Hulu App Not Working On Smart TV? (3-Second FIX)

Are you a Hulu subscriber facing frustration while using your Smart TV? It can be incredibly disappointing to settle in for your favorite shows, only to discover that the Hulu app isn’t functioning properly on your Smart TV.

From buffering problems to encountering error messages, a malfunctioning Hulu app can really put a damper on your experience. But fret not, there are various steps you can take to troubleshoot and get your Hulu app running smoothly again.

In this article, we’ll delve into common reasons behind the Hulu app not working on Smart TVs, and offer solutions to assist you in quickly resuming your streaming of beloved shows!

Recommended Steps for Troubleshooting Hulu Issues on Your Smart TV:

Confirm Smart TV Compatibility: Hulu is compatible with the following Smart TVs and devices for big-screen streaming:
- Samsung Smart TVs
- Vizio SmartCast TVs
- Apple TV
- Android TV (4th generation or newer)
- LG TVs
- Xfinity Flex Streaming TV Box
- PlayStation 4 and 5
- Nintendo Switch (4 & 5)
Restart or Reinstall Hulu App:
- Access your Smart TV and press the menu/home button on your remote.
- Navigate to the apps menu and select Hulu from the list.
- Uninstall the Hulu app, then visit the Smart TV’s app store.
- Search for Hulu and click ‘install’.
- After installation, input your Hulu credentials to activate.
Update to the Latest Hulu App:
- If your Smart TV doesn’t automatically update the Hulu app, it might be using an outdated version causing streaming issues.
- To resolve this, uninstall the app and then reinstall the most recent version from the app store.
Check Hulu Error Messages:
- Before attempting a solution, identify the issue’s cause.
- Hulu provides error codes that describe the problem. Some common Smart TV Hulu errors include…
Verify Your Internet Connection:
- Hulu’s on-demand content requires a minimum internet speed of 3 Mbps. For 4K streaming, at least 16 Mbps is needed.
- If your current speed is insufficient, contact your internet provider to inquire about faster plans or consider upgrading your connection.
Check for Hulu Service Outages:
- Periodically, Hulu access issues might stem from service disruptions.
- If other fixes fail and Hulu still isn’t working, it could be due to a Hulu outage.
- To confirm, reach out to Hulu’s customer support or refer to their social media for outage updates.

Table of Contents

Hulu Doesn’t Function on Smart TVs: Why?

There are multiple factors that can lead to the Hulu app not functioning properly on your Smart TV. Here are some of the most prevalent reasons:

Network Connection Problems: Weak or unstable internet connections on your Smart TV can lead to disruptions in the Hulu app’s performance. You might experience buffering problems or encounter error messages while trying to play content.
Outdated App Version: If your Hulu app is not updated to the latest version, it can lead to various issues. These could include the app freezing, crashing, or even the inability to access certain features within the app.
Device Compatibility: It’s important to note that not all Smart TVs are compatible with the Hulu app. If your TV is an older model, it might lack the necessary hardware or software to properly support the app’s functionality.
Corrupted App Data: If the data associated with the Hulu app on your Smart TV becomes corrupted, it can lead to malfunctions. These could manifest as the app freezing, crashing, or difficulties in playing content.
Server Problems: Occasionally, the Hulu app might encounter server-related issues that impact its performance on your Smart TV. This might result in buffering troubles, error messages, or an inability to access content seamlessly.

How Can I Fix Hulu’s Smart TV “Not Working” Issue?

Over time, the Hulu app installed on your Smart TV may accumulate temporary data and files that are unnecessary and can lead to performance issues or malfunctions. To address this, you can consider the following actions:

Clear App Cache: To eliminate temporary files causing potential problems, you can clear the cache of the Hulu app. Access the “Apps” section within your Smart TV’s settings, locate the Hulu app, and choose the option to “Clear Cache.”
Uninstall and Reinstall the App: If clearing the cache doesn’t resolve the issue, uninstalling and then reinstalling the Hulu app might help. This process can remove any corrupted files and restore the app to its default state. Head to the “Apps” section in your Smart TV settings, find Hulu, and select “Uninstall.” Afterward, proceed to reinstall the app from the app store.
Restart Your Smart TV: Sometimes, a straightforward solution is to reboot your Smart TV. This action can effectively eliminate transient data and files causing problems. Turn off your TV, disconnect it from the power source for about 30 seconds, then plug it back in and power it on.
Reach Out to Hulu Support: Should you have attempted the aforementioned steps and continue to experience difficulties with the Hulu app on your Smart TV, it’s advisable to contact Hulu’s support for further assistance. They might offer additional troubleshooting guidance or escalate the issue as needed.

