With the rise of streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime and high-speed internet, many of us have stopped watching traditional TV programmes. This means many of us are left with unwanted satellite dishes perched precariously on our roofs or mounted on tall poles set into the ground.
These are an eyesore, and they can pose a safety hazard if they become loose or are damaged in a storm or during high winds. If you want to reclaim your roof or backyard space and dispose of your unwanted satellite dish responsibly, this guide is for you.
We'll walk you through the process of safely removing the dish yourself, from gathering the right tools to dismantling the structure. Finally, we'll explore some eco-friendly options for recycling the various leftover components.
Once you've decided to get rid of your unwanted satellite dish, it’s time to get down to the details of DIY satellite dish removal. However, removing an old satellite dish isn’t a straightforward task.
Some of the challenges include:
An important point to remember is that it’s not just about decluttering your roof or backyard – it’s about doing so safely and sustainably.
Before you start the process of removing a satellite dish from your roof, it’s important to consider all safety aspects. Here's a step-by-step on how to remove your satellite dish without taking unnecessary risks:
Preparation
Removing the dish
Remember safety first! If you're not sure about any of the steps, or you feel unsure about working at heights, it's best to call in a professional.
Removing a satellite dish that’s mounted on a pole in the ground is a slightly less risky operation than tackling one on your roof, however, you must still take care. Here's how to get it done safely and easily.
Get the correct equipment
You'll need a spade to loosen the dirt around the base of the pole. Depending on the pole's size and how it's anchored, a wrench or pliers might be needed to remove any nuts or bolts at the bottom of the pole. Wear sturdy shoes and gloves for digging and handling the dish. Safety glasses are a good idea to protect your eyes from anything that might come loose.
Detach the dish
Find the cable running from the dish to your house. Disconnect it from the dish using cable cutters and label the cable in case it’s needed for future use.
Next, look for the bracket that holds the dish onto the pole; it will likely be secured with nuts or bolts. Use your wrench, spanner, or pliers to loosen and remove these. Carefully lower the dish towards you or your helper, keeping it level to avoid any damage.
Once you’ve removed the satellite dish, it's time to tackle the pole itself. Start by digging away some dirt around the base to expose a good-sized section of the pole. You might find a concrete base holding it in place, depending on how it was installed.
If there's no concrete, try to loosen the pole by rocking it back and forwards. A helper is a big plus for this step.
If the pole seems very secure, consider using a pry bar wedged against a solid object, like a large rock, to help lever it out of the ground. If the pole is deeply buried, or made of a heavy material, you might need some extra power.
You could try using a tow strap or rope secured to the pole and a sturdy vehicle to gently pull it out. Be very careful if you use this method. Make sure the vehicle is securely anchored and have someone guide the pole as it comes out.
Once the pole is out, fill the remaining hole with dirt and pack it down firmly.
Disconnecting satellite dish wires is a reasonably straightforward process, but it's important to prioritise safety. Before you touch any wires, make sure your satellite service is deactivated and the power supply to the dish is unplugged.
Satellite cable is usually a thick, round coaxial cable running from the dish to your house. At the dish, find the point where this cable connects. There should be a screw-on connector holding it in place. Use a wrench or pliers, depending on the type of connector, to loosen and remove it gently.
Now follow the cable from outside your house to where it enters through a wall or crawlspace. Inside, the cable will most likely connect to a splitter or receiver box. Find the specific point for the satellite dish cable – most connections will involve a screw-on mechanism similar to the one at the dish.
Use the right tool to loosen and remove the connector carefully. If you think you might ever reinstall your satellite dish, consider labelling the cable on both ends before disconnecting it. This will help you identify it easily in the future.
Coaxial cable can often be recycled through electronics recycling programs, or you can dispose of it in your regular trash can. Remember, be gentle with the cables and if you're unsure about any step in removing satellite dish wires, get professional help.
Removing a satellite dish from your roof can leave behind some small holes. While they may not seem like a big problem, these holes can let water seep into your roof and cause damage.
This section is a clear and simple guide to patching these holes and keeping your roof watertight. We'll cover the materials you'll need, the steps in the repair process, and some important things to think about to make sure your fix lasts.
How to Patch Your Roof After Removing a Satellite Dish
After removing your satellite dish, you'll find a few small holes where the mounting bracket was attached. These holes need to be patched properly to prevent water leaks and potential damage to your roof. Here's a detailed guide on how to get the job done:
Materials
Steps
Helpful Tips
By following these steps, you can patch the holes left behind by your satellite dish and ensure your roof remains a reliable barrier against the elements.
The final cost of removing your satellite dish from your roof can vary, according to several factors. The size and complexity of the dish plays a role, as larger or multi-part dishes will involve more labour and therefore cost more to take down.
