YouTube TV Not Showing Local Channels: Fixes and Causes

Discover missing local channels and bring them back in view!

While YouTube TV boasts an extensive array of channels, it’s really annoying when you can’t find your local channels, especially if you watch news or sports exclusive to your region.

Now there could be a bunch of reasons why this happens and in today’s guide, we will explore the same, and help you fix the issue.

So, without any further delay, let’s get straight into it. 

youtube tv not showing local channels_ Fixes and Causes

Why My YouTube TV is not Showing Local Channels and How to Fix It

If your YouTube TV isn’t displaying local channels, there could be several reasons why this is happening:

  • Bad internet connection
  • Specific channel issue
  • Streaming with too many devices
  • Weak internet connection
  • Platform issue

Quick Answer: Sometimes, glitches can be resolved simply by refreshing the system so try restarting both your app and device. Additionally, check the status of YouTube TV to make sure if the problem is from their end.

Method 1: Troubleshoot Internet Connection

YouTube TV needs a speedy and stable internet connection to stream both local channels and live television.

So, check and improve the internet speed on the device to fix the issue.

Method 2: Sign out and Sign in Again

You might come across this problem when your account information gets mixed up or your settings in the YouTube TV app aren’t set up properly.

Sign out and sign in back to your account to resolve it.

1. Press the Home button on the Roku remote and select YouTube TV.

press home button

2. Select your profile icon to open the accounts page, select your account, and click SIGN OUT.

3. Wait for some and then type your credentials to SIGN IN again.

Also Read: Fix YouTube TV Buffering Issue on Browser

Method 3: Change Your Home Area

Most problems with YouTube TV are often related to the Home Area settings as the service is limited to certain locations only.

Here’s how to change it:

1. Open the YouTube TV app on your TV.

2. Click on your profile photo and select Location.

3. Choose Update next to the Current playback area.

select Update | YouTube TV not showing local channels

4. Next, on your phone, visit tv.youtube.com/verify.

5. Allow the website to access your device’s location to update your current playback area.

Method 4: Disable VPN

Although VPNs offer privacy protection and bypass geo-location restrictions which help you enjoy shows from anywhere in the world, they may not always be compatible with YouTube TV

It might cause issues with local channels not showing up and working on your YouTube TV, so, we suggest you disable the VPN service.

Also Read: Is GAC Family on YouTube TV?

Method 5: Clear YouTube TV Cache Data

Corrupt cache data can affect the working of the YouTube TV app on the device. 

If you are using a smart TV, follow these steps to clear out those files:

1. Turn on the TV and navigate to the Settings panel.

select settings

2. Scroll down, select Apps, and choose YouTube TV from the list.

3. Scroll down to select Clear cache and confirm by selecting OK.

Method 6: Update the App and Host Device

Updating YouTube TV on your Roku TV can remove any persisting bugs in the app that might be causing problems. 

1. Turn on your Roku TV, highlight YouTube TV, and press the star button on the remote.

2. Next, choose Check for updates from the menu on the screen.

select check for updates | YouTube TV not showing local channels

If there are any updates, it will start downloading them.

You also need to update your Roku TV. 

1. Press the home button and go to Settings.

2. Go to System Update from the menu on the right side of your screen.

3. Press the OK button on the remote and select Check now to see if an update is available for Roku TV.

select check now

Also Read: How to Remove YouTube from Smart TV

Method 7: Use an Alternative if a Specific Channel Is Not Working

You may find instances where a specific channel fails to stream on your YouTube TV, which is a common issue with prominent channels like ESPN.

YouTube TV has officially acknowledged this problem. By the time this issue is resolved, you can stream any alternative channel so that you do not miss any show.

Method 8: Contact Support

If none of the above solutions help, the last option remains is to contact the YouTube TV support team for further assistance.

Also Read: How to Cancel YouTube TV Subscription

Can I Get Local Channels on YouTube TV

Yes, in most areas, you can access local channels on YouTube TV.

YouTube TV offers a variety of local channels such as ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and others, depending on your location.

However, the availability of local channels may vary depending on where you live which you can check by entering your Zip code.

Dealing with YouTube TV not showing local channels can be frustrating.

But we hope our guide helped fix the issue.

If you have any queries or suggestions, let us know in the comments, and stay tuned to TechCult for more such troubleshooting guides.

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