Verify if Hulu is compatible with your smart TV?

If you’re unable to locate the Hulu app on your Smart TV or encounter difficulties with Chromecasting Hulu, it’s probable that your Smart TV is not compatible with Hulu. Hulu’s compatibility for large screens encompasses the following Smart TVs and devices:

Samsung Smart TVs
Vizio SmartCast TVs
Apple TV
Android TV (4th generation or newer)
LG TVs
Xfinity Flex Streaming TV Box
PlayStation 4 and 5
Nintendo Switch (4 & 5)

Restart/Reinstall Hulu App

To address problems with the Hulu app on your Smart TV, consider restarting or reinstalling the app as these steps often help resolve issues. Here’s how to go about it:

Restart the Hulu App: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix issues. Exit the Hulu app and relaunch it by following these steps:
- Press the home button on your Smart TV remote.
- Navigate to the Hulu app and press the “enter” button to open it.
Restart Your Smart TV: If restarting the app doesn’t work, try restarting your Smart TV:
- Turn off your TV and unplug it from the power source for about 30 seconds.
- Plug it back in and turn it on.
- After your TV restarts, launch the Hulu app to check if the problem is resolved.
Uninstall and Reinstall the Hulu App: If the previous steps don’t work, attempt uninstalling and then reinstalling the Hulu app:
- Access the “Apps” section within your Smart TV settings.
- Locate the Hulu app and choose the option to “Uninstall.”
- Once uninstalled, reinstall the app from the app store.
- Launch the app and observe if the issue is resolved.

By restarting or reinstalling the Hulu app on your Smart TV, you can often troubleshoot issues like freezing, buffering, or encountering error messages. If these steps fail, you can reach out to Hulu support for additional assistance.

Update Your Hulu App

On mobile devices, the Hulu app receives instant updates to ensure it always has the latest version. However, unlike some competing Smart TVs, most Samsung Smart TVs possess automatic update capabilities.

If your Smart TV doesn’t automatically update the Hulu app, it might persist with an outdated version. This can potentially result in issues when streaming Hulu on your Smart TV. To address this, you can follow these steps to obtain the most up-to-date Hulu app version for your Smart TV:

Uninstall and Reinstall: If your Smart TV isn’t updating the Hulu app automatically, consider the following:
- Uninstall the current Hulu app from your Smart TV.
- Proceed to the app store on your Smart TV.
- Find and select the Hulu app.
- Choose to install it.
- After installation, launch the updated Hulu app on your Smart TV.

By uninstalling and reinstalling the Hulu app, you can ensure that you have the latest version on your Smart TV, enabling optimal streaming experiences.

Check Common Hulu Error Codes

Here are some common Hulu error codes and their typical meanings. Understanding these codes can help users troubleshoot issues with the Hulu app on their Smart TVs and resume streaming their preferred content:

Hulu Error Code 3 and 5: These errors generally signal a problem with your internet connection. It could be too slow, or there might be interruptions in the signal.
Hulu Error Code 14: This error message usually arises when there’s an issue with your Hulu app or device. It might also indicate that the app is incompatible with your device.
Hulu Error Code 16: This error code often suggests a problem with the content you’re attempting to watch. It could be unavailable in your region, or there might be licensing issues hindering access.
Hulu Error Code 32: This error code typically points to an issue with the server hosting the content you’re trying to watch. It could also indicate problems with your internet connection.
Hulu Error Code 39: This error code commonly signifies a problem with the playback device. It might be too old or not compatible with the Hulu app.
Hulu Error Code 50: This error code often signifies an issue with the content you’re attempting to watch. It might be unavailable, or there could be licensing restrictions blocking access.

If you come across any of these error codes while using the Hulu app on your Smart TV, consider following the troubleshooting steps provided earlier. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to reach out to Hulu support for further assistance. They might offer additional troubleshooting or escalate the matter if required.

