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TV Repair: Restoring Your Entertainment and Avoiding the Dreaded Black Screen
There are few things as frustrating as settling down for a bit of relaxation, only to be met with a blank screen when you press the power button on your TV. A TV repair by a qualified technician in South Africa with the average repair typically ranging from R700 to R3,500 depending on the complexity of the job and the cost of parts. While a simple fix might cost around R700, more complex jobs like replacing a main board can reach R3,500 or more, depending on the parts needed. Most common repairs can be completed in an hour or two, but sourcing specific components might take a few days. Getting a professional to diagnose the problem is the first and most crucial step, as it prevents you from guessing the issue and can save you from a costly mistake.
Understanding the typical causes of TV malfunction is key to deciding whether to repair or replace your unit. From the simple fix of a loose power cord to a more complex internal component failure, knowing what's going on behind the screen can help you make an informed decision. While some basic troubleshooting can be done at home, problems like a failed power board or backlight strips are best left to a professional for safety and to avoid causing more damage.
Common TV Problems and How a Technician Fixes Them
When your TV starts acting up, the symptoms can range from a completely blank screen to a picture with strange lines or colours. An expert electrician or TV repair technician will approach the problem methodically, using their experience and specialised tools to diagnose the exact issue. This is far better than simply guessing, which can lead to unnecessary costs and potential damage.
The Dreaded Black Screen: When Your TV Won't Turn On
The most common and frustrating problem is a TV that refuses to power on. While the first step is always to check if the power cord is securely plugged in and if the wall outlet is working, a more serious issue often lies within. “You’d be surprised how often it’s something simple,” says Archie, a Kandua Pro technician from Bellville. “I had a call-out in Durbanville where the client’s cat had just nudged the plug out of the wall socket. Always check the basics first!”
More complex cases, however, often point to a faulty power supply board. This component regulates the electricity flowing into the TV. If it fails, the TV gets no power. Kandua technicians see this problem daily, especially with the strain of load shedding across South Africa. They explain that this is not a DIY fix, as opening the TV means working with live electrical components. The main board, or "brain" of the TV, can also be the culprit. A technician will use a multimeter to test the voltage and determine if the power board is faulty, a clear-cut and professional diagnostic step.
No Picture, but There Is Sound
This is a classic symptom, especially on LED or LCD TVs. You can hear the audio from your favourite show, but the screen is completely dark. This almost always points to a problem with the backlights.
A technician will tell you that the backlight strips illuminate the screen, and if they fail, you’ll hear sound but see a very dim or black picture. Shine a flashlight at the screen; if you can faintly see an image, the backlights are likely the issue. This is a common failure on older TVs. Repairing or replacing these strips is a labour-intensive but routine task for a professional and is significantly more economical than replacing the entire TV.
Distorted Picture or Strange Colours
If your picture looks like a piece of modern art with vertical or horizontal lines, blotches, or strange colours, the problem often lies with the T-Con (Timing Controller) board. A loose ribbon cable connecting the boards could also cause this. A seasoned technician will first check and meticulously reseat all internal cable connections before moving on to a more complex diagnosis. Jabulani, a certified electronics technician and Kandua Pro from Soweto, says, "I've saved countless TVs from the scrap heap just by sorting out a loose internal cable. You always check the simplest, cheapest causes first before quoting on new parts."
TV Keeps Turning On and Off
This can be incredibly frustrating and points to a deeper issue. It could be a faulty power connection, but more likely, it's a sign of a deeper internal problem, such as a faulty power board or swollen capacitors. A Kandua Pro in Randburg recently shared how a quick visual inspection of a TV that kept rebooting immediately revealed several bulging capacitors on the power supply, a clear sign of failure, likely due to recent power surges.
The Value of Getting a Professional Electrician for TV Repair
DIY TV repair is not recommended unless you are a trained professional. Televisions contain capacitors that can hold a dangerous electrical charge even after being unplugged, posing a serious risk of electrical shock. Any work involving electrical components should be done with extreme caution, adhering to safety standards like those outlined in SANS 10142-1 for electrical installations. Furthermore, modern TVs are complex, delicate pieces of equipment. Attempting a repair without the right tools and knowledge can easily lead to further, more expensive, or irreparable damage to sensitive components.
