DIRECTV FAQ'S
Frequently Asked Questions
Heres answers to questions that you may have
about DIRECTV service. Whether you want information on when
your DIRECTV will be installed, what high-end equipment you'll
be receiving or channels available in DIRECTV packages, our
FAQ page has most answers. If you dont see yours here,
please call us at
1-800-418-1388 , or drop us an email.
We hope to have you as our newest DIRECTV customer today!
Programming
& Channel Packages:
Installation:
DIRECTV Equipment:
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Ordering
DIRECTV:
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& Channel Packages: |
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If I have
DIRECTV, can I still get local channels?
A: In most cases, yes, you can. Local channels are offered
in several of our packages. By visiting our DIRECTV
local channel lookup tool, you can check to see if local
channels are available in your area. You may find an antenna
on your roof is a solution to get local channels if they are
not yet available in your area.
Q:
How do I find out what local channels are offered?
A: In over 93% of our areas of service, you will be able to
receive your local channels. To find out what local channels
are available in your area, visit the DIRECTV
local channels lookup tool.
Q:
Is there a channel guide that compares each programming package?
A: By visiting the DIRECTV
package comparison guide on our web site, you can compare
all of our channel packages side by side. The comparison guide
lists the channels that are available in each package so you
can choose the package that best meets the viewing needs of
your family.
Q:
There is a specific channel I want to receive. How do I find
out which package offers this channel?
A: The easiest way to find out is by visiting our DIRECTV
package comparison guide on our web site.
Q: Is there
a full listing of the international and foreign language channels
offered by DIRECTV?
A: Yes, the listing is available on our web site. on the DIRECTV
international programming page.
Q:
I only want to receive international programming. Is this
option available?
A: We have several international programming packages: DIRECTV
MÁS® (chose from BÁSICO®,
FAMILIAR™, FAMILIAR
ULTRA, LO MÁXIMO),
and JADEWORLD Chinese-language programming. Other international
channels can be added to any of these packages individually.
Q:
Do you offer Spanish language channels?
A: Yes, Spanish language programming is offered in a variety
of our packages. DIRECTV
MÁS® offers more than
forty sports, movies, news and educational channels in Spanish*.
This is our most comprehensive package offering English programming
channels with Spanish audio available. *Includes English-language broadcast channels with alternate
Spanish-language audio.
Other
DIRECTV Spanish language packages are:
BÁSICO®
- This is our entry package and offers more than 70 channels.
FAMILIAR
- This mid-range package offers a wide array of entertainment
with more than 150 channels.
FAMILIAR ULTRA
- This is a great well-rounded package of more
than 215 channels for the entire family.
LO MÁXIMO
- For those looking for the premium service, this
package offers more than 280 quality channels.
Q:
Can I get individual channels with my DIRECTV service?
A: Yes, we offer premium movie and sports channels individually.
When you subscribe to base package programming, you may add
channels such as HBO®, SHOWTIME
UNLIMITED®, Cinemax®,
Starz® Super Pack and SPORTS PACK.
PLAYBOY TV is offered in our adult channel lineup as well
as other well known options.
Q: Once
I order the DIRECTV System, how long will it be until it is
installed?
A: In most cases, you can be enjoying your DIRECTV service
in your home in less than forty-eight hours from when your
order was submitted. If there are local professional installers
in your immediate area, it could be less than 24 hours. To
find out how soon you be enjoying our great service in your
area, please call us at
1-800-418-1388 .
Q:
How long should I expect installation to take of the DIRECTV
System?
A: The amount of time needed depends on the number of televisions
in your home. Normally, two televisions can be completed in
an hour and a half and four televisions can be completed in
two hours.
Q:
Can I get DIRECTV in my apartment complex?
A: You will need to check with your property management or
homeowners association regarding the rules for mounting a
DIRECTV dish on the top of your apartment. If this is not
allowed, you may be able to install the system on your patio
or deck. It should be noted that this option depends largely
on location as an unobstructed view of the sky in the south
is needed.
Q:
What happens to the equipment if I move?
A: DIRECTV has a special program that makes moving your DIRECTV
System simple. When you move, you will only need to take your
receivers. The DIRECTV MOVERS CONNECTION program can help
you to continue to receive the programming you love in your
new home. If you are moving outside of the lower 48, please
contact us as new receiving equipment may be required.
Q:
Why does the system have to be connected to a telephone line?
A: This is not required; however, it simplifies your service
and saves you money. When your receiver is connected to a
phone line, it enables you to order pay per view through your
remote control. When other receivers are connected to a single
phone line, you can get the same subscriptions for the low
price of just $4.99 for each additional receiver.
If you elect not to connect the receiver to your telephone
line, you must call our customer service center. To offset
the cost of this automated service, you will be charged an
additional fee of $1.50 for each pay per view ordered. If
you order through an operator, the additional charge is $5.00
for each pay per view. As you can see, simply by connecting
your phone line, your DIRECTV experience can be simpler and
more affordable.
Q:
If I connect my receiver to my telephone line, will it interfere
with my telephone calls?
A: No, it will not have any effect on your telephone calls.
