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TV Has Distorted Color (Causes and How to Fix)

I’ve been an avid TV watcher for years, and lately I’ve been noticing something strange – the colors on my screen seem a bit off. After some digging, I’ve discovered that there is a real issue with the colors on TVs nowadays – they have become distorted. In this post, I’ll explore the causes of this issue and show you how to fix it.

Generally, faded colors on your TV result from loose or damaged cables, clogged input ports, weak TV signals, and outdated software.

IssuePossible CausesSolution(s)
1. Distorted Colors on TVLoose/damaged cablesCheck and secure all cables; replace damaged cables
Clogged video input portsClean input ports with a microfiber towel; seek technician assistance if damaged
Weak TV signalCheck signal strength in TV settings; report the issue to your cable operator
Magnetic interferenceKeep speakers at least three feet away from your TV
Outdated TV softwareCheck for software updates in TV settings and update if necessary
Insufficient power supplyVerify the voltage supply; consider purchasing a voltage regulator device
Incorrect color settingsAdjust tint, backlight, and temperature tone settings in the Expert Settings menu
Eco Sensor featureDisable the Eco Sensor or Ambient Light Detection feature in the TV settings

Why Does Your TV Have Distorted Color?

Like other modern electronic devices, TVs aren’t impervious to technical issues. Here are the common causes of blurry images on your TV and their easy fixes:

  1. Loose/Damaged Cables

The most common culprit of distorted color on TV is loose cables. Therefore, you should make sure that the cables are plugged in correctly. Try to unplug all cables and plug them back in tightly.  

In addition, examine the cables for cuts or splinters. If you spot damage, it’s time to replace them with new ones.

  1. Clogged Video Input Ports

Video input ports offer more options when it comes to streaming. For instance, you can connect an HDMI cable, an Apple TV box, and Amazon Fire Stick. However, input ports can easily accumulate dust.

Unfortunately, dirty video input ports can result in TV discoloration. To solve the issue, unplug all cables from the input ports. Then, gently clean the ports with a microfiber towel.

Moreover, inspect the ports for damage. If video input ports are broken, reaching out to repair technicians is your best option. 

  1. Weak TV Signal

Typically, a weak TV signal is a common problem if you’re using a TV box. Weak TV signals can cause the TV screen to have faded colors. 

To check the signal, navigate to TV settings. Select Device Care under the Support tab. Then, choose Signal Information from the Self Diagnosis menu. If the TV signal is poor, report the issue to your cable operator. 

  1. Magnetic Interference

Another issue that results in color distortion is magnetic interference. Speaker magnets can affect the display and sound function of your TV. Hence, if you place your speakers near your TV, it can cause color and sound distortion.

To prevent discoloration issues, keep your speakers at least three feet away from your TV.  

Furthermore, CRT TVs are prone to magnetic interference. However, you don’t have to worry about this issue if your TV is LED, LCD, or 4K.

  1. Outdated TV Software

Outdated TV software can lead to color distortion. Therefore, you need to verify if your device has the latest software.

You can open Settings on your TV, go to Support, and click Software Update. If a new software update is available, click Update Now.

  1. Insufficient Power Supply

Another reason why your TV has a distorted color is its insufficient power supply. On average, TVs need a voltage supply between 100 to 240 volts

Voltages that are too low or too high can prevent the LCD or LED panel from functioning properly. The panels might not be able to generate the right color patterns, which then leads to color distortion.

Verify if your TV is getting the right voltage by checking the power distribution panels in your house. Better yet, purchase a voltage regulator device.

  1. Incorrect Color Settings

An incorrect color setting can affect the display function of your TV. Brightness and contrast don’t usually create viewing issues. However, incorrect configurations of tint, backlight, and temperature tone can affect the colors on your TV screen.

To set the correct color configurations, go to Settings and choose the Picture menu. Then, you’ll find different color configurations in the Expert Settings

Next, fix the intensity levels of the tint and backlight. You can adjust the backlight according to your preferences. Keep the tint at zero though.

Then, set the Digital Clean View to Low, change the Color Tone to Standard, and turn off the Contrast Enhancer. Bear in mind that the Contrast Enhancer can lead to oversaturation if you turn it on.

  1. Eco Sensor Feature

Smart TVs, like Samsung TVs, have an Eco Sensor. The feature automatically adjusts the color quality of the TV according to the intensity of the light in the room.

Although Eco Sensor is a great feature, it can malfunction from time to time and cause distorted images. Hence, it’ll be helpful if you disable it.

To do so, go to Settings and select the General tab. Then, choose Eco Solution. Lastly, turn off Ambient Light Detection.

Wrapping Up

Typically, distorted colors on your TV are a result of loose cables, broken TV input ports, weak TV signals, and insufficient power supply.

To solve the issues, you should ensure there isn’t damage to the cables and input ports. In addition, verify if your TV is getting the right voltage.

For damage repair, you can hire a repair technician. Additionally, you can reach out to your cable operator if you’re having a poor TV signal.