Check Your Internet Connection

If you’re encountering problems with the Hulu app on your smart TV, one of the initial steps to take is to confirm your internet connection. Here are several actions you can follow to validate your internet connection:

Check Your Wi-Fi Network: Ensure that your smart TV is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network. If you have multiple networks at home, it’s possible you’ve unintentionally connected to the wrong one.
Restart Your Router: Attempt to resolve connectivity issues by restarting your router. Unplug the router for about 30 seconds and then plug it back in. This simple action can often restore proper connectivity.
Adjust Router Placement: If your smart TV is situated far from the router, consider moving it closer. Relocating the TV can enhance signal strength and minimize connectivity problems.
Test Network Speed: Evaluate your internet speed by performing a speed test on another device, such as a computer or mobile device. If your speed appears slower than expected, get in touch with your internet service provider to address the issue.
Reset Network Settings: As a final measure, you can reset your network settings on your smart TV. While this will necessitate reconfiguring your Wi-Fi connection, it can frequently resolve stubborn connectivity problems.

By verifying your internet connection, you can ensure that your smart TV maintains proper internet access, permitting uninterrupted access to Hulu content.

Verify if Hulu is Experiencing Downtime

If you’re encountering problems with the Hulu app on your smart TV, another potential factor could be a service disruption on Hulu’s end.

Hulu frequently communicates updates regarding service outages or maintenance on their social media platforms, such as Twitter and Facebook. Browse through their accounts to access any notifications about the current status of their service.

Additionally, you can navigate to Hulu’s official website and search for any service alerts or updates featured on the homepage. They might also provide a “Help” section containing details about any known issues or ongoing outages.

By checking for service status updates, you can determine whether the problems you’re facing with the Hulu app on your smart TV are due to a broader service interruption.

Wrapping it up

If Hulu is not functioning properly on your Smart TV, there are steps you can take to resolve the issue.

Clear Cache Data: As a first step, consider clearing the cache data from the Hulu app before attempting to use it on your Smart TV.
Reinstall Hulu App: If your Smart TV is unable to access Hulu, reinstalling the Hulu application might be necessary. You can locate Hulu by searching for it and then selecting the ‘install’ option.
Internet Speed: Ensure your internet connection meets Hulu’s requirements. Hulu’s on-demand content needs a minimum of 3 Mbps, while 4K streaming demands at least 16 Mbps. If your current internet speed falls short, consider increasing it to enable smooth Hulu streaming.
Update Hulu App: Download the latest version of the Hulu app and install it on your Smart TV. If you’re experiencing problems, uninstall the existing app and then reinstall the updated version.

By following these steps, you can potentially resolve issues and enjoy uninterrupted Hulu streaming on your Smart TV.

You May Also Enjoy Reading: Can a Smart TV work without Internet Connection?

FAQs

How many people can simultaneously watch Hulu?

By default, two users using the same account on two separate devices can stream Hulu concurrently. For an unlimited number of viewers at once, you can opt for Hulu Plus Live TV by paying an additional fee.

Can I watch my Hulu subscription at someone else’s house?

You can access Hulu on a mobile device outside of your home network. However, certain local channels might not be available without changing your location, and Hulu Live TV could require you to check in from your mobile device at home at least once a month.

What’s included in a Hulu subscription? For $6.99/month*, you gain full access to the Hulu streaming library. Enjoy complete seasons of premium shows, timeless classics, original Hulu series, blockbuster movies, current episodes, kids’ content, and much more. Starting from 10/10/2022, the cost of Hulu’s ad-supported plan will increase to $7.99/month.

How can I reset Hulu on my smart TV?

To reset the Hulu app on your smart TV, follow these steps:

Deactivate your device.
Remove the device from your account page.
Wait for a while and then relaunch the Hulu app.
Install or reinstall the devices that appear on your screen. This should help resolve your issue.
Access your Smart TV’s app store for this process.

Why has Hulu stopped working on my Samsung Smart TV?

If Hulu isn’t working on your Samsung TV, try these steps:

Power cycle your TV by turning it on and off at intervals.
Repeat this process for 30-60 seconds.
Access your Smart TV’s settings menu.
Locate Hulu from the list of apps.
Within the Hulu app, go to storage and select the ‘clear cache’ option.
Return to the Home screen, choose the Hulu app, and ensure it’s active.

Hulu App Not Working on Smart TV? (3-Second FIX)