How to Fix Stereo Receivers

By Greyson Ferguson

Troubleshoot your stereo receiver problems.
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A stereo receiver controls the audio connection inputs and the speakers of a stereo system. Because the receiver is the brains of the system, if it has a problem or goes down, the entire stereo and all connected components are not going to work. These issues are typically minor, and it is possible for you to correct the problems through a series of troubleshooting steps.

Look over the cable connections running into the receiver. Make sure the cables are completely inserted into both the receiver and any connected hardware. When using wires running out of speakers, make sure the wires are plugged into the speaker connection ports of the receiver.

Look over the fuses on the back of the receiver. If you attempted to play the volume too high on your receiver, the fuses are going to short out. You know the fuses are damaged and no good if the metal filament in the middle is either black or broken. You must replace these fuses in order to fix the receiver. The fuses slide in and out of the stereo receiver (although you may need a Phillips screwdriver to unlock the protective case around the fuses). Replacement fuses are available at most electronic stores.

Open up the CD tray of the stereo receiver. Spray a few shots of compressed air into the tray towards the lens of the CD player. If the lens is dirty, the stereo receiver does not have the capabilities to read any inserted CD.

Wipe off the air intake vents on the side of the stereo receiver. If the vents are blocked with dust, heat becomes trapped inside the receiver, causing the stereo to overheat and possibly shut down while in use.

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