“TV Remote not working/responding“—a simple and quite common issue for smart TV users, especially those who use Westinghouse (a reputable old TV brand.)
However, fixing this issue is often very easy.
Sometimes it just requires a simple reset or thorough cleaning of the battery contacts.
Here we go! Let’s dive into the troubleshooting…
Why your Westinghouse TV Remote isn’t Working?
Your Westinghouse TV remote isn’t working because the batteries are damaged, signal is blocked or the TV is experiencing a temporry system glitch.
Typically, when this happen, TV’s temporary internal glitch is the primary culprit.
How to fix Westinghouse TV Remote not working?
- Open the battery compartment on the back of the remote.
- Remove both batteries.
- Leave the batteries out of the remote for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- During this time, press and hold any button for 10 seconds.
- Once done, put the batteries back in and test the remote to see if it is working properly.
Step 1: Check the remote for continuity
This is the first step you need to take before performing any other troubleshooting.
This will let you know whether the remote is malfunctioning.
Here’s how you can check for continuity:
- Look at the remote through your phone’s camera app.
- Press any button or a set of buttons on the remote.
- A red light will blink through the camera screen with each button pressed on a functional remote.
If no red light flashes, the remote or it’s batteries are damaged. If this is the case, you will need to replace the batteries or the remote entirely.
But if the remote does have continuity, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Soft reset the TV
If the test proves that the remote has continuity, problems are with the TV.
Either the TV is experiencing an internal temporary system glitch, or the remote disconnected from the pairing mode.
Disconnect the TV from the power outlet completely. Wait for 5 minutes. During this time, press and hold the TV’s power button for about 30 seconds.
Once done, plug the TV back in and turn it on. Now, check if the problem has been fixed.
If not, the problem might be with the remote. Proceed to the next step.
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Step 2: Clean the IR sensor and reprogramme the remote again
In 90% of cases, a power reset fixes this issue. But if not in your case, first clean both the remote and the TV’s IR sensor and then reprogram the remote again.
Take a soft cloth and wipe off any dust from the IR sender and receiver sensor on both the TV and remote. Then do the following:
- Power off and then power back on the TV.
- Take a step back from it, about one meter.
- Point the remote at the TV.
- Press the “OK” button once on the remote.
- Keep pressing the key until a message on the screen confirms that the remote control has been identified.
Now, test the remote again using some menu commands. I hope this fixes the issue. Let me know in the comment box.
If the TV doesn’t get the proper signal from the remote, it will not respond. Ensure that the TV gets the proper signal without interruption. Try moving your TV to a different place or pointing the remote correctly at the TV’s sensor.
Step 5: Reset the Remote’s battery
This step is for those whose remote doesn’t have continuity.
Sometimes, dust or gunk can accumulate in the battery contacts and prevent the battery from connecting with the remote properly.
Completely take out the batteries from the remote. Clean the charging ports with a soft cloth and rubbing alcohol to remove any dust or gunk accumulation.
After that, hold down the power button on the remote for 30 seconds. Now, put the batteries back into your remote and see if it works.
If resetting the battery and cleaning the contacts doesn’t fix the problem, replace the battery. You can buy a new set of batteries on Amazon or from any local vendor.
F.A.Q.s
Q: How do I reset my Westinghouse TV remote?
To reset your Westinghouse TV remote, remove the batteries and press each button on the remote a few times to discharge any residual power.
Then, reinsert the batteries and try using the remote again.
If this doesn’t work, consult the user manual for specific instructions on resetting the remote for your particular model.
Q: Can a universal remote be used with a Westinghouse TV?
Yes, in most cases, a universal remote can be used with a Westinghouse TV.
However, not all universal remotes are compatible with all TV models. Make sure to check the compatibility of the universal remote with your specific Westinghouse TV model.
Additionally, you may need to program the universal remote using the appropriate codes or follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setup.
Q: I’ve already tried replacing the batteries in my Westinghouse TV remote, but it still isn’t working. What else can I do?
If replacing the batteries didn’t fix the problem, try cleaning the battery contacts inside the remote with a small amount of rubbing alcohol and a cotton swab.
Dust and debris can accumulate on the contacts and interfere with the electrical connection.
Additionally, make sure there are no obstacles blocking the remote’s infrared signal, such as furniture or other objects in the way.
Q: Can I use my phone as a remote control for my Westinghouse TV?
Yes, it’s possible to use your smartphone as a remote control for your Westinghouse TV.
Many Westinghouse TVs are compatible with mobile apps that allow you to control the TV with your phone.
Just search for “Westinghouse TV remote” in your phone’s app store to see if there’s an app available for your specific TV model.
Q: My Westinghouse TV remote works, but some of the buttons don’t. What can I do?
Possible that they’re simply worn out and need to be replaced. Or there may be an issue with the circuit board inside the remote that’s preventing certain buttons from working.
In either case, you may need to either replace the remote or have it repaired by a professional.
Abdul Kader, a handy guy and experienced founder of a TV repair shop in Gulshan, Dhaka, Bangladesh. He is mainly an expert in understanding and repairing different types of issues with Smart TVs and providing helpful insights on how to keep them in good working order. Read his Full Story.