When it comes to mobile phones, most of us would feel lost these days without knowing that ours is safely in our pocket. Our phones allow us to keep in contact with the world whenever and wherever, which is why there aren’t many things that are more frustrating that having no signal when trying to send or receive texts and calls.

Before you start waving your phone around in the air, here’s a look at some of the main culprits when it comes to losing signal and the things you can do to avoid them:

Blackspots

Moving to a higher floor can help with phone signal (Image source: Ryan Pouncy via StockSnap)

According to this article on the Metro, kitchens are the worst rooms in the house when it comes to getting signal on your mobile. The research carried out by Global Wireless Solutions shows that 40 per cent of people of Britain suffer from a mobile blackspot in their home, and that Bristol, Liverpool, and Cardiff are some of the worst cites in the UK when it comes to signal loss.

It’s no surprise that being inside or in a built-up city can hinder the signal on your phone – materials like concrete, wire mesh and all the other stuff buildings are made up off are major signal blockers. Although it may seem obvious, even simple things like moving from a basement to a higher floor, or positioning yourself by an open window are easy ways to help you gain some bars back on your phone.

Phone Cases

Think before you buy: certain phone cases may harm your signal (Image source: Dariusz Sankowski via StockSnap)

According to this article on the Houston Chronicle, phone cases that are made of metal or those that feature magnetic clips are more likely to hinder the signal from your phone. When a case features metal, the thick material can block the radio waves comes from the antenna inside your mobile – Apple themselves have even warned that magnetic clips may cause some interference with iPhone signal!
It’s important to bear this in mind when shopping for a new phone case: as mobile technology is advancing, so too are the products that go with them. Take the highly anticipated new device from Samsung; companies like tech21 have developed their own unique FlexShock™ material for their Samsung Galaxy S7 cases. The Evo Mesh Case ensures that your phone signal will go undisturbed as well as protecting the phone itself.

Wi-Fi Calling

Living in a remote area or the morning commute on the underground are both culprits when it comes to losing signal. Luckily, mobile technology is rapidly getting more advanced, and these advancements now include the introduction of Wi-Fi calling. TechRadar announced in September last year that EE and Vodaphone are rolling out the use of Wi-Fi calling for their customers, with other companies expected to follow suit in the future. As long as you are able to connect to Wi-Fi, you will be able to make and receive calls even when in those hard to reach areas – no signal needed!

Mobile Phone Towers

How close you are to the nearest mobile phone tower can affect the strength of the signal you’ll receive on your phone. OpenSignal have developed an app that enables you see which tower your phone is currently connected to, as well as the signal strength of all the towers in your nearby area – meaning you will be able to point yourself in the right direction to get better signal. The OpenSignal website also features an interactive map that allows you to search for the signal strength for all networks at any location, which could come in handy when choosing your mobile provider.

Signal Boosters

If you do happen to live in an area with poor signal, there is always the option of purchasing a signal booster for your home. Vodaphone, for example, offer their customers the SureSignal, which works by connecting to the broadband internet in your house to create a stronger 3G signal. A signal booster also comes in handy for large families, as it allows more phones to use 3G signal for making calls without comprising the strength.

So next time you find yourself faced with the dreaded ‘no signal’ sign, don’t panic. Take some of these suggestions on how to get a better signal into consideration and you’ll be sure to have a frustration-free, full-signal day!