TV shows a double image or ghosting

Look at whether the duplicate has a fixed offset, appears only around moving objects, or creates a faint afterimage after a static scene. Also note whether it appears on one channel, one HDMI device, every source, or the TV menu. These descriptions are clues, not a reliable diagnosis of a panel or video board.

1. Open the TV menu over the affected picture and inspect its text and icons.

   If the menu is clean but the program is doubled, the source, broadcast, connection, or content mode is a stronger branch.

   If that does not help: If the menu is doubled too, compare the TV’s self-diagnostic/picture test and consult the model’s support page.

2. Switch to a different channel, built-in app, or HDMI input, changing only the source.

   If the double image follows one source, investigate that source and its cable or signal before changing global TV settings.

   If that does not help: If every source and TV-generated screens show the duplicate, stop broad setting changes and contact the TV maker with the pattern.

Sony documents that reflected broadcast signals can cause ghosting with an antenna, particularly where nearby terrain or tall buildings reflect the signal. That is distinct from a double image across the TV’s menus and HDMI inputs. If the issue appears only on over-the-air channels, check whether it affects every channel or only a station, and inspect the antenna connection and placement according to the antenna maker’s guidance.

1. Compare another broadcast channel and a built-in app or HDMI source.

   A clean app/HDMI image with ghosting on antenna channels points toward reception or broadcast conditions rather than a TV-wide display problem.

   If that does not help: If other sources are also affected, do not keep repositioning the antenna; use the TV’s picture test and manufacturer support.

2. Check that the antenna cable is seated and undamaged; if practical, compare reception after a modest antenna position change.

   A change limited to antenna reception supports a signal-path explanation, though it does not identify the exact interference source.

   If that does not help: If the symptom does not change, restore the antenna position and contact the broadcaster, antenna installer, or TV support as appropriate.

On a TV that supports 3D, Sony notes that watching non-3D material while 3D is enabled can produce a double image. If the model has no 3D feature, this branch does not apply. Use the exact manual to confirm whether a 3D viewing mode exists and turn it off only if it is currently enabled.

A faint residual image after a static picture is a different pattern from two continuously separated copies of moving objects. Sony notes that residual images can become less noticeable after a few minutes. Stop displaying a static test image and let the screen return to ordinary varied content. Do not repeatedly run high-contrast videos or “burn-in repair” loops; they can obscure diagnosis and may not help.

1. Reseat the source device’s video cable at both ends and inspect the connectors for visible damage.

   If the symptom changes immediately, the connection path deserves further checking.

   If that does not help: If nothing changes, compare another input or cable one at a time if you have a suitable known-good option.

2. Restart the connected source using its maker’s normal procedure and check its output mode in the device manual.

   A clean image on another source indicates that TV-wide picture settings may not be the right place to troubleshoot.

   If that does not help: If the duplicate follows the device to another display, contact that device’s manufacturer; if it stays on one TV input, report that pattern to TV support.

Some TVs offer Picture Test or Self Diagnosis. The exact path and meaning vary by model. LG explains that its self-diagnosis tests the TV’s ability to display picture and sound but does not test the broadcast signal; Sony recommends self-diagnostics where available for screen issues. A normal test is useful evidence when a particular channel or HDMI source is affected, but it cannot certify every input or format.

1. Run the manufacturer’s picture/self-diagnostic test and note whether the duplicate is visible in the TV-generated image.

   If the test is clear but one source remains doubled, take the source-specific evidence to the broadcaster or device maker.

   If that does not help: If the test is also doubled or no built-in test exists, contact the TV maker with the model and source comparison results.

2. Stop using the TV if the screen is cracked, the image rapidly worsens, or you notice heat, odor, or electrical symptoms.

   Those conditions need service advice rather than picture-menu experimentation.

   If that does not help: Do not remove the rear cover or replace internal parts; refer the TV to qualified service.

• The TV displays ghosting or double images — checked 2026-10-24
• How to troubleshoot TV picture and screen issues — checked 2026-10-24
• LG webOS TV picture and sound self diagnosis — checked 2026-10-24

Can an antenna cause a TV double image?

Reflected broadcast signals can produce ghosting on antenna reception. Compare other channels and a built-in app or HDMI source to see whether the symptom is confined to broadcast reception.

Does a double image mean the screen is broken?

Not necessarily. The source, signal, cable, an applicable 3D mode, temporary residual image, or TV itself may be involved. Check the TV menu and built-in picture test before drawing a conclusion.

What is the difference between ghosting and image retention?

Ghosting often describes a duplicate image or trail during viewing. Image retention describes a faint remnant of a previous static image. The terms are used inconsistently, so describe exactly what changes and where it appears.