Keep in mind free isn't always free as far as the install goes. D* will give you a free BASIC install... which includes...
- Walk through as to what is to take place in terms of installation
- Installation of the dish on the structure
- System bonded to the homes electrical ground
- Up to 100' of total cable (most techs/subs wont charge for more cable unless it has to be trenched or attached)
- Penetration of 1 wall or 1 floor (does not include fishing to attic or crawl space through the wall)
- Hooking the Rec's up to a Phone line up to 25' away (doesn't include running home runs anymore)
- Hooking up a VCR or Surround (ie running RG6 from Rec to VCR to TV or Running Audio Cables up to 4' from output from rec to input on surround, doesn't include actual installation of your Surround or a DVD (but most will "plug" your DVD in.)
- Customer Education on how it all works
Things that you may be charged by the tech for...
- Pole Mounts
- Non-Penetrating Mounts
- Specialty Mounts
- Cable runs over 100'
- Trenching by hand
- Wall Fishing (per line)
- Additions to a work order (adding receivers, changing dish types)
- Mirror Lines (1 TV shown on multiple TV's)
- Convenience outlets (outlets not to be used for initial install.. ie "can you put a line in the kitchen so we can move a rec in here for thanksgiving..")
- Replacing current cable that is within current spec (RG6/75ohm/2200mhtz)
Generally when you place your order they will give you a HDDVR and 3 Std, only the AAA will give you a HDDVR and a HD box guaranteed at no extra cost. At times you may be able to get a CSR to give you an addition HD box but seriously unlikely. So if you wanted a 4 ROOM 100% HD system installed be prepared to pay up to $320 for the other HD boxes. You may also ask the CSR if you can get your lines fished free or on a pole mount free and for some stupid reason they may say "sure" but it will not be the case.
People have said they have gotten this or that for free but as stated it really is few and far between. I know my Father and my Sister have both tried to get Free Upgrades when they already had the Adv Equipment to no avail and that's with me coaching them.
You mentioned you had a LOS issue... do you feel they were lying or did you take care of any issues that may prevent you from obtaining service?