RCA TV Won’t Turn On – Repair Guide 2025

It’s annoying and frustrating to have a TV that is turning on, especially if you don’t know what’s wrong with it.

The problem might be small or major. However, before taking it to a repair shop, you must first determine it on your own.

The common reasons why your RCA TV won’t turn on include a defective power cord, a stuck power button, poor connection, and blown fuse.

RCA-TV-Wont-Turn-On

You don’t need to know the exact cause to troubleshoot it yourself, but you need a guide to help you fix it quickly.

Therefore, today, we will provide step-by-step instructions on troubleshooting the RCA TV that won’t turn on.

RCA TV Not Turning On

Check out the 5 smart DIY solutions to fix the RCA TV problem.

No.Problem DescriptionDIY Solution
1Power Cord is BlownReplace the damaged or frayed power cord with a new one. Ensure it’s inserted properly into the TV.
2Stuck Power ButtonUse a flat-headed screwdriver, coin, or paper clip to gently push the power button. Check the remote control.
3Short Circuit in Your TelevisionCheck and reconnect the round metal connectors (pins) in the power cord. Tighten any loose internal wires.
4Poor Connection Between Remote Control & TVReplace remote control batteries and check for proper signals.
5Check the FuseReplace the fuse inside the TV if it’s damaged.
6Check the Surge ProtectorRemove the surge protector and plug the TV directly into the socket.
7Check for HDMI CableReconnect the HDMI cable after unplugging the TV.
8Clean Your TV and Make it Dust FreeWipe down the TV with a damp cloth and blow away dust and debris.
9Reset Your RCA TVPress and hold the reset button for 10 seconds. Unplug and plug the TV back in.
10Check the ManualFollow the TV’s manual instructions for maintenance.

1. Your Power Cord is Blown:

The first thing you should check is the power cord. If the power cord is damaged or frayed, it could be one of the reasons why your RCA TV won’t turn on.

So, simply replace it with a new one if your power cord is faulty. Also, ensure the tip of the power cord is inserted into the back of your television.

2. Check the Power Button:

If your RCA TV is not turning on because the power button is stuck, here is what you need to do:

  • Try using a flat-headed screwdriver or even a coin to push the button gently.
  • If this doesn’t work, use a thin object such as a paper clip or straightened paper to push the button firmly.
  • After that, take the battery out of the remote control and press the power button for at least 10 seconds without holding any buttons.
  • Then, put the battery back in the remote control and press the power button again.

Does your RCA TV turn on now? If not, try pushing the power button again using a different method.

If you don’t succeed in fixing this problem yourself, simply call an expert to do it for you.

3. Check if there is a Short Circuit in Your Television:

If you still can’t get your RCA TV to turn on even after trying all the above tips, then it could be there is a short circuit in your television.

To check this, simply remove the back cover of your television and check the two round metal connectors (known as the pins) that are connected to the power cord.

If one of them is not properly connected, there is a short circuit, and your RCA TV will never turn on.

Certainly, replace the faulty pin with a new one and then try again. Also, make sure none of the wires inside the television are loose.

If they are, it will create a short circuit and the same result. So, simply tighten all the wires until they are snug.

RCA TV ISSUES

4. Poor Connection Between Remote Control And Your TV:

If you are using a universal remote control, try pressing the button on the remote control with the letter “L” on it.

This should allow you to check if the connection between your remote control and your television is working properly.

If it doesn’t work, then your remote control is not sending the proper signals to your television, and your RCA TV will never turn on.

In conclusion, simply replace the batteries in your remote control and then try again.  

5. Check the Fuse: 

There is a fuse inside the back of the television on older RCA TVs, which controls the power going to the set.

In some cases, this fuse can get damaged due to age. If this is the case, simply replace it and then try again.  

If the fuse is OK, and your RCA TV is still not turning on, then check the next possible issue.

