All Scales
Can I move the scale and not worry about resetting it back to zero?
No. If the scale is moved, you must reset the scale back to zero in order to get an accurate reading.
Can I order the "Rubber Feet?"
Rubber feet are not available for the scales.
Can I use the scale on a carpeted surface?
A hard surface is best for maximum accuracy. Placing a scale on a soft, deep, pile rug may affect the reading.
Is it difficult to move the Color Markers?
The color markers might be hard to move on a brand new scale. To get the marker to move, wiggle it in both directions around the scale face until it is free.
Is it normal for weight to vary from one day to the next?
Yes. Slight changes in weight are generally normal.
What is "Auto-Off"?
This means the scale will turn off automatically when not in use.
What is "Auto-Zero"?
This means the scale will automatically set display to zero upon activation.
What is "Instant On"?
The scale will automatically turn on when you step on the platform.
What is "Tap-On"?
An internal mechanism that is triggered when you tap on the scale to start.
What is the best way to clean the scale?
Use a mild soap and damp soft cloth. Do not use abrasive or strong chemical cleaners or submerse the entire unit in water.
What steps should I take before using the scale for the first time?
Remove any plastic shipping pins. Allow the scale to reach room temperature.
When is the best time to weigh?
Weigh yourself at approximately the same time each day. For best results, weigh yourself without clothing.
When I step on the scale, the reading is not accurate. What's wrong?
Our scales could be off +/-1% or 1 pound of your total body weight. Make sure that the scale is on zero before taking a reading. A hard surface is best for maximum accuracy. Slightly leaning to the right, left, front, or back can cause the scale to provide a different reading for each direction that you lean. Make sure that your feet are not hanging off the scale; this will cause the scale to provide an inaccurate reading. If the scale has been dropped, it could be the cause of the problem.
Why does my unit not turn on and the display is not lit?
The unit may require a battery or replacement battery. Consult the user manual to ensure scale has a back lit display. Locate battery cover on bottom of scale, open it, and insert appropriate battery or batteries. If the scale has been dropped, it could be the cause of the problem.
Dial
Does Health o meter® produce a professional waist-high dial scale for home use?
Health o meter® no longer manufacturers professional waist-high dial scales for home use.
How do "Dial Scales" operate?
Dial scales are Mechanical Analog type scales. These scales use a traditional spring and lever mechanism. Weight is distributed through brackets and levers. Levers connect to a plate with a spring. The spring stretches in proportion to the weight imposed. A pivot translates the up-and-down motion to a side-to-side motion. A rack and pinion translates the side-to-side motion to a rotational motion. The dial or indicator will turn and correct weight will appear in the window.
Is it difficult to move the Color Markers?
The color markers might be hard to move on a brand new scale. To get the marker to move, wiggle it in both directions around the scale face until it is free.
The "Indicator" needle on my dial scale has fallen off. What should I do?
This is not something that normally happens. Contact Customer Service for further assistance.
The plastic lens on my dial scale is cracked; can you send me a new one?
This is not something that normally happens. Contact Customer Service for further assistance.
What is a "Rotating Indicator"?
A rotating indicator is when the dial is fixed and the indicator (needle) spins to the weight.
What is the best way to clean the scale?
Use a mild soap and damp soft cloth. DO NOT use abrasive or strong chemical cleaners or submerse the entire unit in water.
What are the capacities of Professional Dial scales?
The maximum capacity of the scale will vary, consult the user manual of your model.
What is the warranty on Professional Dial scales?
The Professional Dial Scales have a limited lifetime warranty dependent upon which model you have. Check your warranty and instruction manual for further information.
What are the REPEATABILITY and ACCURACY of a dial scale?
REPEATABILITY has to do with two successive readings and the weight results could be +/- 1 lb. ACCURACY is the degree of agreement between the result of a measurement and the true value. Dial scales will fall between +/-(1% + 1 lb).
What are the capacities of personal dial scales?
The maximum capacity of the scale will vary, consult the user manual of your model.
What is a "Rotating Dial"?
A rotating dial is when the indicator (needle) is fixed and the dial spins to the weight.
When I step on the scale, the reading is not accurate. What could be wrong?
Our scales could differ +/- 1% of your total body weight. Adjust the scale with the adjustment knob to ensure that the dial is on zero before weighing. A hard surface is best for maximum accuracy. Slightly leaning to the right, left, front, or back can cause the scale to provide a different reading for each direction that you lean. If the scale has been dropped, it could be the cause of the problem.
