How to Improve Cell Phone Reception

If you have poor cell phone reception, it not just be because you are in a remote area or shaded. Try these tips to improve the signal on your phone. Most are free, and some provide a big improvement for a small cost.

Fully Charge Your Phone

Don't allow your battery reserve to drop below power level 2. Start each day with your cell phone fully charged, and it will pick up signals more easily and clearly.

Talk from the Most Open Location

Move to the courtyard between buildings, to a window that faces over an open space instead of another building, or to the nearest street intersection to place your call. Large buildings are notorious for squelching cell phone signals.

Get a Better Antenna

Purchase a compatible high-frequency antenna from a retailer specializing in cell phone accessories. It can be attached while you wait.

Purchase and Use a Cell Phone Signal Booster

Also called cell repeaters, which are meant to improve home cell service. Place them outside on your balcony or on the roof of your house, connected by a cable to an amplifier and an internal antenna. They find a low-grade signal, strengthen it and send it through the area covered by the broadcast cell. They can improve service for all the cell phones in your home.