What should be checked when inspecting satellite dishes?

When inspecting satellite dishes, one of the crucial aspects to verify is that the weather caps are in place and in good condition. Weather caps serve an important function by protecting the internal components of the dish, such as the LNB (Low Noise Block downconverter) and wiring, from moisture and environmental elements. If these caps are damaged or missing, it can lead to water ingress, which may cause serious electrical issues or degraded performance of the satellite system. Ensuring that weather caps are intact helps maintain the overall functionality and longevity of the satellite dish.

While factors like the color of the dish, availability of cables, and obstructions in the surrounding area are relevant in certain contexts—for instance, aesthetics, cable management, and reception quality, respectively—none are as critical as ensuring that the weather caps are in appropriate condition, which directly relates to the dish's operational integrity and durability.