Few things are more frustrating than watching your phone struggle to maintain a signal in your own home. Dropped calls, slow-loading apps, and endless buffering are not only inconvenient, but they can also interfere with working remotely, keeping in touch with family, or simply staying connected in emergencies. While professional signal boosters are an option, you don’t always need to invest in expensive hardware. There are practical, DIY solutions that can significantly improve your mobile signal at home.

Find Your Signal Sweet Spot

Not all areas of your home receive the same signal strength. Walls, appliances, and even the construction materials of your house can interfere with mobile signals. Start by walking around with your phone to identify where reception is strongest. You can check your signal strength using your phone’s settings or a free app like OpenSignal (Android, iOS), which offers real-time readings.

Once you’ve found a stronger spot, consider moving your work-from-home setup or frequent calling area closer to it. Small changes in location can make a noticeable difference in call quality.

Enable Wi-Fi Calling

If your home Wi-Fi network is stable, Wi-Fi calling can solve many indoor signal problems. Most modern smartphones and carriers support Wi-Fi calling, allowing your phone to route calls and texts through your internet connection instead of relying solely on cellular towers.

To enable Wi-Fi calling:

• On iPhone, go to Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling and toggle it on.
• On Android, open Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Advanced > Wi-Fi Calling.

Using Wi-Fi calling can dramatically improve call clarity, especially in homes with limited cellular coverage but strong broadband connections. Learn more about Wi-Fi calling through this helpful guide from Verizon.

Minimize Interference

Household electronics can interfere with your signal. Devices like microwaves, cordless phones, and baby monitors can disrupt wireless signals, especially if they operate in the same frequency range as your mobile network. Keep your phone away from these appliances during calls, and position your Wi-Fi router away from other electronics for better overall performance.

Try Airplane Mode Resets

If your phone is struggling to maintain a connection, toggling airplane mode on and off can force it to reconnect to the nearest, strongest tower. Simply enable airplane mode for about 10 seconds, then disable it. This quick refresh often helps your device latch onto a better signal source.

Invest in a Signal Booster (If Needed)

While DIY fixes can go a long way, in some cases, investing in a signal booster is worthwhile. Signal boosters, also known as repeaters, amplify the existing signal in your home. They’re especially useful in areas with weak outdoor signals.

Look for certified boosters that are compatible with your carrier. Brands like weBoost and SureCall are popular choices for residential setups.

Keep Software Updated

Keeping your phone’s operating system updated can also play a role in signal strength. Updates often include performance improvements and bug fixes that optimize how your phone connects to mobile networks. Regularly check for updates in your phone’s settings menu to stay current.

Lastly, if poor signal persists despite your efforts, contact your carrier. They might offer solutions such as femtocells (mini cell towers for your home) or suggest plan adjustments based on your location. Coverage gaps happen, but with these simple fixes, you can improve your mobile experience and enjoy stronger, clearer connections from the comfort of home.