sure the controller is paired with the receiver you’re using it on. It’s easy to get confused if you have multiple Dish remotes in the same house.

Finally, make sure there’s nothing in between the remote and the TV’s or receiver’s IR sensor. If something is blocking the signal between the Dish remote and the IR sensor, the remote won’t work.

If all else fails, contact Dish support. You may need a new receiver or remote control.

How To Fix A Dish Remote That’s Not Working

The best way to fix a Dish remote control that’s not working depends on the problem. A bit of troubleshooting is necessary to find out what the issue is before you try a solution. The most common problems are the batteries, the function mode key, pairing the remote, a receiver issue, and something blocking the remote’s IR signal.

Replace the Batteries

If your Dish remote is unresponsive, it might be due to weak or improperly inserted batteries. Remove the battery cover and check the battery alignment. Make sure the + and – symbols on the battery match the symbols on the remote. If the batteries are low, replace them with two new AAAs. Avoid using rechargeable batteries because they lose capacity over time.

On average, batteries in a Dish remote last about 6 months. However, it depends a lot on how often you use them.

Function Mode Key

Dish remotes are usually universal and can control multiple devices. Make sure the remote is in the right mode for controlling your TV. Press the “TV” button to switch to TV mode and see if it resolves the issue.

Pair the Remote

If your remote has lost pairing with your TV, it won’t work. You’ll have to re-establish the pairing process to get it working again. Most Dish remotes pair automatically, but if a code is needed, find it in the user manual. For Dish 40.0/50.0/52.0/54.0 remotes, press “System Info” on the receiver, then “SAT” on the remote, followed by “Cancel” or “Back.” For other remotes, press “System Info,” “SAT,” and “Record,” then exit the info page.

Restart Your Receiver

Try restarting the Dish receiver if reprogramming the remote didn’t work. Turn off the receiver, unplug it for 60 seconds, then plug it back in and turn it on. Then test the remote again.

Reset Your Receiver

If a restart doesn’t fix the issue, consider factory resetting your Dish receiver. Keep in mind that this will erase your favorites list and settings changes. To reset the Hopper, Joey, or Wally receivers, press “Menu” twice or “Home” thrice, go to “Receiver” > “Tools,” select “Reset to Factory Defaults,” and confirm the prompt.

IR Signal

Make sure nothing is between the remote control and the IR input on your TV or receiver. If an object is in the way and blocks your remote’s signal, it won’t work.

Contact Dish Customer Support

If you can’t get the remote working, contact Dish customer support. Provide them with the model of your TV and set-top box to receive appropriate troubleshooting assistance. They may also send technicians if needed.

Am I Using The Right Dish Remote?

It can be confusing if you have multiple receivers in your home using the same remote model. Each receiver must be operated with its paired remote and not a remote paired with another receiver or TV, even if they look the same and are both Dish Network remotes.

To figure out which remote goes with which receiver, do the following:

Press the “Locate Remote” button on the front of the receiver.
Listen for the beeping sound; it indicates the linked remote for that receiver.

To prevent mix-ups, consider marking the remote or attaching a sticker with the room name on it. This simple solution ensures you always have the right remote for the right receiver, avoiding the hassle and frustration of mixing up your Dish remotes.

Linking Your DISH Remote to the Receiver

To link your remote to the DISH receiver, follow these steps:

While on the TV’s “System Info” screen, press the SAT button on the remote again.
Check for Beeping
- If the remote beeps, it’s now linked to the receiver and should work.
- Try using it to control the receiver. It should function properly.
Troubleshooting
- If the remote doesn’t beep, it’s not yet linked. Continue troubleshooting to resolve the issue.

Replace The Batteries For Optimal Performance

To make sure your Dish remote works smoothly, follow these steps:

Regular Replacement
- Replace the batteries every six months to maintain functionality.
Indicator Alert
- If the on-screen indicator shows “LOW,” it’s time for a battery change.
Proper Placement
- Insert the new batteries with both rows going in the same direction.
Test it Out!
- Try using the remote now to check if it works as expected.
Troubleshooting
- If the remote is still not working, continue with troubleshooting to identify and fix the issue.

