The DirecTV freezing and skipping issue has many people up in arms. You are watching a show using the DirecTV DVR or receiver and suddenly out of the blue, the program freezes. It continues after a short while but it has skipped a part of the show and now you’ll have to go back and rewatch it.
This is an annoying occurrence and often affects the viewing experience of DirecTV users. Frankly, no one wants such interruptions when they’re trying to watch and relish their favorite movie or TV show. In that case, it’s only sensible to find the causes as well as solutions to the DirecTV freezing and skipping problem. Stay put for more details.
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Why is DirecTV freezing and skipping?
Television entertainment has progressed in the past decade. Viewers now enjoy an array of perks and features that come with their TV service. DirecTV is no exception. As expected, we often look for convenience in service providers and this includes television services. That’s why DirecTV introduced the Genie DVR.
This is a device that allows DirecTV users to record shows or programs and view the content later at their convenience. You can record up to 200 hours of content so that you can watch it whenever you’re free to do so.
Most users appreciate the DirecTV DVR because they’re able to keep up with their favourite programs without compromising on other important activities.
With that said, problems may arise as a result of various reasons. Like any other device, you’re bound to face a few challenges here and there. If you notice that DirecTV DVR keeps freezing and skipping every time you’re watching a show, it means there is an issue somewhere. Well, in that case, you ought to get to the bottom of it. But first, why is this happening?
Typically, freezing issues are the result of a weak or poor signal. It indicates that the device isn’t receiving a proper signal and that’s why it’s frozen. Another known cause is overheating of the device.
This is especially common when the device is constantly in use. Overheating happens due to dust accumulation or a malfunctioning fan inside the Genie DVR. On that note, we’ll move on to the solutions.
How to fix DirecTV keeps freezing and skipping
The only way to enjoy a movie, TV show or any other program is to have uninterrupted viewing. As such, dealing with a freezing issue can be a bummer. Don’t worry because there are a few solutions that will help you get rid of the problem instantly. Below are tips to use when resolving the DirecTV freezing and skipping error.
Unplug and restart the device
It may seem like the most basic solution but it tends to work most of the time. When a device freezes, a simple and quick restart refreshes the hardware and allows it to work optimally.
You just have to unplug the Genie DVR or receiver for at least 20 seconds and when that time elapses, plug it back in. It’s a procedure that will reset your device and clear any minor errors and glitches. This means your TV service will have a fresh start and you can continue relishing all the available content.
Check for software updates
The truth is we barely pay attention to software updates yet these are very important. If you want your device to work without glitches and interruptions, it should be running on the newest software version.
A software update is meant to clear existing errors and issues with your device to ensure it’s working properly and as intended. So, when the DirecTV receiver or Genie DVR keeps freezing, it’s likely due to software issues.
Check for software updates and update them if you find any available. This should make the freezing and skipping issue disappear.
Signal issues
More often than not, your DirecTV box will freeze due to signal issues. Perhaps something is disrupting the TV signals and that’s why you have on your hands a frozen DVR. Another thing to keep an eye out for is weak signals. There is no way you’ll enjoy seamless television viewing with poor TV signals.
Consider switching the position of the DirecTV box. Position it in a properly ventilated space to ensure it receives the best and strongest signals.
Outage
Occasionally, a service outage will occur. Sometimes it’s the result of ongoing server maintenance. In that case, your DirecTV Genie DVR might be freezing repeatedly because there’s an outage on the network. There is not much you can do in such a situation. You will have to wait until DirecTV resolves it and the service is back on.
But before you assume the freezes are happening due to an outage, it’s prudent to confirm it. Go to the DirecTV social media platforms and check whether there are any reported outages. Alternatively, use third-party websites to check for outages in your area.
Bad weather
Bad weather is likely to cause freezes on your DirecTV service. Storms, heavy snow and other extreme weather conditions are bound to disrupt the signal. Bad weather is a common reason for signal loss.
Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to fix extreme weather conditions. You will just have to wait for the bad weather to pass and then the network will improve in due time.
Final Thoughts
The solutions mentioned above should help restore your DirecTV service to normal. However, if nothing works you should contact the DirecTV customer care team for further help and instructions. They’ll troubleshoot and tell you what to do to fix it as fast as possible.
FAQs
Why is DirecTV glitching?
The problem you’re experiencing may be the result of extreme weather conditions in the area such as strong winds or heavy snow.
How do I fix my DirecTV from freezing?
First and foremost, restart your DirecTV box. It’s possible that the device was overheating and causing the freeze.
