---
title: What to Check Before Calling Tech Support
description: Don't want to call tech support? You might not have to! Here are 5 simple things to check first that could solve your tech woes in minutes. Be your own hero!
---

[SimpleTech Time](https://htmsconnect.com/simpletech-time)

# [What to Check Before Calling Tech Support](https://htmsconnect.com/simpletech-time/what-to-check-before-calling-tech-support)

 Written by [Kevin Mewborn](https://htmsconnect.com/simpletech-time/author/kevin-mewborn) | Feb 25, 2025 2:30:00 PM

Before you spend an hour on hold or let someone remote into your computer, there are a few things you can check on your own—and maybe save yourself the hassle (and the bill).

Here’s a quick **HomeTech checklist** to try before picking up the phone:

### 🔌 1. **Did You Power Cycle It?**

It’s the oldest trick in the book because it works.

- **Unplug** the device for 60 seconds.
- Plug it back in and wait.
- This works for routers, modems, TVs, smart hubs—you name it.

### 📶 2. **Check the Cables & Connections**

- Loose Ethernet cable? HDMI halfway out?
- Power cords slightly unplugged behind the TV or desk?
- One small disconnection can cause big problems.

Take 30 seconds to trace the cables—seriously.

### 📱 3. **Restart the App or Device**

Whether it’s your smart TV, your phone, or your streaming stick:

- Force close the app
- Restart the device
- Reopen and try again

It clears up a lot of bugs, especially with smart tech.

### 🌐 4. **Check for Outages**

Before assuming it’s your setup:

- Look up your ISP (like Spectrum, AT&T) and see if there’s a known outage
- If your smart devices aren’t responding, check their status page (e.g., Ring, Blink, Alexa)

### ⚠️ 5. **Know When to Call**

If you’ve:

- Rebooted the system
- Checked the connections
- Tried it on another device
- Still can’t get a result…

**That’s when it’s time to reach out.** And if you’re in Irmo and want a real human who speaks your language—not a robot—I’ve got you.

[View full post](https://htmsconnect.com/simpletech-time/what-to-check-before-calling-tech-support)

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