Spectrum offers cable TV, internet, voice, and mobile services to millions of customers across the United States. With fast internet speeds and robust channel lineups, Spectrum provides some of the best home services available. This detailed guide will walk you through every step required to self install Spectrum services in your home.
Whether you currently have Spectrum and want to set up additional services or you’re switching from another provider, follow these instructions to smoothly integrate Spectrum’s offerings into your home.
Step 1: Determine Spectrum Services Available at Your Address
Spectrum availability can vary by location, so your first step is verifying they provide service in your neighborhood. You also need to check what specific internet speeds and TV packages are available.
Go to the Spectrum website and enter your complete address. This will show you available internet plans at your location.
Some areas may have the full range of options:
- Internet 100 with 100 Mbps speeds
- Internet 200 with 200 Mbps
- Internet Ultra with 400 Mbps
- Internet Gig with 940 Mbps
Other locations may have more limited plans available depending on Spectrum’s technology infrastructure. Compare the speeds to your household’s internet usage – how many users, devices, and simultaneous streams. More speed provides better performance but costs more per month.
Next, check the TV offerings. Spectrum divides their packages into:
- TV Select – 125+ channels like local broadcast, news, and top cable stations.
- TV Silver – 175+ channels add more sports, lifestyle, and network options
- TV Gold – 200+ channels with premium movie channels and regional sports
Additionally, you can add premium channels like HBO and Showtime for an extra monthly fee. Spectrum also offers DVR service, HD channels, and access to the Spectrum TV app for live viewing.
Jot down notes on the specific plans offered at your address so you can choose what to order next.
Step 2: Select Your Desired Install Spectrum Internet and TV Bundle
Now that you know what’s available, it’s time to pick your Spectrum package. Consider factors like:
Internet Usage – Do you need ultra-fast speeds for gaming and 4K streaming? Or is basic web browsing and email access adequate? Match internet speeds to your household’s needs.
Number of TVs – Pick a TV package with enough channels for all household members. Add extras like HD and DVR if you have 3+ TVs.
Users and Devices – More family members and devices need faster internet speeds and channel options. Plan appropriately.
Promotional Pricing – Spectrum offers new customer deals like 12 months of discounted pricing. This can influence package selection.
Bundling – You can bundle TV and internet for a lower overall monthly rate. Add phone or mobile too.
Use the Spectrum package comparison tool online to customize your perfect bundle. See side-by-side pricing, channels, and added features.
As an example, you may pick Internet Ultra 400 Mbps speed with the Silver TV 175+ channel package. Add HD channels and modem rental for a complete bundle.
Step 3: Place Your Install Spectrum Order and Schedule Installation
When you’ve selected your services, it’s time to place your order. Spectrum offers self-installation kits so you can set up your own equipment. Professional installation is also available for an added fee.
Self-Installation Order Process
- Start order process on Spectrum website
- Enter your address to verify services
- Select internet speed and TV package
- Choose self-installation kit option
- Provide contact and billing details
- Pick date for equipment delivery
- Make first payment for deposit, fees, 1st month
- Receive confirmation email with order details
Spectrum will ship your self install Spectrum kit via UPS/FedEx. Track the shipment so you know exactly when it will arrive. The kit contains:
- Cable modem (supports WiFi)
- Coaxial cables
- Ethernet cable
- Power cords
- Splitters, terminators, accessories
- Instructions and quick start guide
Professional Installation Scheduling
If you opt for professional installation, you’ll schedule a 2-4 hour window when placing your order. Installers are available 7 days a week with some evening availability.
The installer will call the day before your scheduled date to confirm. Be prepared to provide access to all Install Spectrum connection points. The technician will handle all equipment setup and connections.
Step 4: Select Installation Location and Prep Your Home
While waiting for your kit or installation appointment, take time to prepare your home. This will ensure quick and smooth equipment setup.
Pick Modem Location
Decide on a central location in your home close to a coaxial outlet for installing your Spectrum modem. Consider:
- Clearance on all sides for ventilation and cables
- Away from heat sources like appliances or heating vents
- Avoid enclosed spaces like inside cabinets
- Accessible location for power source
- Centered location to distribute WiFi signal
Ideally, pick a spot in an open area on the main floor of your home.
Remove Old Equipment
If switching from another provider, uninstall all old equipment like modems, routers, cables, etc. This prevents interference with your new Install Spectrum modem.
