Dish Networks ratcheted up the HD wars with cable operators yesterday by announcing it would offer its HD customers discounts on Sharp’s Aquos LCD TVs.

The promotional offer runs through Jan. 31. Both current and new qualifying Dish HD customers can get up to $800 in savings on a variety of Sharp’s flat panel TVs. The screen sizes range from 26 inches up to 65 inches with full HD 1080p resolution. The promotion also includes free delivery within qualifying areas of the continental United States.

“Savvy consumers know Dish Network offers the best value in entertainment, and this exciting promotion complements the unparalleled viewing experience our customers already enjoy,” said Jessica Insalaco, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for Dish Network, in a prepared statement. “Combined with our industry-leading HD programming and DVRs, these attractive discounts provide our customers with the perfect opportunity to bring the HD viewing experience to every room in the home, just in time for football season and fall TV premieres.”

Cable operators and satellite providers have worked diligently this year to increase their HD offerings as customers buy more HDTV sets.

Dish offers 70 HD channels including 39 national HD channels as well as HD local channels available in more than 50 percent of U.S. households, 18 regional sports networks in HD and nine HD pay-per-view channels. DishHD is available free for six months to new customers, and new Dish subscribers may also receive a free upgrade to the company’s HD DVR receivers.