Forum Discussion

mp4neu's avatar
mp4neu
New Member
3 months ago

Issues with unstable base

Hi,

My husband and I are used to fixing our internet when it goes out. We lose it every time there is a storm. The base was compromised last year when the local fire prevention crew removed bushes and roots near the dish. It's not an issue until the wind kicks up--and I mean, we live in an area that can experience 70 mph winds when storm systems move along the coast--so the wind really is a factor here. So the combination of wind and erosion around the concrete at the base of the dish has caused consistent problems for us. I decided to try to have an upgrade with a complete reinstallation, but the technician was unable to do it because tall trees obscure the connection. We can't cut the trees because they are on neighboring lots we don't own. So we're stuck with the old setup, it seems. The technician shortened the pole but didn't change anything else about it. I had hoped for a new base to be installed at the very least. The technician claimed it was solid, and, when I demonstrated otherwise by wiggling it easily in my hand, he told me "any monkey can shake a pole" and went about stabilizing it in exactly the same way my husband had already done... which we know is insufficient. Should I dig a new hole for the pole myself? What should I do to be sure it will be stable enough to withstand the coastal storms of the Pacific NW? The technician showed up at 4 pm, despite the 11-2 appointment. Perhaps he would have had time to redo the base if he hadn't arrived late... The sun sets so early now. He had concrete and a post hole digger with him. I'm confused about why he basically tried to gaslight us about the stability of the pole. We're tired of dealing with this technician, but it seems like he may be the only one serving our area.  I am looking for guidance on how to move forward and actually solve the problem. The same guy has been out here 4 times over the last year and my setup is still a problem. 

1 Reply

  • maratsade's avatar
    maratsade
    Distinguished Professor IV

    I hope they connect you with a tech who's  not rude and useless, but they might not have anyone else who serves your area.  Still, you're right to complain.  I guess your husband could do the work of digging and putting in the pole,  and then you could get Mr. No Manners to come do the rest of the work. Even though that would be unfair, it might be the only way you get a more stable base.  I hope a rep here replies to you. 

    Is there any other provider you could switch to?