Alex Ruben
How To Increase Volume on an Insignia TV Without Using a Remote
So, you’re stuck without a remote for your Insignia TV and need to turn the volume up or down? Classic. It’s kind of weird how sometimes you lose the remote at the worst moment, but there are a few ways to fix this without needing tech magic. Some approaches work better depending on your setup, but here’s what’s helped in the past.
Step 1: Check for Physical Buttons on the TV (Pretty straightforward)
This is the simplest one — if your TV has buttons somewhere on the chassis, use ‘em. Usually on the bottom edge, side, or back panel. Find the ones labeled with + and – icons. Pressing the + should bump the volume up, and – will bring it down. Sometimes, holding the button does a quick scroll, others might need a tap each time.
Why it helps: Because your TV actually has built-in controls, no tech needed. Works on the rare occasion when the remote is nowhere in sight or batteries are dead.
When it applies: If your TV still has physical buttons, this is your easiest fallback. Usually, it’s a quick fix when the remote gets lost or stops working.
What to expect: The volume should respond directly. On some setups, it might be a little sluggish or only responsive when you press and hold, but it’s usually reliable enough.
Pro tip: Sometimes the buttons are tiny or hard to see, so double-check the edges carefully. It’s kinda weird, but some Insignia models hide the buttons on the back or behind a cover, so check around if you don’t spot anything immediately.
Step 2: Use the Insignia Mobile App (If your smart device still works)
If your TV is connected to Wi-Fi and you’ve got the Insignia Remote App installed, this can be a lifesaver. Download it from the Amazon Fire TV app or the app store (Apple or Google Play). Make sure your phone and TV are on the same Wi-Fi network, otherwise it won’t see the TV.
Open the app, wait for it to scan for your Insignia TV — it usually pops up pretty quick, but sometimes you gotta manually select it. Once connected, use the on-screen remote. It’s nice because you can also control power, inputs, and volume from there.
When this helps: Typically, if you can’t find the remote, but your TV is smart and on Wi-Fi, this is your best bet to get volume control back fast. This method often works after a quick restart or network refresh.
Expect: The volume icons will respond, and you can set it where you want. Sometimes, the app has glitches or delays, especially if the network connection is iffy. Also, if your phone disconnects or the app crashes, restart both the app and the TV. It’s a tiny hassle but worth trying.
Step 3: Use a Universal Remote (If you have one lying around)
Universal remotes are spoiler alerts — they’re kinda bulky and old school, but they work with a lot of models. If you’ve got one, follow the programming instructions from the remote’s manual to sync it with your Insignia TV. Usually, it involves entering a code (sometimes from a list on the manufacturer’s site or included in the manual).
Once it’s set up, just use the volume buttons on the universal remote. No fuss, just works. If it doesn’t respond immediately, double-check the code and try again. Also, sometimes you need to point it directly at the TV or remove obstacles.
When to try: If you don’t have the original remote, and really need a quick solution, this is often the fastest way to regain control, especially if you have a remotes with updated or pre-programmed codes.
Expect: Usually, volume will respond right away if the remote’s properly set up. Sometimes, if it’s an old remote, the codes might be a bit off, or it needs a reset. No worries — a quick reprogram usually fixes that.
Step 4: Check HDMI-CEC Settings (If you connect through devices)
Some folks forget that HDMI-CEC functionality (the fancy name for one device controlling another over HDMI) can let you control the volume with connected gear. If your TV supports it (most newer Insignia models do), and you have devices like a soundbar, game console, or Chromecast, you might be able to adjust the volume through those controls.
First, dig into the Settings menu — look for options labeled System, HDMI-CEC, or something similar. Enable it if it’s off. On some models, you’ll find it under System > CEC Settings. Then, try adjusting the volume via your connected device’s remote or app.
When it works: It’s a bit hit or miss sometimes, especially if device support is flaky, but on some setups, it’s a neat workaround.
Expect: The volume responds through your game console or streaming box remote controls, giving you a way to tweak sound without the TV remote.
Additional Tips & Common Issues
If the app seems unresponsive or the physical buttons don’t do anything, try turning the TV off and on again. Sometimes, a quick reset clears out weird glitches. Also, make sure your app is up-to-date, or you might experience bugs. When using a universal remote, double-check that the batteries aren’t dead because that can cause inconsistent responses.
Because of course, Windows, or in this case your smart TV, has to make things more complicated than they need to be, right? Just keep in mind, it might take a few tries, but these methods tend to work given a bit of persistence.
Summary
- Check for physical buttons on your TV — give ‘em a press.
- Use the Insignia Remote App or other smart device methods.
- Program a universal remote if available.
- Explore HDMI-CEC options for connected devices.
Hopefully this shaves off a few hours for someone. Sometimes, the simplest fix is hiding right on the TV itself or just a quick app download—fingers crossed this helps.