Are you looking to cut the cord to cable and switch to using an antenna to get your local channels? If so, you need to pick an antenna to have installed on your home for those free over-the-air channels. Here are some tips to consider when selecting TV antennas. 

Know The Difference Between The Antenna Types 

A common mistake that people make is going online and searching for an antenna that can pick up HD channels. The truth is that there is no such thing as an HD antenna, and you may be missing out on a quality antenna just because it doesn't have HD in the name. There are primarily two types of antennas, which are VHF and UHF signal antennas. You can find antennas that use either technology or one that does a combo to receive both signals. VHF antennas are going to get channels 2 through 13, and UHF antennas are going to get channels 14 and above. 

Thankfully, there are online services that will break down all of the channels that should be available to you based on your address. This will tell you which frequency the channel is broadcasted on and what type of antenna you will need to receive them. Things can get a bit confusing, because a station's advertised channel may not be the one they broadcast on. For example, your local CBS affiliate may be on channel 4, but during the digital conversion, they were switched to channel 18. You may think that you only need a VHF antenna to receive your local CBS affiliate, and will quickly be surprised to learn that the advertised station number is not what they actually broadcast on. 

Install The Antenna As High As Possible 

Another mistake made is buying a cheap antenna that is designed to be taped to your window to get your television signal. However, this is going to result in poor signal quality. Either the signal will cut out frequently, or you won't be able to receive all of the channels that you would normally be able to get. The key is to place that antenna as high on your home as possible, with many people installing it on the chimney. This helps receive the signal that normally is blocked by surrounding houses and trees, and can help you receive those signals that are much farther away because there is a clear signal path to the tower.