How to Fix A TV With No Picture But Sound [Fixed]

You get yourself comfy for a movie night, the kernels for the popcorn are ready, and it’s time to take a break from it all. 

As you turn on the TV, the sound is there but the screen is black. Most annoying, no? If you’ve ever been in this situation, it is not just you. 

Several owners of televisions have encountered the perplexing case of a TV working but with no visuals. 

The scope of the problem is addressed in this guide and the proper solutions are also provided.

Understanding the Problem: Causes of No Picture but Sound

But before we go into looking at the solutions, it is important to first know the reasons why your TV might have sound but just no video. 

Here are some of the more frequent reasons:

1. Loose or Damaged Cables

Most of the time, it is very easy to believe something, and it is quite likely to be the reality.

One of these cables—HDMI, coaxial, or power—may be loose or broken, which can prevent your devices from transmitting signals to your TV.

2. Issues with the TV Settings

Another scenario is that there is likely a problem with the settings of the television itself. If the input used is not the one that should be chosen or the appropriate adjustments have not been made, there will be no picture..

3. Faulty Backlight

If the backlight of the TV is burnt out, even if sound is present, the display cannot be seen. 

This is particularly true in the case of LCD and LED TV sets.

4. Hardware Malfunctions

There could be a problem with some of the internal parts such as the mainboard, T-Con board, or even the screen itself in some cases. 

This is normally more complex and might warrant the help of a trained professional.

5. Software Glitches

Other times, it could be that your TV just needs a reset. 

Because of various software problems, there may be a need to address issues such as a black screen.

6. External Devices

Such a problem might as well be caused by cable boxes, gaming consoles, or streaming devices connected to your TV.

7. Input Source Conflicts

In case the TV is tuned to the wrong input, it will cause no picture display but the sound can still be heard.

With this information in hand, let us look at the steps that can be followed to try and resolve the problem that has been outlined above.

 

Troubleshooting Steps to Fix a TV with No Picture but Sound

Step 1: Check Your Connections

Start with the basics—check all the cables for tightness and any loose strands. Here’s how:

Examine Cables: 

Look at all the connections between the TV and the external items. For example, HDMI, wires, VGA, and power cords.

Reseat Cables: 

Usually, taking it out and putting it back again works.

Employ Different Ports: 

If your TV has several HDMI ports, use the other ports and see if the whole problem changes.

Personal Anecdote: 

 

I once experienced a similar issue when I hastily set up my TV after moving houses. 

 

It turned out that the HDMI cable was slightly loose, and after a quick adjustment, I was back in business!

 

Step 2: Verify TV Settings

 

Next, navigate through your TV settings to ensure everything is configured correctly.

 

Input Source: 

 

Make sure you’ve selected the correct input source that corresponds with the device you’re using (e.g., HDMI 1, HDMI 2).

 

Picture Settings: 

 

Sometimes, picture settings might inadvertently be altered. Look for settings like “Picture Off” or similar modes that may have been accidentally activated.

 

Step 3: Conduct a Power Cycle

 

A good old-fashioned power cycle can sometimes work wonders.

 

Turn Off the TV: 

 

Unplug your TV from the wall outlet.

 

Wait: 

 

Leave it unplugged for about 5-10 minutes.

 

Plug It Back In: 

Reconnect the TV to the power source and turn it back on.

 

This process allows the TV to reset any temporary glitches that might be causing the no-picture issue.

 

Step 4: Change the Extending Devices

Let’s try and examine the external devices to confirm where the problem lies:

Remove All Devices That Are Externally Connected: 

To do this, simply disconnect all external devices that are plugged into the television.

Test the Integrated Features of the TV: 

Attempt some of the TV’s integrated features such as built-in streaming apps to check if there is a picture available.

Connect Different Devices: 

If the built-in features still don’t work, connect a different device such as a DVD player, and see if that resolves the problem.

Step 5: Backlight Test

If you believe that there is a backlight issue, do the following;

Turn on the TV: 

Grab a flashlight and use it to focus on the screen from a short distance.

Observe: 

If there are images or a silhouette that does not allow smooth viewing when the beam is directed, the issue is a case of backlighting.

If the backlight is indeed faulty, it is necessary to have it fixed or replaced by a professional.

Step 6: Factory Reset the TV

You can also opt for a factory reset on your TV as a last option before going for professional help. This is how you go about it: 

Go to settings: 

Using the remote, go to the settings icon.

Find Reset Option: 

This option should be labeled as Factory Reset or Reset to default factory settings.

Confirm Reset: 

Follow the prompts and the instructions to reset the device.

All personalized settings will be deleted upon completion of this step. So be ready to go through all the settings again

 

Step 7: Seek Professional Help

If none of the above steps have worked, it is advisable to see a professional. 

The cause could be a fault within the internal circuitry. Such include the mainboard or T-Con board.

Research Repair Services: 

Identify and contact reliable repair services in your local area.

Warranty Check: 

If the warranty period is not over, get in touch with the manufacturer of the TV for its repairs.

FAQs: Common Questions about No Picture but Sound Issues

 

How about a software update to solve the picture problem, will it help?

Sure, now and then, software updates can help resolve certain bugs that may hinder display. It may be worth checking the manufacturer’s webpage for these updates.

I have sound but my TV does not show any image when it is on, what software could be the issue?

This could be due to some problems, the most obvious of which are a hardware defect or a broken backlight. 

Please attempt the troubleshooting procedures described to find out the problem.

How do I know if I have a cracked screen on my TV?

You can perform the flashlight test as mentioned in August earlier. You may not get any images of the TV, it’s likely some hardware-related issues that may be related to the screen.

Should I feel good about opening my TV to repair it if it is broken?

If one is not used to working with electronics, I think it is better that one does not undertake the repairs. This is because TVs have high-voltage parts that can be lethal.

What can I do if my television is in warranty period?

Get in touch with the manufacturer, or the store where you bought the TV. 

They should be able to advise you on how to go about the matters of repair or exchange

Conclusion

It is usually annoying to deal with a situation when the TV has sound but no picture, and instead of acting out, you should try to follow a logical pattern to fix the problem.

 Always look for connections and settings first, perform a reboot of the device, and try and look for damage in the hardware or software as a last option. 

If none of these approaches work, do not hesitate to call a certified expert for help. Most importantly, if you know what caused the problem. 

You can fix it easily, and you will be watching your favorite programs in a matter of seconds.