Just about everyone uses a cell phone in this day and age, whether it’s an iPhone or Android device, or even an old-fashioned flip phone that you still like.
There are few things worse than being in the middle of an important conversation and having your call dropped because your cell service wasn’t able to handle the signal strength or it simply doesn’t exist in your area! Here are 5 things that you might not have thought could disrupt your cell phone service.
1) Trees
Trees are one of the most common things that can block your cell phone signal. They can grow tall and thick, blocking out service for miles around. If you live in a rural area, or an area with a lot of trees, you may find yourself constantly searching for a signal.
2) Metal Siding
You may not realize it, but the siding on your home or office could be affecting your cell phone signal. Metal siding can block signals, especially if it’s thick or has a metal backing.
Even worse, if the metal is painted or sealed, it can create a Faraday cage that completely blocks signal. If you’re having trouble getting a good cell signal, check to see if there’s any metal siding nearby.
3) Large Appliances
You might not think that your home appliances would have any effect on your cell phone signal, but they can actually be a big source of interference. Everything from your fridge to your oven can emit electromagnetic fields that can disrupt your service. Here are some of the biggest offenders –
- Microwaves: The EMFs emitted by microwaves can block signals. They will only cause trouble if you’re using your microwave while you’re also trying to use your mobile device. But when it’s not in use, it could still be emitting those strong signals.
- Refrigerators: The large metal surfaces inside refrigerators can also create interference for cellular networks and wireless devices, so don’t forget to close the door when you’re making or receiving calls!
- Televisions: Like microwaves and refrigerators, televisions create EMFs which interfere with signals from cell phones and other devices.
4) Roofs
You might not think that your roof would have anything to do with your cell phone service, but it can actually be a big factor. If your roof is made of metal or has aluminium siding, it can cause interference with your signal. Even trees can be to blame, as their leaves can block the signal. If you live in a rural area, hills and mountains can also impede your service.
5) Walls and Floors
Your cell phone service can be disrupted by things you wouldn’t expect, like the materials your walls and floors are made of. Even if you have a strong signal outside, your indoors service can be weak due to building materials that block or weaken the signal.
How to improve your cell phone signal service
- If you live in a rural area, your cell phone signal may not be as strong as it is in a more urban area. To improve your signal, try moving to a higher location, such as a hill or taller building.
- Metal objects can disrupt your cell phone signal. If you’re having trouble getting service in your home, try moving away from metal objects like filing cabinets or metal walls.
- Heavy rainfall can also weaken your cell phone signal. If you live in an area with bad weather, consider investing in a cell phone signal booster to help improve your service.
- The direction your cell phone is facing can also make a difference in your service. If you’re holding your phone in a horizontal position, it won’t pick up as many cell towers as if you’re holding it vertically. Try turning your phone sideways to improve your reception and call quality.
- The most common source of signal disruption is other electronic devices. If you’re having trouble getting cell phone reception in your house, try turning off all unneeded electronics, such as televisions and computers. This will help clear a space for your cell phone to pick up signal from nearby towers.
If you are still having trouble after trying these tips, contact your service provider for further advice.