Our receiver has a modem inside that is set to call our computer
system (a toll-free phone number) in the early AM hours. If
you happen to be on the phone, the modem will simply attempt
a call at another time.
Q:
What wiring will I need for my DIRECTV System?
A: The DIRECTV System uses RG-6 coax cable to carry the bandwidth
of the digital signals between the receiver and the satellite
dish. If you already have this type of cable installed, you
may use it. If not, you will need to run RG-6 coax cable in
order for your system to work effectively.
Q:
How does the wiring for DIRECTV System differ from the cable
company?
A: In most cases, the wiring will be installed in the same
way as the cable company. We will install a high quality cable
that will ensure a clear, crisp picture.
Q: Will everyone
in my home have to watch the same programming if we have DIRECTV?
A: No, this is a common myth about DIRECTV. By leasing separate
receivers for each television, you will be able to watch different
programming on each television. Best of all, each additional
leased receiver is only $4.99 per month.
Q:
What does DIRECTV DVR service provide?
A: The DIRECTV DVR service gives you the ultimate in flexibility
and convenience. It allows you to record up to 70 hours**
of your favorite television programs without a videotape or
DVD. Do you have a favorite television show you watch every
day? You can tell the system just once that you would like
the show recorded and it will record it each time it airs.
In addition, you can even replay, rewind and pause live DIRECTV
programming. Now theres no need to miss part of your
show for a bathroom break or to check on dinner. The DIRECTV
DVR service gives you total control over your TV viewing experience.
Q:
To get local channels, do I have to install an antenna?
A: If local channels are available in your area, you will
be able to receive these channels through your DIRECTV service.
Use our DIRECTV local channel lookup tool to see what local
channels are available in your area.
Q:
Will I have parental controls available with my DIRECTV System?
A: The DIRECTV System allows you to control viewing rights
for your entire family. With the Locks and Limits capability,
you have a wide range of functionality. You may set a spending
limit for pay per view movies and events, restrict movies
based on their rating and block channels from access.
Q: How can
I calculate my bill based on the number of televisions in
my home?
A: By using our DIRECTV
bill calculator, you can easily calculate your monthly
bill.
Q:
Do I have to pay more for local channels?
A: If local channels are available in your area, programming
packages include these channels.
Q:
How do I find out about specials available in my area?
A: By visiting our DIRECTV special
offers page, you can view what specials are available
to you.
Q:
How do I find out what the total cost will be including any
equipment and installation?
A: By visiting our DIRECTV
monthly cost calculator online, you can see the total
cost for your chosen package and equipment.
Q:
How can I see what my monthly bill will be after my promotion
period ends?
A: On our web site., you will find the DIRECTV
monthly cost calculator. This tool will show you how much
your monthly bill will be during your promotion period as
well as after it ends.
Q
- What is the cost to add an additional TV to my package?
A: There is a $4.99 fee per standard receiver for every television
after the first. For example, a 3 television system would
have total monthly lease fee of $9.98. The simplest way to
see if you will have an additional cost to add another TV
to your service is to use our DIRECTV
monthly cost calculator.
Q:
Does my monthly fee include the cost of the receiver and DVR?
A: The cost of the standard receiver is included in most cases.
The DVR service is an additional $5.99 per month for all DVRs.
A simple way to calculate your monthly cost based on the equipment
you have and your programming package is to use our DIRECTV
monthly cost calculator.
Q:
If I have more than one television, does my monthly fee stay
the same?
A: Yes. Your programming package has a set price regardless
of how many televisions are in your home. Depending on how
you choose to set up your system, there could be additional
fees for multiple receivers. To find out what your total cost
would be, please try our DIRECTV
monthly cost calculator.
Q:
What length of contract is required for DIRECTV Service?
A: A 12 month contract is required for a DIRECTV Standard
System. For those who lease a DIRECTV HD DVR, DIRECTV DVR,
or DIRECTV HD System, the contract is 24 months. Throughout
the duration of your contract, you must continually be subscribed
to the programming package of your choice.
Q: What is
the lowest priced package offered?
A: The most inexpensive package offered through BestDealSatellite.com
is CHOICE® which has more than 150 channels, includes
your local channels and only costs $52.99/month. The easiest
way to calculate your monthly cost based on your favorite
channels is to try our DIRECTV
monthly cost calculator.
Q:
In order to receive DIRECTV service, do I have to own a credit
card?
A: A credit card is only required for the delivery charge
of $19.95. After that, while it is acceptable to pay your
bill by credit card, it is not required.
Q:
Can I get my internet service through DIRECTV?
A: We are exploring adding this service soon but at this time,
it is unavailable.
Q:
What is the purpose of giving my social security number?
A: We realize that your social security number is very personal
and we respect that. Your social security number is needed
to ensure that those receiving the equipment have a good credit
rating. Rest assured that DIRECTV is a reputable company that
has over 15 million customers. We will always protect our
customers personal information.
Q:
I would like to speak to someone in person about my service.
How do I do this?
A: We do not have retail storefronts. However, we are sure
you will find our more than 300 BestDealSatellite.com customer
service representatives to be friendly and helpful in answering
your questions. We are available Monday thru Saturday until
midnight and on Sunday until 9pm EST at
1-800-418-1388 .
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