Dish Network and the $5 no phone line fee?

Question

I've had Dish Network for a few years. Now I am considering a DVR, but we only use cell phones, so I have no phone line. It pisses me off that they charge this $5 fee for not having a phone line attached. I asked them why is it needed? Does it affect functionality? They say no, the DVR will work fine without a phone line attached, except for PPV orders.

As far as I am concerned I take it up the rear twice. I pay because I do not have a phone line, then I pay AGAIN on every PPV order.

So I asked, if the phone line is not needed for functionality, then what is it used for? No intellegent response from any of the 5 or so reps I asked. I can only assume that since it does not affect function, the phone line must be used for another purpose. It seems logical that they must collect info about how many people are watching certain programs, and then they sell that info. Sort of like a nielsons ratings box. Why else would they want a phone line connected? What do you think?

Don't tell me to go to cable please. I live out in the sticks.... no cable available.

Answer 1

the receivers you are referring to are models 625 or 522 receivers. they have two tuners and are designed to run 1 ot 2 tvs depending on whether you want to run it in single mode to record one show or if you want it in dual mode so 2 tvs can operate independently. As far as the phone line it is for ppv but also for fraud. the receiver dials out and lets them know you arent sharing the account with a friend or neighbor. As far as getting around the fee there is a model called a 510 which is a single tuner and does not charge a $5 fee if no phone line is plugged in. Just ask them for this model on an upgrade

Answer 2

I used to work in their technical service call center. The reason for the phone line fee is for dual tuners (operating 2 tvs with 1 rcvr). The older model receivers only operate 1 tv so any additional ones on your account cost $5 fee. They give you the benefit to save 5 bucks by hooking up the phone line to avoid additional receiver fees. Also because its an expensive piece of equipment and they like to know where it is. The phone line is how they keep track of where the box is at, also it is helpful to dispute ppv's. The phone line is for the Dish Home channel that is on channel 100 lets you get billing info etc.

If you order your ppv's online you are not charged a fee. Through the 1-800 number it is a buck and a live agent is 5 bucks.

Answer 3

Hi Lazirell,

I think you have run into a typical case of "we have always done it that way". It is very frustrating.

A TiVo depends on a phone or network connection for programming information but there is no charge if you don't use it.

If I were you I would seek information from Dish at a higher level.

Norm

Answer 4

Buy a cheap wireless phone jack and you get phone-line access even though you don't have a hard line.
The Phonex EasyJack 2 works great.

The cost of wireless jack will pay off that $5 DVR fee in no time