Saving on TV service

Remember when TV was free?  You just turned it on and poof, there it was.  Maybe you needed an antenna to get a clearer picture, but other than that and the television itself, there was no cost to getting service.

Nowadays, if you want to get over the air stations, you'll need to get a digital antenna.  That's because broadcast stations have switched from analog to digital signals.  Check the FCC website for more information about this.

But many people want more service than that - they either want cable service or satellite service like that provided by Direct TV.  Here are some thoughts about saving on these services:

• Be sure you know what you want.  Go through the channel listings of the different services available in your area to figure out what you will actually use.  Don't spend extra to get packages when you really won't use any of the stations on it.  Choose the service that has what you need.
• Check into the equipment you'll need.  Will you need to purchase equipment, or is it part of the service?  Are there extra charges that you don't need, such as for a remote? 
• Also check into extra services like multiple receivers and DVRs.   How much do you need?  Don't pay extra for extras that you don't need.
• Ask your neighbors to see what services they use and how the service is in your area.  Though your friends or family may like a particular service, that one may not work as well in your geographical area.
• Be careful of deals where you're offered extra channels for free.  You may get used to them, then not want to cancel them once the free period is over.  Having something given, then taken away hurts far more than never having it at all.

If you do decide on satellite, check with the folks at dx3 direct tv. There is a lot of great information to help you make your decision. Be sure to check dx3 before you decide!

(This is a sponsored post on behalf of dx3.net. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.)