A professional electrician with experience in TV repair has the right diagnostic tools, safety procedures, and knowledge to accurately identify the problem. They can pinpoint a single faulty component, which is a far more efficient and cost-effective approach than simply swapping out entire boards. They also have access to genuine replacement parts or reliable alternatives, ensuring the repair is lasting and reliable.
For more details on what professionals charge, check out our Electrician Cost Guide.
Checklist: Before Your Technician Arrives
To make the repair process smoother and faster, have this information ready:
- TV Brand and Model Number: You can find this on a sticker on the back of your TV.
- A Clear Description of the Problem: What is it doing or not doing? When did it start?
- Clear the Area: Make sure the technician has easy access to the TV and a safe space to work.
- Check the Power Source: Confirm the wall plug is working by testing it with another appliance, like a lamp.
Post-Service Care: Tips to Keep Your TV Running Smoothly
Once your TV is back in action, a little aftercare can go a long way in preventing future issues.
- Protect from Power Surges: A quality surge protector is a non-negotiable for any electronic device in South Africa, espcially during load shedding.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Give your TV ample space to breathe, especially at the back and sides. Overheating is a leading cause of internal component failure.
- Keep it Clean: Use a soft, dry microfibre cloth to dust the screen and casing. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage the screen's protective layers.
- Be Mindful of Usage: While modern TVs are built to last, continuous, long hours of use at maximum brightness can shorten the lifespan of the backlights and other components.
- Look for Warning Signs: Pay attention to any strange flickering, intermittent sound issues, or unusual noises. A professional can often fix a minor issue before it escalates into a major, costly repair.
Customer Stories and Results
The Davids family in Sea Point, Cape Town, thought their high-end Smart TV was a write-off when the screen went dark. Kandua connected them with a local pro who diagnosed a failed backlight strip. The R2,200 repair saved them from spending over R15,000 on a new TV, and it was working perfectly again the next day.
After a week of high-stage load shedding, an accounting firm in Sandton found their boardroom TV wouldn't turn on. Their Kandua technician found a damaged power supply board. The R1,800 repair was completed the same day, saving the company from having to replace its R12,000 presentation screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does a typical TV repair take?
Simple on-site repairs can take 1-2 hours. If specific parts need to be ordered, it could take a few days. The technician will give you a clear timeline after diagnosing the problem.
2. Is it worth repairing an old TV, or should I just buy a new one?
It depends on the cost. Repairing a 3-year-old 55-inch TV for R2,000 is almost always worth it. Repairing a 10-year-old small TV for R1,000 is likely not. A technician can give you a quote to help you decide.
3. Can power surges in South Africa damage my TV?
Absolutely. Power surges and load shedding are two of the biggest causes of TV damage in South Africa. A good quality surge protector plug is an essential and affordable investment to protect your electronics.
4. What information should I provide to a TV repair technician when I contact them?
It is helpful to provide the TV's brand and model number (usually on a sticker on the back of the TV). Describe the symptoms clearly: what is the TV doing or not doing, what did you observe before the problem started, and what troubleshooting steps have you already tried? This information helps the technician prepare and can speed up the diagnosis process.
5. How much is the average call-out fee for a TV technician?
A call-out or assessment fee typically ranges from R350 to R750. This covers the technician's travel and time to diagnose the fault. Most reputable companies will deduct this fee from the final repair bill if you proceed with the service.
6. What are the signs of a faulty power supply in a TV?
Common signs include the TV not turning on at all, a clicking noise when you try to power it on, or a standby light that blinks but the TV never fully powers up.
7. My TV has sound but no picture. Can this be fixed?
Yes, this is a very common issue, usually caused by failed LED backlights. This is a repairable but labour-intensive job, typically costing between R900 and R2,800.
8. Is it worth repairing a cracked TV screen?
Almost never. The cost of a replacement screen panel, combined with the intensive labour to install it, usually exceeds the price of a brand-new television.
9. Why did the technician say my TV is "beyond economical repair"?
This means the total cost of the parts and labour required to fix the TV is higher than, or very close to, the cost of buying a comparable new model. This is most often the case with screen damage or multiple component failures.
10. What can I do to protect my TV from future damage?
Always use a high-quality surge protector, unplug the TV during severe thunderstorms, ensure it has proper ventilation, and keep it clean with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals on the screen.
