How do I find a provider with more signal

[Frankie]

I live near ClearLake, CA (specifically in the west side of the lake). Currently I use verizon but can get no signal from my home. My plan is over in about a month and want to find a new plan.
How do I go about this without signing up with each company, and trying the phone? I was assured by verizon that they had enough towers in the area and I would have signal! I then went with them since thay had a good price (we wanted a cell phone only for emergencies for my wife while on the road and for a couple of long distance calls a month) !
Thanks for any ideas,
Frank

[karmannghia]

You can try different phones with Verizon. Phones do make a difference.

Also you can try talking to other carriers and see if they have demo phones you could borrow with a credit card. I have tried this in San Diego with Sprint and Cingular. With AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon I had to sign up for service and cancel within their specified time period.

I would think Verizon would be your best bet, but for me, Verizon was the worst as for getting reception at my home. If you try Sprint, definetely try the Sanyo 4900. Out of all carriers and phones, this was my best choice. That phone pulls signal in like nothing else. Be forwarned, Sprint's Customer Service has been absolutely horrible for me.

[BillRadio]

Frankie,
Would you believe there are 6 "Clear Lake"s in CA? I'll assume you're northwest of Sacto. Verizon is slowly expanding in that area, but not fast enough for you. The only other choices in the area are US Cellular and possibly Edge Wireless, both of which will let you try a phone and return it paying only for minutes used.

I would try US Cellular first since they have the more established network. Edge has very good plans, it would be just like signing up with AT&T. You might call a neighbor and ask what they use. Neighboring businesses are usually the most helpful, like your local plumber or delivery contractors.

-Bill

[wickkedwun]

Frankie,

I know for a fact that at&t wireless works well up there... Try them out, They have a 30 return and cancel policy.. You need the "tri-mode" in clear lake.. Verizon seems weak up there but try at&t wireless.. Possibly the 6360 nokia its seems to work well..