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Health o meter® FAQ's

Your Health o meter® Product is designed to be very easy to use.

Whether this is your first purchase, or you are familiar with the benefits from many successful years or use, you may have interest in knowing more about how Health o meter® products work and the advantages they provide. We've put together a list of some of the most common questions to help you.

What is your interest area?

  • All Scales
    QuestionsAnswers
    Why does my unit not turn on and the display is not lit? The unit may require a battery. Locate battery cover on bottom of scale, open it, and insert appropriate battery or batteries.
    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 of 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.

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    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.
    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.
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    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.
    Can I order the "Rubber Feet?" The only "Rubber Feet" we have available through Consumer Service are those for the BIG FOOT model scales.
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    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.
    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.
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    Is it normal for weight to vary from one day to the next? Yes. Slight changes in weight are generally normal.
    When is the best time to weigh? Weigh yourself at approximately the same time each day. For best results, weigh yourself without clothing.
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    What is "Instant On"? The scale will automatically turn on when you step on the platform.
    What is "Auto-Zero"? This means the scale will automatically set display to zero upon activation.
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    What is "Auto-Off"? This means the scale will turn off automatically when not in use.
    What is "Tap-On"? An internal mechanism that is triggered when you tap on the scale to start.
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  • Dial
    QuestionsAnswers
    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 tradiational 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.
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    The "Indicator" needle on my dial scale has fallen off. What should I do? This is not something that normally happens. The scale will need to be sent in for service. Click here for instructions. If your scale is out of warranty, there will be a slight fee.
    The plastic lens on my dial scale is cracked; can you send me a new one? The lens is not a replaceable part. Please contact the nearest service center for replacement instructions. If your scale is out of warranty, there will be a slight fee.
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    What are the REPEATABILITY and ACCURACY of a dial scale? REPEATABLITY 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 is the best way to clean the scale? Use a mild soap and damp soft cloth. DO NOT use abrasive or strong chemical cleaners.
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    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.
    What is a "Rotating Dial"? A rotating dial is when the indicator (needle) is fixed and the dial spins to the weight.
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    What is a "Rotating Indicator"? A rotating indicator is when the dial is fixed and the indicator (needle) spins to the weight.
    How do "Dial Scales" operate? Dial scales are Mechanical Analog type scales. These scales use a traditional spring and lever mechanism. Weight is distributed thorugh 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.
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    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.
    What are the capacities of dial scales? 300 LBS is the highest number a dial scale will display.
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    What are the capacities of Professional Dial scales? 330-350 LBS is the highest number a Professional Dial Scale will display.
    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.
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    Does Health o meter® produce a professional waist-high dial scale for home use? Yes. Models 130, 130HT, 134, and 134HT are professional waist high dial scales for home use.
    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.

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  • Digital Replaceable Battery Scales
    QuestionsAnswers
    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.
    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.
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    What does "Lo" message mean? When "Lo" message appears on the digitial display, the 9-volt battery needs to be replaced.
    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.
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    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.
    Will stepping on the scale before "0" appears affect a weight reading? Yes. For accurate weight reading, zeros MUST appear first.
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    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 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.
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    What is "TAP-ON"? This is an internal mechanism that will be triggered with a tap on the scale to start.
    What is "AUTO-ZERO"? This means the scale will automatically set display to zero upon activation.
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    What is "INSTANT-ON"? This means the scale will turn on when you step on the platform.
    What is "AUTO-OFF"? This means the scale will turn off automatically when not in use.
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  • Digital Replaceable Lithium Battery Scales
    QuestionsAnswers
    My scale does not turn on and display is not showing. What's wrong? Digital Lithium Battery scales come with either a NON-REPLACEABLE or REPLACEABLE battery. If your scale uses a replaceable battery, make sure you have a lithium battery installed properly. If your scale uses a non-replaceable battery, check the warranty information and then locate the nearest service location.
    What is the proper way to use a Digital Lithium Battery scale? Gently tap center of scale platform with foot using at least 5 Lbs. of force. "888.8" will appear. Do not hold foot on scale for too long. Wait for "000.0" to appear before stepping on scale for weighing.
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    Does a Digital Lithium Battery scale weigh in kilograms as well as pounds? Yes. Choose the setting with the selector switch located under the edge of the scale.
    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.
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    What is meant by the error message "E"? Stepping on the scale before the "000.0" causes this error message to appear. If "E" appears, step off the scale and repeat initial RESTART by tapping on the center of the scale.
    What is meant by the error message "Err"? If error message "Err" appears, the maximum weight load for the scale has been exceeded.
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    Will moving the scale affect weighing accuracy? Yes. If the scale has been moved, tap the lower corner of the scale. This will calibrate the scale and disply zero.
    What is "INSTANT-ON"? The scale will automatically turn on when you step on the platform.
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    What is "TAP-ON"? This is an internal mechanism that will be triggered when you tap on the scale to start.
    What is "REVERSE LCD"? It is the reverse in color of a LCD display. Normally, LCD is dark numbers against a light background. In reverse LCD, the numbers are light against a dark background, similar to a car's dashboard display.
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    What is the repeatability of weight reading on a Digital Lithium Battery scale? Repeatability has to do with two successive readings and the weight results could be +/- 1 LB.
    What is "AUTO-OFF"? This means the scale will turn off automatically when not in use.
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  • Electro-Mechanical (Dual or Duet) Scales
    QuestionsAnswers
    How do you obtain a "Dial" reading only? On Electro-Mechanical scales, you cannot obtain a reading on the dial only.
    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.
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    What does "Err" message mean? If "Err" is displayed, the scale has exceeded the 400-lb. maximum weight load.
    What does "L" message mean? If "L" message appears on the digital display, the 9-volt battery needs to be replaced.
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    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.
    What is "INSTANT-ON"? The scale will automatically turn on when you step on the platform.
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    What is "AUTO-OFF"? This means the scale will turn off automatically when not in use.
    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.