6. Check the Surge Protector:

Surge protectors prevent surges in electrical current from damaging your home electronics.

However, if a surge protector is faulty, it can cause your RCA TV to stop working altogether.

So, simply remove the surge protector from the wall and then plug your television back into the socket.

If it works then the problem is with the surge protector, and you should get another one. If it does not work, then the problem lies elsewhere.

7. Check for HDMI Cable:

Fixing RCA TV Not turning on

RCA TVs have an HDMI input, which allows you to connect your HDTV to a cable box or satellite receiver.

Sometimes, your cable or satellite company can block the connection between your RCA TV and your equipment. So, it may not allow your TV to turn on.

To check if this is the case:

  • Simply unplug your RCA TV from the wall
  • Remove the RCA plugs from the ends of the HDMI cable
  • And then reconnect everything.

If your cable or satellite provider is blocking the connection, then this will allow you to enjoy your programming without any glitches.

If all these steps do not work, you should contact an electrician to check your home’s wiring and ensure it is OK. 

8. Clean Your TV and Make it Dust Free:

Dust and dirt can cause a lot of problems for your television set.

First, it can cause it to stop working altogether. Also, dust and dirt can cause static electricity, damaging your TV.

So, it is important that you keep your TV clean.

To clean the TV:

  • Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth.
  • Ensure that the TV set is completely free of dust and debris.
  • Then, blow the setup with air from a hose or a shop vacuum.
  • This will make your RCA TV ready to use again.

9. Reset Your RCA TV: 

RCA TVs have a simple reset button on the front of the unit.

Press and hold this button for at least 10 seconds. Then, unplug your TV from the wall and then plug it back in.

After doing this, you should be able to turn your TV back on. If this fails, you should seek the help of an electrician. 

10. Check the Manual:

Your RCA manual will probably contain instructions on how to keep your TV in good shape.

Follow these instructions if they are there. Otherwise, you may need to contact an electrician.

That’s it. These tips will ensure that your RCA television remains in good working order for a long period.

Hopefully, you won’t have to use most of these tips. But, if any of them become necessary, you should know how to take care of your RCA TV.  

If you have decided to buy a new TV, here is a list of the Worst TV brands you should know before buying.

The Importance of a Good Electrical Connection on Your RCA TV

A good electrical connection on your RCA TV is crucial for your TV to function properly.

The connection quality corresponds to the quality of the picture and sound you get from the TV.

For example, you will get clear and crisp images with your RCA TV if you have a good connection.

However, if your television is not properly connected to the power outlet, you might have poor-quality images.

The cause for many TVs going out of commission is a loose or faulty electrical connection.

A loose or faulty connection can affect the picture and sound you get from your TV because it affects its power source. A properly connected RCA cable must be securely fastened at both ends.

Before buying an RCA TV with an in-built power supply, ensure it has a proper electrical connection system in place. Ensure that both the input and output are correct before making your purchase.

Conclusion:

I want to say that sometimes, even though something appears to be working fine, there may still be a minor glitch that you have not detected.

And this may be why your television isn’t operating properly. So, after going through these steps, I hope you can fix your RCA TV that won’t turn on.

If your television is still not working, there is very likely something else wrong with it.

In that case, it would be better for you to get it checked out by a professional. Thanks for reading the complete guide. Hopefully, it was a help in fixing your problem.

If it was not, feel free to message me and tell me what else I can do to help you.

Steven Settles Author

Steven Settles is an ISCET-certified master in appliance repair. He has aced the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam, showcasing his exceptional diagnostic and repair skills. With an in-depth understanding of the latest repair technologies and a keen eye on evolving industry standards, Steven is a go-to expert for any appliance issue.

1 thought on “RCA TV Won’t Turn On – Repair Guide 2025”

  1. You information on the subject is great and informative but the last part about dropping a question with one of your technician is a joke it says knowing about the 5 bucks you want to get a answer you would like to get answered but the reading was good 👍

    Reply

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