Check The Remote Control Antenna

Make sure the antenna at the back of the receiver is properly set up:

Receiver with Antenna
- If you are troubleshooting with a Joey, it won’t have an antenna, so skip this step.
Position and Connection
- For receivers with an antenna, make sure it stands upright.
- The antenna must be securely connected to the receiver and hand-tightened for a snug fit.
Avoid Interference
- Make sure no other equipment or cables are touching the antenna, as this may cause interference.

Why did my Dish remote suddenly stop working?

Your Dish remote may have suddenly stopped working due to three common reasons:

Dead Batteries: If the batteries are depleted, the remote won’t function properly. Replace them every six months or when the on-screen indicator shows “LOW.”
Remote Error: Sometimes, the remote might lose its pairing with the receiver. In such cases, re-link the remote by following the proper pairing steps for your remote model.
Receiver Error: If there’s an issue with your Dish receiver, it can affect the remote’s functionality. Try resetting the receiver by unplugging its power cord for 10 seconds and then plugging it back in.

By checking these three possibilities, you can usually resolve your remote issue and regain control of your Dish system.

Why is my remote not working even with new batteries?

If your remote isn’t working despite having new batteries, try these troubleshooting steps:

Check for Button Jam: Make sure none of the remote buttons are stuck or jammed, which can cause unresponsiveness.
Clean Battery Terminals: Dirty battery terminals can hinder proper electrical connections. Remove the batteries and clean the terminals using a small amount of alcohol and a cotton bud or soft cloth. Then reinsert the batteries.
Proper Installation: When the batteries are out, make sure you insert them in the correct direction. The + and – symbols on the battery must align with the corresponding symbols on the remote.

You can usually restore a remote’s functionality by performing these simple checks and maintenance.

What do you do if your TV doesn’t respond to the Dish remote?

If your TV remote doesn’t work, try these troubleshooting tips:

Check Connection: Make sure the remote is properly connected to the TV.
Try Different Buttons: Test other buttons on the remote, as some may be faulty.
Check TV Power: Verify that the TV is turned on and functioning.
Check Batteries: Replace or check the batteries to make sure they’re charged and installed properly.
Perform a Soft Reset: Try a soft reset of your TV to reset settings.
Disconnect Devices: Disconnect any connected devices to rule out interference.
Infrared Signal: Make sure nothing is blocking the remote’s infrared signal from reaching the receiver.

Do Dish TV remotes wear out?

Yes, TV remotes can wear out over time. They typically have conductive rubber on the back of the buttons that contact the circuit board inside the device. This rubber can wear away with regular use, leading to button dysfunction and reduced remote functionality. As a result, it’s common for Dish remotes to experience wear and tear, especially if they are used frequently.

When facing unresponsive buttons or decreased performance, it may be a sign that the remote’s conductive rubber is wearing out. In such cases, replacing the remote or getting it repaired can help restore its proper functionality.

Can you switch DISH remotes?

If you want to switch Dish remotes, you simply pair the new remote with the receiver you want to use it on. Most Dish remotes pair automatically with a receiver, but if a code is needed, find it in the user manual. For Dish 40.0/50.0/52.0/54.0 remotes, press “System Info” on the receiver, then “SAT” on the remote, followed by “Cancel” or “Back.” For other remotes, press “System Info,” “SAT,” and “Record,” then exit the info page.

Summary: Dish Remote Not Working

The most common reason why a dish remote control is not working is the batteries. Typically, batteries should be changed about every 6 months, but it depends a lot on usage. Make sure you install them correctly with the + and – symbols aligning with the corresponding symbol on the remote. If that doesn’t work, make sure no button are sticking. A stuck button can make the remote become unresponsive.

Next, make sure the controller is paired with the receiver you’re using it on. It’s easy to get confused if you have multiple Dish remotes in the same house.

If all else fails, contact Dish support. You may need a new receiver or remote control.

If you have any questions or comments about why your Dish remote isn’t working, email any time.