Accessibility of your roof is also a factor; a steep or difficult-to-access roof will need greater safety precautions, which will likely cost more. Where the satellite dish is mounted also matters – a pole in the ground is generally easier and cheaper to deal with than a roof-mounted satellite dish. Be sure to factor in disposal fees as well, if you’re not going to recycle your disk.
A big decision to make is whether you’ll tackle your satellite dish removal yourself, or will you call in a professional? DIY removal might seem cheaper at first, but you'll need to factor in the cost of any tools you don't have, like a tall ladder, or roofing supplies for patching the holes left behind.
Bear in mind there can be hidden costs to consider with either option. Unexpected damage to your roof or cables during removal might need additional repairs, which will add to the overall cost. There could also be hidden mounting hardware under the dish that a professional might uncover, which will need extra time and bump up their price.
If you choose to go the DIY route, disposing of the dish responsibly at an electronics recycling centre might incur additional fees, if you can’t find a local recycler.
The decision comes down to weighing the cost of tools, potential repairs, and your own comfort level working at heights against the convenience and expertise of a professional. To ensure a smooth and safe removal process, it’s important to consider these factors to help you determine the best course of action for your satellite dish removal project.
While there aren't any companies in New Zealand that currently offer completely free satellite dish removal, there are a few ways to minimise the cost.
Your first stop should be your service provider. They might offer removal as part of the disconnection process, especially if you're switching providers or upgrading your package. It's worth checking to see if they have any removal options available.
Another option to explore is recycling centres or scrap metal yards. Some might accept satellite dishes for free (or for a small fee) depending on the materials the dish is made of. However, this option means you need to remove the dish yourself and take it to the facility.
Searching online for recycling centres or scrap metal yards in your area that accept electronics is a good first step. Call them directly to confirm their policy on satellite dishes.
Finally, there might be local community programmes or charities that can help. These kinds of programmes can help low-income homeowners or seniors with tasks like satellite dish removal. Research online or contact your local council to find out if there are any programmes like these available in your area.
Once you've successfully removed your satellite dish, either by DIY or using a professional, the job isn't quite finished. It’s important to dispose of it responsibly to protect the environment and avoid harmful electronic waste ending up in landfills. Here are some eco-friendly options to consider:
If your satellite dish is made mainly of metal, scrap metal yards could be a good option. They usually buy unwanted metal by weight, so larger dishes could potentially bring a nice return. Contact your local scrap metal yards to find out about their policy on satellite dishes and what you need to do to prepare the disk before drop-off.
In New Zealand, there are a few factors to consider when dealing with your unwanted Sky satellite dish. Here's what you need to know:
Endless Residential Scrap - Auckland https://www.endless.co.nz/residential-scrap/. Endless accept residential scrap metal and help with appliance and whiteware recycling.
Sims Metal - Nationwide https://www.simsmetal.co.nz/sell-your-scrap/general-public/. Sims Metal pays cash for scrap metal.
Central Metals, Hamilton https://www.centralmetals.co.nz/yard-drop-off-service/. Take your scrap metal to Central Metals for recycling, and they will pay you for it. They accept household items like whiteware (fridges, stoves).
Deciding to hire a professional to take down and remove your old satellite dish often includes disposal of the dish. But what if you've already taken it down yourself and just need someone to haul it away?
Junk removal companies often handle electronic waste, including satellite dishes. Get quotes from a few different companies and ask about their pricing for satellite dish removal.
If your dish is mainly metal, some scrap metal yards might accept it for a fee based on its weight. While it comes at a cost, this solution ensures convenience and efficiency, and it spares you the effort of arranging drop-offs or coordinating pickups.
It only takes a few clicks for you to post your satellite dish removal task requirements on Ezy Peazy. Add your location, budget, and preferred time and wait for the offers to come in. Select your preferred tasker for the job and they’ll pick up your dish from wherever it needs collecting and dispose of it safely and in line with recycling best practice. It’s that easy with Ezy Peazy!
Can I remove my old satellite dish myself?
Yes, it's possible, but safety is key. If your dish is on a dangerous roof, call a professional tasker to avoid accidents. If you decide to DIY, you'll need tools like a ladder and wrenches and be prepared to patch any holes left behind in your roof. There may also be unexpected damage during removal that will need extra repairs.
How can I dispose of the old dish in an eco-friendly way?
Certified electronics recycling centres accept old satellite dishes for responsible material separation. Scrap metal yards might take metal dishes and offer you a small fee, based on weight. Some satellite dish manufacturers might even have take-back programmes.
Should I hire a professional to remove my old satellite dish?
The cost to hire a professional can range from $100 to $500 in New Zealand. Factors that affect the price include the size and complexity of the dish, how easy it is to access your roof, and if disposal fees are included. Weighing your DIY skills against these professional removal costs will help you work out the best way to get rid of your unwanted satellite dish.