I read these posts from work today and figured I was a part of the "small number of subscribers" not getting the new HD channels, being here in New England. Came home and confirmed that was the case (119/110/61.5), then decided to try Customer Chat on-line before getting tied-up on the phone with a CSR. It worked like a charm - Within 5 minutes I had a technician scheduled to come tomorrow between Noon & 5 PM (only a $15 Fee, since I have the Service Plan) and was done with the Chat. One of the most pleasant (and quick) experiences I've ever had with Dish or any other similar company - I'm happy....
For those interested, here's the clip of my short chat (FYI, my initial message was short & sweet: "My present Sats. are 119/110/61.5 & I need to add 72.7 or 129 to get the new HD channels added yesterday."):
Please wait while we find a representative to assist you...
Thank you for being a valued DISH Network customer, I will be happy to assist you today. Please give me a moment to access your account and review the information you have already provided.
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: I'd be happy to assist you with that.
Mike Gratis: Thanks....
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: In order for you to get the new HD channels we will need to set up an install to switch out your satellite dish with one that can get 72.7.
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: For account security purposes, can you please verify the full name and physical address including zip code on the account, and one of your receiver numbers? The receiver number I need begins with R00 or R01. You can find it on the back or bottom of your receiver, or in the System Info screen (Press menu twice on the remote to access System Info).
Mike Gratis: ##################################################
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: Thank you.
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: Would you like to add a 4-digit PIN on the account so you don't have to verify the address and receiver number in the future?
Mike Gratis: That would be good - Don't think I've done that before....
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: What would you like that to be?
Mike Gratis: ####
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: Since you have our Service Plan, the cost for this technician visit is a $15 co-pay. Would you like to pay for that now or have it added to your next bill?
Mike Gratis: Just put it on the bill - Easier that way. ;-)
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: Okay, no problem.
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: Friday afternoon from 12-5 is the soonest date and time frame we can have a technician out to resolve this for you. Is someone over the age of 18 going to be home during this time?
Mike Gratis: Yes, I'll make sure of it.
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: To ensure that our technician will arrive in a timely fashion, can you please provide me with your physical address?
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: I'm sorry, you did that already.
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: Can you identify two major cross streets near your home to help the installer in finding your house?
Mike Gratis: #### is right off of ####, 2nd house on the right.
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: Okay, great.
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: I have your home phone number listed as ##########. In order to ensure everything goes efficiently as possible, our technician may contact you to confirm your appointment prior to your scheduled date. Do you have a cellular or a work number where we can reach you in the event you are not home?
Mike Gratis: Cell - ###-###-####
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: Your technician visit is scheduled for tomorrow, Friday 2/12 between 12PM and 5PM. Please make sure that there is at least 3' clearance behind the TV prior to the technician arriving. The tech will arrive at your home during this time frame; however the completion of the work may go past 5 PM. Please plan accordingly so that the tech can complete the work as required. If you need to reschedule, please call 1-800-894-9131 or contact us through the Live Chat link online at least 24 hours in advance to notify us. Someone 18 years or older will need to be present in order for the work to be performed. Your technician visit includes a 60 day warranty.
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: You are all set. Have I handled everything to your satisfaction?
Mike Gratis: VERY well, thank you! Figured I'd give this chat a try before getting tied-up on the phone and VERY happy with the way it has worked out.
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: You're very welcome.
(04-03rf) James F. 88Y: Thank you for being a DISH Network customer, have a great day.
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