When is the best time to weigh?
Weigh yourself at approximately the same time each day. Also, for best results weigh without clothing. The average weight of clothing, including shoes, is about 2-5 lbs. for women and 5-8 lbs. for men.
Why doesn't the "Indicator" (needle) or "Dial" of the scale move?
Make sure that any plastic shipping pins have been removed. These are located on the bottom of the scale.
Why doesn't the needle go back to zero?
A standard dial scale uses a traditional spring and lever mechanism that may need adjustment over time. To adjust it, locate the knob on the scale and change the dial so it is on zero.
Digital
Can the scale be used on a carpeted surface?
A hard surface is best for maximum accuracy. Placing the scale on a soft, deep pile rug may affect the reading.
My scale does not turn on and no display is showing. What's wrong?
The unit may require a fresh battery. Locate the battery cover on bottom of scale, open it, and insert appropriate battery or batteries. If the scale has been dropped, it could be the cause of the problem.
What is the proper way to use a digital battery scale?
Gently tap lower right corner or middle of scale platform with a foot. The display will show "000". Scale is now ready for use. Step on scale. 3 to 4 zeros will appear while computing weight. When correct weight is locked in, the numbers will appear on the display.
What does "Lo" message mean?
When "Lo" message appears on the digital display, the 9-volt battery needs to be replaced.
What is "AUTO-OFF"?
This means the scale will turn off automatically when not in use.
What is "AUTO-ZERO"?
This means the scale will automatically set display to zero upon activation.
What is "INSTANT-ON"?
This means the scale will turn on when you step on the platform.
What is "LED" display?
LED display is a light-emitting dial usually RED in color. It will usually display black background with RED numbers.
What is "TAP-ON"?
This is an internal mechanism that will be triggered with a tap on the scale to start.
What is meant by the message "C" on the scale display?
A "C" will appear during the first weighing, this is a self-calibrating feature on some scales. It means the scale is re-calibrating to zero. Please re-weigh for accurate reading. Scale will also re-calibrate after every battery replacement.
Where does the battery install?
Turn scale over and remove battery holder by pulling back and lifting the tab. Make sure that + and - terminals are positioned properly.
Will stepping on the scale before "0" appears affect a weight reading?
Yes. For accurate weight reading, zeros MUST appear first.
Electro-Mechanical (Dual or Duet Scales)
Can you still use the scale if the LCD display isn't working?
No. If the LCD is not working, check the battery. Replace with a new battery if necessary. If this does not work, check warranty information.
How do you obtain a "Dial" reading only?
On Electro-Mechanical scales, you cannot obtain a reading on the dial only.
How is the scale activated?
Do the following: Step on the scale. LCD will flash "000" for three seconds before displaying weight. Weight will flash on both dial and LCD displays, and will remain on screen for five seconds before turning off.
What is meant by the error message "Err"?
If error message "Err" appears, the maximum weight load for the scale has been exceeded.
What does "L" message mean?
If "L" message appears on the digital display, the 9-volt battery needs to be replaced.
What is "Auto-Off"?
This means the scale will turn off automatically when not in use.
What is "Instant On"?
The scale will automatically turn on when you step on the platform.
What type of battery should I use for this scale?
You should use a 9-volt alkaline battery.
Will moving the scale affect scale accuracy?
Yes. However, the scale is self-calibrating and will return to an accurate reading after three consecutive readings.
Load Cell
Are these load cells tested for accuracy and dependability?
Yes, each load cell is individually tested and calibrated. Each cell is proof tested to its full rated capacity, and in most instances, to more than its rated capacity.
What are load cells?
They are electro-mechanical transducers that translate force or weight into voltage. This change produces a read-out on the display.
Scale Batteries
Can I order a new battery cover?
The battery cover is not an orderable part for any scales.
Does Health o meter® have models with replaceable Lithium batteries?
Yes, some newer models allow you to replace the battery.
How long should the Lithium battery last?
The Lithium battery should last for approximately 10 years with an average family of 4 weighing once per day.
The battery gets hot. What's wrong?
Make sure the battery is installed correctly. If the problem continues, check and follow the warranty information.
What are the advantages of having a Lithium battery scale versus a scale that uses regular alkaline batteries?
Lithium batteries have extremely small self-discharge, which prolongs the life of a scale. Also, these scales may be operated in a wide temperature range, from -40°C to 85°C.
