Troubleshooting a Polar Heart Rate Monitor

Check your battery if your watch is functioning sporadically or not at all. A display that fades in and out is the first sign you need a new battery. Unfortunately, the batteries aren't rechargeable and need to be replaced by sending your unit in to Polar. Polar requires you to send your wrist unit in for battery replacement because the rubber seal that makes the unit water-resistant needs to be tested after the unit is opened. This is the quickest fix for many of the problems you may encounter.

Make sure you are using the monitor correctly. Read the instruction book to make sure you are positioning the heart rate monitor strap on your chest correctly, and that you you have programmed the watch correctly. Some monitors, like the FT80, will let you set your own training goals, so be sure to follow the guide to put the info into your watch correctly. The FT60 has the Polar Fitness test measurement built in to test progress, so be sure to follow the instructions for the test so you get proper readings.

Remove your heart rate strap and lick or wet the electrodes with water if your watch is not finding your heart rate or the ratings are way off. To give an athlete correct data, the electrodes need some moisture, especially when you first put the monitor on and you haven't worked up a sweat yet. You also need to periodically clean them (gently) with soap and water. Straps also have a shelf life. Avoid stretching them, especially in the electrode area. If your strap isn't responding after troubleshooting, you may need to replace it.

Avoid being close to other devices that transmit electromagnetic signals. These signals from devices such as other heart rate monitors, televisions and cell towers can interfere with your monitor. Interference can cause ratings to read too high or low or can stop data receiving for periods of time.

Store your monitor in the proper conditions. Exposure to direct sunlight for long periods or moisture can damage the monitor. Make sure you let the strap dry out post workout before storage. It is okay to wipe off your monitor with a towel. Also, do not press the buttons while wearing the watch in water as moisture may get into the watch even though it is sealed.

Use Polar Product Support, which offers support for every type of heart rate monitor they sell from the RS 300X to the cycling specific CS200cad wrist units and the T31 and T61 straps. The Polar Forum, FAQ and Web Services Area (See Resources) are places you can check for troubleshooting help if the tips above or the owner's manual don't help.



Product Support (See References) is also online, where you can type in specific questions you may have. Under Product Support you can also find video tutorials and downloads. Service Repair information on how to send in your unit whether you are a consumer or or retailer along with a general price sheet can also be found in the support area. Checking your repair status and repair payments can also be done online.