9 Messages
HR54-500 makes loud hard drive noises?
So, my friend who is older and doesn't like modern tech (except for watching TV) just transitioned from a D12-700 to a HR54-500 because he was told he would lose local channels otherwise. He told the tech who did the install that he didn't want a DVR but was told that 'all of the boxes have a DVR."
So, now the HR54-500 is making frequent hard drive type clicking and thumping noises which bothers him.
I am assuming that the noise is related to the DVR, despite it not being used. Or perhaps the box receives data through the satellite for things like the guide? The box is not connected to the internet - he doesn't even have home internet service.
Is there a setting that can disable the hard drive?
I perused the menus but didn't see any relevant settings...
goldw1800
ACE - Professor
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2K Messages
11 months ago
He could have gotten a Regular H24 or (Doesn't have) an Internal Hard Drive. -The "TECH" most likely did not have HD receiver and installed the HR54 -Causing Him to be Charged for DVR service as well as whole home service -- I suggest You or Him Call 1-800-531-5000 and explain what happened and get a service visit to get him a Regular HD Receiver.
You cannot disable the Hard Drive-on any DVR --when the Receiver it is still ON (working) even when the unit is turned off. Because it will record Scheduled Shows all the time.
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detuch254
ACE - New Member
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5.2K Messages
11 months ago
The only sounds made from a DVR are the hard drive along with the system fan. If the hard drive is making loud noises, this is definitely abnormal and could mean a failing hard drive. Your friend could replace the HR54 with an H25 receiver to not pay for DVR service or Whole-Home DVR. These two fees amount to $13/month.
Although, as the tech told your friend, DIRECTV rarely does give out HD only boxes these days like the H25. So, your friend may resort to purchasing one from Solid Signal for the retail price.
Otherwise, if he is fine with another Genie receiver, he can ask for a replacement receiver. This costs $19.95 for delivery, or if he has the Protection Plan with DIRECTV then it is FREE of charge.
As far as turning off the hard drive in the current HR54, this would require opening up the receiver which is against the Terms of Conditions since all Receivers are leased to customers by DIRECTV.
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GrumpyOldMen
9 Messages
11 months ago
Thanks for this info!
So I'll tell him to call and ask for an H24 or H25.
I'm pretty sure when he called to schedule the SD -> HD stb replacement he told them he didn't want/need a DVR and he still ended-up with the HR54-500.
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GrumpyOldMen
9 Messages
11 months ago
Apparently, the box makes noise even when it is turned off.
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shannon02
ACE - Expert
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20.6K Messages
11 months ago
DVRs are never off only in standby mode as the hard drive runs 24/7 to buffer the channels, record programs, receive guide data and updates.
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yarditime
16 Messages
9 months ago
Mine does that also and it’s fairly new. For months I thought I was hearing my neighbors TV or stereo. It wasn’t until I unplugged everything in my HEC and started plugging each device in one at a time until I identified the DVR box was the culprit. I repositioned it and it’s much better now.
It’s definitely the hard drive.
Try repositioning his and see if it helps.
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