What type of battery is used as a Lithium Battery?
Widely-available, coin-type CR2032, 2-Volt Lithium batteries are used in our Lithium bath scales.
Where can I buy a replacement Lithium battery?
This battery is available at any store that sells watch batteries. Look for type CR2032 for a replacement.
Why don't the batteries last long?
Make sure that the batteries being used are fresh, and are placed properly into the battery compartment. If the problem continues, check and follow the warranty information.
Weight Tracking and Body Fat Scales
Can I use the "BODY FAT" scale if I have pacemakers or other medical devices?
If you use a pacemaker or other medical devices, you should NOT operate the "BODY FAT" scale due to electrical impulses sent out by the scale. Always check with your doctor to be certain.
Can I use the "BODY FAT" scale on carpeted surfaces?
A flat hard surface is best for maximum accuracy. Placing scale on a very soft, deep pile rug may affect the reading.
Does it matter whether a consumer wears socks or shoes while using the "BODY FAT" scale?
For accurate body fat calculation, always measure in BARE FEET. Do NOT bend knees; keep your legs straight and slightly apart.
Does the "BODY FAT" scale weigh in kilograms as well as pounds?
The "BODY FAT" scale is set to weigh in pounds. To display kilograms, turn the scale over to make selection.
How can I monitor my body fat?
Determine your body fat baseline. Record the weight readings & body fat readings for 7 to 10 days. Total your weight & body fat percentage (one total for each category). Divide each total by the number of days you had monitored your readings for. For example: Baseline weight: 135 + 136 + 138 = 409: 409/3 = 136.3 AND Body Fat %: 23% + 24% + 23% = 70: 70/3 = 23.3%
How does the "BODY FAT" scale work?
The Body Fat scale uses a method called "BIA" or bioelectrical impedance analysis. This is a low-level current that travels through the lower half of your body, through your lean muscle and body fat, and calculates an "impedance" value. Impedance is a calculation of the total opposition to the flow of a current. This number is factored in with your sex, age, height, and weight. The end result is your body fat percentage.
How fast must I enter my information into the "BODY FAT" scale, such as User, Height, Age and Gender?
The information must be entered within 10 seconds, while the choice is FLASHING. If you do not enter information while the choice is flashing (approx. 10 seconds), then you will have to start from the beginning.
I am having trouble setting the User, Height, Age, and Gender information. What should I do?
Follow the steps below or consult the user manual of your model: Lift display cover. Push "SET" button at bottom of pad. User "1" and "2" will appear. User "1" will start blinking. Press the "USER" button to choose user "1" or "2". Once selected, press "SET" button to lock in information. Both "HEIGHT" and "AGE" will appear on the screen. The "HEIGHT" will start blinking. Press the "UP" or "DOWN" arrows to find your correct height. After entering height, press the "AGE" button. Use the "UP" and "DOWN" arrows to enter correct age and press "SET". Both "MALE" and "FEMALE" images will be displayed. Press the "GENDER" button until the correct MALE/FEMALE image blinks and then press "SET". This will lock in the information. Your correct information including User, Height, Age, and Gender will be displayed. Now you are ready to calculate weight.
My scale does not "TURN-ON" and no display is showing. What's wrong?
Be sure you have installed a 9-volt battery correctly. Activate scale by tapping the scale in the lower left-hand corner of platform. If the scale has been dropped, it could be the cause of the problem.
What can I do if the buttons underneath the display cover stick?
Try using a damp Q-tip or toothpick to remove dust or other particles from around the base of the buttons. If that doesn't work, follow the warranty procedures.
What do I do after user information has been entered?
Models will vary. Consult the user manual of your model.
What does "6F" stand for on the "BODY FAT" scale?
Many people mistake the "B" in the "BF" for a 6. The "6F" actually is "BF," which stands for body fat percentage.
What does "8888" and "0000" mean?
8888 will appear until "0000" is displayed. When you see "0000," step on scale and stand still. Position your feet so your weight is evenly distributed over the scale platform and make sure your legs are slightly apart. "0000" will blink while your weight and information is being measured. When blinking stops, the weight will appear followed by the body fat percentage.
What is considered healthy body fat percentage for women? Men?
Health professionals outline healthy body fat levels as follows: Women Fit - No more than 27% Exceeds Ideal Range - 28%-30% Obese - Over 30% Men Fit - No more than 23% Exceeds Ideal Range - 24%-30% Obese - Over 30% For further information, consult your physician.