Be wary of buying used satellite TV equipment. Although it may seem like a better deal to buy second-hand equipment from a friend and install it yourself, it generally isn’t. You will most likely save money, and certainly will save time, buying new, reliable equipment.

Satellite systems companies will not usually install used equipment, so you’ll have to do it yourself. Because the satellite dish has to point in the exact spot to receive a good signal, self-installation can be tricky at best. Hiring a satellite installer is relatively inexpensive and will be less trouble over the long term.

Satellite technology is changing rapidly, and you may find your used equipment is obsolete within a few months. Why not buy a new satellite TV system now and have the ability to upgrade to high-definition TV and home-theater-quality audio or add high-speed internet or a digital video recorder?

If you still decide you want to go with used equipment, be sure that your satellite provider will offer subscription service to you. Some providers will not allow you to buy programming using second-hand equipment.

New equipment will come with a warranty against defects, which you won’t have with used equipment. Don’t settle for old technology when satellite TV system bargains abound!