TROUBLESHOOTING & HINTS
ABOUT 25% OF THE MONITORS WE RECEIVE FOR SERVICE THAT HAVE A COMPLAINT ABOUT MALFUNCTIONING OR NOT WORKING PROPERLY ARE FOUND TO BE IN PERFECT CONDITION. THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION SHOULD HELP MOST PEOPLE OBTAIN PROPER OPERATION FROM THEIR POLAR HEART RATE MONITOR.
1. Many people ask questions that are answered in the manual. This is particularly true with respect to programming functions. A thorough study of the manual will answer almost any question that comes up.
2. The most common error in the wearing of the monitor is not having the elastic strap that holds the transmitter on tight enough. Most people think it is tight enough if it is just snug and keeps the transmitter from sliding down. This is not true. The transmitter must be tight enough to make a firm electrical contact with the skin. Generally this will require 6 to 8 inches of the stretch in the elastic. If it is tight enough it will feel uncomfortable at first but after about 5 minutes you will feel no discomfort. If the transmitter is not worn tight enough the most common symptom is erratic heart rate readings that jump from low numbers to high numbers randomly. The monitor may also stay on a very high number, or read 0 or freeze on any number.
3. Erratic readings can also be caused by interference from other heart rate monitors that are within 3 feet, electromagnetic signals from motors or readouts on exercise equipment, power lines, automobiles, TV’s, etc. If any of these is the source of interference the problem will usually go away by moving away from these sources of interference. The Polar coded transmitter systems are much less susceptible to interference from these sources.
4. In order to start working the electrodes should be moist. Saliva works well. Do not moisten with Vaseline, KY jelly, or any other non-conductive compound. Once a little sweat accumulates between the electrodes and skin they will generally work well. A very few people may require conductive gel.
5. Keep the transmitter clean. Rinse off after each use and dry with a towel. Wash occasionally with soap and water.
6. Do not bend the transmitter. Allow it to be its natural shape while it is stored.
ADDRESS:
POLAR SERVICE CENTER
7621 E. JOY ROAD
ANN ARBOR, MI 48105
PHONE 800-287-5901
FAX 734-996-4650
E-MAIL: service@polarservicecenter.com