Pub Menu

How to Keep Your Roku App Running

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When using a Roku for digital signage or long-term display, the default settings are designed to save power by turning off the screen or returning to the home menu after a period of inactivity. To ensure your content stays on the screen 24/7, follow these steps to disable those features.

The Standard Fix: Roku Power Settings

Most Roku devices have "Auto Power Savings" enabled by default. This will close your app and put the device to sleep after a period of no interaction.

  1. Press the Home button on your Roku remote.
  2. Scroll to Settings.
  3. Select System.
  4. Select Power.
  5. Select Auto power savings.
  6. Uncheck the box next to "Turn off after 4 hours"

The "Bandwidth Saver" Fix

Even if you disable the power savings, Roku has a secondary "Bandwidth Saver" feature. This is designed to stop streaming if you haven't pressed a button on the remote for four hours. If this is left on, your app will be closed and you will be kicked back to the home screen.

  1. Go to Settings.
  2. Select Network.
  3. Select Bandwidth saver.
  4. Select Off.

Disabling the Screensaver

Even with power and bandwidth settings optimized, the Roku screensaver can still trigger and cover your content. To prevent this, disable the timer entirely.

  1. Navigate to Settings.
  2. Select Theme (or Screensaver on some models).
  3. Select Screensaver start time.
  4. Select Disable screensaver.

Hardware Limitations

Physical factors can still cause your display to go dark regardless of your Roku settings:

TV Sleep Timers: Most TVs have an internal "Eco Mode" or "Sleep Timer." Use your original TV remote to find these settings and turn them off.

System Updates: Roku occasionally forces software updates. After an update, the device usually reboots to the main Home Screen, requiring you to manually restart your app.

Consistent Display with PubMenu

Getting these settings right ensures that your hardware doesn't get in the way of your business. This is why we built PubMenu to be a "set it and forget it" solution. Once you’ve configured your Roku using the steps above, the PubMenu app is designed to hold the screen and keep your digital signage running smoothly. Whether you are displaying a beer list, a food menu, or daily specials, the app handles the heavy lifting so your screens stay active and professional without constant troubleshooting.