Unplug devices and carefully remove them to avoid damaging outlets or cables. Coaxial outlets will need to be free to connect your Install Spectrum equipment.
Test Cabling and Outlets
Ensure coax outlets are working correctly before the install spectrum. Test with a splitter to check the signal at each outlet. Replace any damaged coaxial cables as needed.
Having functioning cabling cuts down installation time and avoids connection issues.
Clear Install Area
Clean and clear out the space around where the modem will be setup. Remove any furniture or decorations that may obstruct access.
This makes it quicker and easier to get the equipment installed properly.
Step 5: Connect New Spectrum Equipment
When your kit arrives or installer visits, it’s time to get your new equipment hooked up. Follow these steps to connect your Spectrum cable modem:
1. Connect Coax Cable
Use a coaxial cable to connect from the outlet on the wall to the input port on the Spectrum modem. Hand-tighten fittings to avoid damaging threads.
2. Connect Power
Plug the modem’s power cord into an electrical outlet, surge protector, or battery backup. Connect the cord to the power port on the modem.
3. Turn On and Activate
Press the power button on the modem to turn it on. Wait for the modem to fully boot up – up to 10 minutes. The lights will turn solid when it’s ready.
Open your browser and go to spectrum.net/activate to begin activation. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete setup.
4. Connect Devices
For wired devices, use an ethernet cable to connect your computer directly to a LAN port on the modem. For WiFi, connect to the modem’s wireless network name using the password provided during activation.
Refer to the modem lights and codes if you encounter any issues. You may need to reboot and restart the activation process. Call Spectrum support if problems continue.
Step 6: Complete Spectrum Account Setup
After your modem is activated and connected, complete the account setup process online:
- Go to spectrum.net and log in or create an account
- Agree to the Spectrum subscriber agreement
- Enter your billing details and payment method
- Set up autopay with a credit card
- Confirm your service address matches the install address
- Choose a Spectrum email address (@spectrum.net)
- Review account settings, personal info, security, notifications
This fully activates your services so TV programming and the internet will start functioning. The final step is connecting all your devices like smart TVs, streaming players, computers, and gaming consoles.
Step 7: Connect Devices and Enjoy Your Install Spectrum Services
With your install Spectrum services up and running, connect devices to your new internet and TV access:
For Internet
- Update WiFi network names and passwords on phones, tablets, and laptops.
- Connect smart home devices like doorbells, thermostats, and speakers.
- Run internet speed tests to verify performance.
- Configure wired connections for desktop PCs or gaming consoles.
For TV Service
- Scan for channels on each TV/streaming box.
- Review channel packages – customize favorites.
- Set up DVR recordings.
- Download Spectrum TV App for mobile access.
- Access on-demand programming and streaming.
If any devices have connectivity issues, double-check settings, reboot equipment, move devices closer to the modem, or contact tech support.
Congratulations on a successful self-installation! Enjoy your shiny new Spectrum services. Reach out to customer support with any questions.
Install Spectrum Self-Installation FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about installing Spectrum services yourself:
Q1: What’s included in the self-install kit?
The kit contains a cable modem, coax and ethernet cables, power cords, splitters, instructions guide. No tools are required.
Q2: How long does self-install take?
Plan 1-2 hours from opening the box to activating service and connecting devices. Having functioning coax outlets pre-wired cuts down installation time.
Q3: Can I use my own modem and router?
You can use your own equipment, but Spectrum recommends their modems to ensure compatibility. Approved modems are listed on their site.
Q4: What if I need a cable outlet installed?
Spectrum offers in-home pro install Spectrum for new coax outlet installation for an added fee. This requires scheduling a technician visit.
Q5: Who do I contact for help during install Spectrum?
Spectrum provides 24/7 technical support via phone, online chat, social media, and community forums. Help is always available.
Q6: When will my services be up and running?
Internet and TV services activate within 60 minutes typically after you complete equipment setup and account activation.
Key Takeaways for Self Install Spectrum
- Research availability for internet speeds and TV packages
- Select your desired bundle and place your order
- Schedule free self-installation kit delivery
- Pick the central, accessible location to install the modem
- Connect the coaxial cable from the outlet to Spectrum modem
- Activate services and set up your Spectrum online account
- Connect devices to modem via ethernet or WiFi
- Enjoy fast internet speeds and cable TV service!
With this step-by-step guide, you can smoothly handle a DIY Spectrum installation and save money.