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    What type of battery should I use for this scale? You should use a 9-volt alkaline battery.
  • Load Cell
    QuestionsAnswers
    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.
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    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.
  • Mechanical Digital Scales
    QuestionsAnswers
    How can I obatin a reading on the Duet Dual Reading scale? (Models: HDR973KD-01; HDR974KD-93; HEM001KD-95; HEM002KD-60) To obtain both "Dial" and "LCD" (digital) readings, locate zero adjustment control under edge of scale, and adjust so dial indicator reads zero. Next, tap the edge of platform. LCD will display "888", then "00". Now step on scale. Your weight will appear on both dial and LCD displays and will remain displayed for 5 seconds before turning off.
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    How can I obtain a "Dial" reading only on the Duet scale? To obtain a dial reading only, do not tap the scale before weighing - simply step on the scale and read weight.
    Can I still use the scale if the LCD display isn't working on the Duet scale? Yes. If the LCD is not working or needs a new battery you can still obtain a reading on the dial only.
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    What does "Err" message mean? If "Err" is displayed, the 300-lb. maximum weight load has been exceeded.
    What does "Lo" message mean? When "Lo" message appears on the digital display, the 9-volt battery needs to be replaced.
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    Will moving the scale affect scale accuracy? Yes. If the scale is moved, you must reset the scale back to zero.
    What is "TAP-ON"? This is an internal mechanism that is triggered when you tap on the scale to start.
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    What is "AUTO-ZERO"? This means the scale is calibrating to zero.
    What is "INSTANT-ON"? This scale will automatically set display to zero upon activation.
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    What is a "ROTATING INDICATOR" with regards to a Duet type scale? A rotating indicator is when the DIAL is fixed and the INDICATOR (Needle) spins to the weight.
    What is "AUTO-OFF"? This means the scale will turn off automatically when not in use.
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  • Scale Batteries
    QuestionsAnswers
    The battery gets hot. What's wrong? Make sure the battery is installed correctly. If the problem continues, check and follow the warranty information.
    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.
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    Can I order a new battery cover? You can order several battery covers through our Consumer Services Dept. Click here for instructions.
    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.
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    How long should the Lithium battery last? The Lithium battery should last for at least 10 years with an average family of 4 weighing once per day.
    Does Health o meter® have models with replaceable Lithium batteries? Yes, some newer models allow you to replace the battery.
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    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.
    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.
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  • Wt. Tracking & Body Fat Scales
    QuestionsAnswers
    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.
    Can I use the "BODY FAT" scale if I have pacemakers or other medical devices? If you use a pacemaker or other mechanical 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.
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    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.
    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.
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    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 appart. "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 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.
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    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.
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    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.
    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.
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    I am having trouble setting the User, Height, Age, and Gender information. What should I do? FOLLOW these steps:
    • 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.
    What do I do after user information has been entered? Tap your person "USER" number (1 or 2) in center of scale with your toe. Your personal profile will appear. Wait until "000{" appears. Stand on scale so bare feet are positioned over silver pad surface. "000" will blink your weight for approximately 3 seconds. "BF" will flash and body fat percentage will appear. The scale will turn off automatically in a few seconds.
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    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%
    What is considered healthy body fat percentage for women? Men? Health professionals outline healthy body fat levels as follows:
      Fit Exceeds Ideal Range Obese
    Women No more than 27% 28%-30% Over 30%
    Men No more than 23% 24%-30% Over 30%

    For further information, consult your physician.
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