EPG Not Loading? Fix Empty IPTV Guide Grids
Fix EPGs that show a blank grid or never load. Verify XMLTV URLs, match tvg-id values, and refresh guide data the right way.
Why is my IPTV EPG empty?
Quick Answer: Most empty EPGs are caused by a bad XMLTV URL or missing tvg-id matches. Confirm the XMLTV file loads, then map channels and force a refresh in your player.
EPG URLs must return XMLTV data and match channel tvg-id values.
An empty EPG usually means the guide data did not load or the channel IDs do not match your playlist. The fixes below help you validate the XMLTV source, align tvg-id values, and rebuild the guide cache in your player.
Confirm the XMLTV URL loads
Open the EPG URL in a browser. It should download an XMLTV file or display XML. If it redirects, requires login, or returns an error, your player will show an empty grid. Replace the URL with a working XMLTV source from your provider.
Match tvg-id values in the playlist
EPG data is matched by tvg-id (or sometimes tvg-name). If your M3U has missing or mismatched tvg-id values, the guide will not map. Use a playlist editor to confirm tvg-id values align with your XMLTV file.
Clear cache and force a guide refresh
Most players cache EPG data. Clear the EPG cache, re-add the XMLTV URL, and trigger a full refresh. Use a 12 to 24 hour refresh interval so the guide stays current without overloading the app.
Fix timezone and format pitfalls
If the guide loads but appears blank for current time, check timezone settings. Some providers require a manual offset in the player. Also verify the XMLTV file uses proper encoding (UTF-8) and valid date formats.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I test an EPG URL?
Paste the XMLTV URL into a browser. If it downloads XML or shows XML content, it is working. If it errors or redirects, the URL is not usable in most IPTV apps.
What does tvg-id do?
tvg-id links a channel in your M3U playlist to the matching program listings in the XMLTV file. Without matching tvg-id values, EPG data will not appear.
Should I use multiple EPG sources?
Only if your player supports merging or priority. Too many sources can slow loading. Start with one reliable XMLTV source from your provider.
Related Guides
How to Setup EPG (TV Guide) for IPTV - Complete Tutorial
Learn how to setup and configure EPG (Electronic Program Guide) for your IPTV player. Step-by-step instructions for TiviMate, IPTV Smarters, Kodi, and more.
EPG Time Offset Fix - Correct IPTV Guide Times
Fix IPTV EPG schedules that appear hours ahead or behind. Adjust timezone offsets, device clock settings, and provider XMLTV time shifts.
How to Add XMLTV EPG to IPTV
Step-by-step XMLTV setup for IPTV players. Add the EPG URL, map channels, and verify the guide loads correctly.
Works with these apps
TiviMate
Premium IPTV player with EPG and recording
IPTV Smarters Pro
Cross-platform IPTV player with Xtream support
Perfect Player
Set-top box style IPTV player for Android
OTT Navigator
Powerful IPTV player with Stalker and Xtream support
Compatible devices
Firestick
Affordable streaming stick with Alexa
Android TV
Versatile streaming boxes running Android TV
Samsung TV
Samsung Smart TVs with Tizen OS
Written by
IPTV Guide Team
IPTV & Streaming Specialists