Why you can trust Kandua to get it right:
At Kandua, getting your home projects done is simple, safe, and stress-free.
Tell us what you need – Or let our smart AI Home Companion help diagnose your problem if you’re not sure where to start.Get answers as you go – While posting your job, you can ask our smart AI home companion anything, from understanding typical costs, to how the process works, to how long it might take. Ask questions whenever they pop up, and get clear, helpful answers instantly.We match you with the best – All our pros are 100% vetted: ID-verified, criminal background checked, certification verified, and maintaining at least a 4.5-star rating. You don’t have to worry about picking the right person,
With Kandua, you can rest easy knowing you’re in safe hands from the first click to the final handshake.
Electricians in South Africa: what to know before you book
Electrical issues have a way of starting small… and turning serious fast. A plug that “sometimes trips” can become a melted socket. Flickering lights can point to loose connections. And if your earth leakage keeps going off, it’s often your home telling you something isn’t right.
Kandua helps you get it sorted by matching you with a vetted electrician for your job — whether it’s a repair, installation, inspection, upgrade, or an urgent call-out.
A few quick answers (so you don’t have to scroll)
How do I choose a good electrician?
Pick someone who explains the cause (not just the symptom), tests before they replace parts, prices transparently, and can issue the right compliance paperwork when it’s required.
Do I need an Electrical Certificate of Compliance (CoC) in South Africa?
Often, yes — especially for property transfer and for any additions/alterations to an installation. The Department of Employment and Labour has also warned against “paper CoCs” issued without proper testing, and urges homeowners to use legally registered electrical contractors.
What should electrical work cost?
Most electricians charge a call-out fee + labour + materials, with higher rates for after-hours, complex fault finding, DB work, or urgent callouts. (There’s a pricing guide further down.)
What should I do first in an electrical emergency?
If it’s safe, switch off power at the main breaker, keep people away from the affected area (especially if there’s water), and call an electrician. If there’s smoke/fire risk, treat it as an emergency immediately.
Common electrical problems (and what they usually mean)
You don’t need to diagnose like an electrician — but it helps to know what the usual “signals” point to.
“My plugs keep tripping / the power keeps going off”
Often caused by an overloaded circuit, a faulty appliance, a loose connection, or a problem at the DB (distribution board). If it’s frequent, don’t just keep resetting — you want proper testing to prevent heat build-up and damage.
“My earth leakage trips randomly (especially at night or when it rains)”
This can indicate moisture ingress, a faulty appliance, deteriorating insulation, outdoor circuits taking on water, or an earthing/bonding issue. It’s common — and it’s exactly the sort of thing that needs systematic fault finding.
“My lights flicker / dim when I use appliances”
Sometimes it’s a supply issue — but it can also point to loose connections, voltage drop, an overloaded circuit, or a stressed neutral. If you’re noticing it across multiple rooms, get it checked.
“I smell burning / a plug is warm / there’s buzzing at the DB”
Treat this as urgent. Heat + electrics is how small problems become big ones. Switch off the circuit (or main breaker if you’re unsure) and book an electrician.
“I get a small shock/tingle from taps or appliances”
That can be an earthing/bonding fault and should be investigated quickly — especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and anywhere near water.
When it’s a DIY job — and when it isn’t
DIY can be fine for low-risk, non-electrical basics (like replacing a light bulb, resetting a tripped breaker once, or unplugging an appliance to test if it’s the cause).
Call an electrician when:
- a socket/switch is hot, crackling, discoloured, or smells burnt
- breakers/earth leakage keep tripping
- you suspect faulty wiring, water exposure, or a hidden issue
- you’re touching the DB, adding circuits, or upgrading capacity
- you’re installing high-load appliances (oven, hob, geyser, heat pump) or adding dedicated circuits
- you’re adding solar/inverter equipment or changing the installation layout
- you may need a CoC for compliance, insurance, or sale/transfer
Certifications, registrations & compliance in South Africa (what matters and when)
This is the part people usually discover too late. Here’s the simple version.
1) Electrical CoC (Certificate of Compliance)
A CoC is a legal document confirming an electrical installation has been inspected and tested and is compliant. It’s commonly required before property sale/transfer, and it’s also required when electrical work involves additions or alterations.
