Most of us take our TV remote controls for granted. When one of them breaks or goes missing, though, it can be extremely aggravating. Many TVs cannot be programmed without a remote. You may not be able to purchase your exact remote in a local store. Finding a remote that will work with your TV, though, is a simple process.
Instructions
1. Consider which type of remote you need to buy. Do you need a remote that will simply control your TV, or do you need a more complex remote for a cable or satellite box as well as your TV? Call your cable or satellite company directly if you have to buy an exact replacement remote control for one of their boxes. There are also universal remotes on the market that will work on these boxes.
2. Find the model number for the remote you want to replace. There are three ways you can do this. Many remotes will have the model number written directly on them. If you don't see it directly on the outside surface, remove the battery cover and look inside. You can always find the model number for your remote control in the manual that came with the TV set. Finally, you can contact the manufacturer. Once you describe your TV and your remote control, customer service will be able to tell you the model number for the remote.
3. Call the TV manufacturer to learn if the remote for your TV is still being made. You may actually be able to purchase a replacement TV remote control directly from the manufacturer over the phone. You can also visit the manufacturer's website to search for a replacement remote control.
4. Visit websites and search for replacement TV remote controls. Remote Controls Incorporated and Remotes Express (see Resources below) are just two places where you can find replacement TV remote controls for every major brand. Both of these companies also have telephone customer service to ensure that you purchase the exact remote control for your TV set.
5. Buy a universal remote from an electronics stores. Best Buy, Circuit City and Radio Shack are just three big-name electronics stores that sell many different universal TV remote controls. These will work on your TV, DVD/VHS player and even a cable or satellite box. Look on the back of the universal remote package and read the list of manufacturers. This is how you will know if the universal remote you're buying will work on your TV.
Tags: remote control, replacement remote, model number, universal remote, will work