Also important: the Department of Employment and Labour explicitly warns that a registered contractor may only issue a CoC after proper inspection/testing, and may not issue on behalf of an unregistered person.
2) “Registered person” (who is actually allowed to certify)
In practice, certification is tied to being a properly registered/authorised person (often referred to as a wireman’s licence / registered person in the industry). If you need a CoC, ask upfront:
“Are you legally registered to inspect, test, and issue the CoC for this work?”
3) CoC validity (the part everyone argues about)
A useful way to think about it:
- For transfer purposes, the regulations are commonly applied as “not older than 2 years”.
- For day-to-day living, it remains relevant until changes are made — if you alter/add to the installation, you’ll typically need a supplementary CoC for that work.
4) Solar / inverter / PV additions (very common now)
If you’re adding solar PV or inverter equipment, treat it as a compliance-sensitive electrical project. Industry guidance stresses that PV work should be under the supervision of properly qualified electrical persons, and the City of Cape Town’s guidance notes you should request the original electrical CoC from the registered installation electrician.
Pricing: what to budget for an electrician in South Africa
Pricing varies by city, travel distance, urgency, and complexity — but most homeowners will see a familiar structure:
Typical cost structure
- Call-out fee (travel + initial assessment)
- Labour (hourly)
- Materials/parts
- After-hours premium (nights, weekends, public holidays)
- Specialist testing / fault finding time (often where the real value is)
Typical ranges you’ll see (guideline)
- Labour: roughly R350 – R700/hour for many standard jobs (average often around the mid-range), with higher rates for specialised work.
- Emergency call-out: often around R600 – R900 (and may or may not include the first hour — always ask).
A realistic “small job” expectation
Even when it sounds simple, budget for a call-out + 1–2 hours labour plus parts. If you have a few small fixes, bundling them into one visit often saves money.
10 Genuinely helpful electrician FAQ's
- What’s the difference between “the power tripped” and “earth leakage tripped”?
A normal breaker trip usually points to overload or a circuit fault. Earth leakage trips when it detects current leaking to earth (often moisture, insulation breakdown, or a faulty appliance). If earth leakage trips repeatedly, it needs proper fault finding. - How do I figure out if it’s my appliance or the house wiring?
A safe starting point is to unplug high-load appliances and see if the trip stops — but if trips continue (or you see heat/burning smells), stop testing and get an electrician. The correct method is measured testing, not guesswork. - Why does my plug socket feel warm?
Warmth can mean a loose connection, overload, poor contact, or damaged wiring — all of which can create heat and become dangerous. Book it in sooner rather than later. - My lights flicker when I use the kettle/microwave — is that normal?
Occasional minor dimming can happen, but persistent flickering/dimming can signal voltage drop, loose connections, overloaded circuits, or neutral issues. If it’s happening across rooms, get it checked. - Do I need a dedicated circuit for an oven/hob/geyser/heat pump?
Very often, yes — these are high-load items and are safer (and usually more reliable) with correct isolation and wiring sized for the load. An electrician should assess and advise based on your DB capacity. - What’s involved in a DB (distribution board) upgrade?
Typically: inspection of existing circuits, correcting unsafe/incorrect connections, adding/replacing breakers, ensuring earthing and bonding are correct, labelling circuits, and testing. DB work should be done carefully and properly documented. - Do I need a new CoC after renovations?
If the renovation involved electrical additions/alterations (new circuits, moved points, new DB work, solar/inverter additions), you’ll usually need a supplementary CoC for that work. - How long does a CoC take to issue?
It depends on how many defects are found. A proper CoC requires inspection and testing — if repairs are needed, it may take longer. Be wary of instant “paper CoCs” with no testing. - Does an electrical CoC cover everything in the house?
A CoC generally relates to the electrical installation and its safety/compliance (distribution, wiring, earthing, bonding, etc.). If you have specialised systems (like solar PV or an electric fence), ask what additional documentation is required for those. - What should I ask an electrician before they start?
Three questions cover most issues:
- “What do you think is the likely cause, and how will you test it?”
- “Is this priced as call-out + hourly + materials, and what counts as after-hours?”
- “Will this work require a CoC or supplementary CoC — and are you registered to issue it?”
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