Fitbit is a wearable wireless device that measures a number of physiological parameters, from sleep quality to walking distance. Users can synchronize Fitbit with their PC, view detailed data in the form of graphs on Fitbit.com, and try to achieve fitness goals with friends and family. By keeping your Fitbit charged, it will always be ready to log your progress. Note: Most Fitbit devices require a specific power cord. This cable is included with all Fitbit models, but if you've lost it, you'll need to order another one.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Troubleshoot a Fitbit Won't Charge
For instructions on how to charge your Fitbit device, click here
Step 1. Test a USB port
There is a possibility that the USB port you are testing is not working, or is not offering enough power to charge the device. This can especially happen with USB hubs or older USB ports. Try connecting the charger to a different port to see if it works.
Step 2. Plug the Fitbit into a wall outlet and not your computer
The Fitbit doesn't offer a supplied wall power supply, but you can connect the included power cable to any USB adapter, like the ones you use for your phone or tablet. This system will allow you to charge your Fitbit much faster and more efficiently than connecting it to your computer.
Step 3. Clean Fitbit's power contacts
The contacts of the device have a tendency to get dirty and greasy, even after very little use. This can cause charging problems, due to poor contact between the cable and the device.
- To clean the contacts of the device, you will need alcohol and cotton. You may also need a pin to remove any caked residue.
- Review your contacts. If they are not shiny, soak a cotton swab in the alcohol and then scratch them hard.
- If the cotton swab is not enough to clean the contacts, use a pin to scrape off the dirt and then reapply the alcohol.
- Also examine the charger cable to make sure it doesn't need to be cleaned.
Step 4. Reset the device
Rarely, it can be a problem with the device that causes problems with the charging process. Resetting the tracker can help you solve this problem. This varies depending on the Fitbit model you're using.
- Flex - plug the charger into a USB port, then insert the device into the charger. Once the device is connected, insert a small paper clip into the hole on the back of the charger. Press and hold the paper clip for about ten seconds.
- One - Insert the device into the charger and plug it in. Press and hold the button for about 10-12 seconds. Take it out of the charger and then press the button until the screen turns on.
- Surge - press and hold the Home and Select buttons for about 15 seconds. The screen will flash and begin to get darker. Let go of the buttons and wait another 15 seconds. Press and hold both buttons at the same time to turn it back on.
- Charge or Force - Connect the power cable to your Charge, Charge HR or Force. Plug the other end into a USB port. Press and hold the Charge button for about 10 seconds until you see the Fitbit icon and version number. Let go of the button and then unplug the device.
Method 2 of 3: Upload a Fitbit
Step 1. Remove Fitbit tracker from cuff or clip
If you are using the Flex or One model, you will need to remove the tracker before you can charge it.
- Fitbit Flex - There is a slot on the back of the cuff that allows you to access the tracker which is inside. Gently pull the tracker out by bending the rubber cuff to remove it.
- Fitbit One - the tracker is inserted into the rubber clip and can be removed by folding it and pulling it out.
- Fitbit Surge, Charge and Force - Skip to step 2, because these cuffs don't have detachable trackers.
Step 2. Insert the tracker into the charger cable
The operation varies according to the Fitbit model.
- Fitbit Flex and One - Insert the device into the charger. If you look inside the charger cable slot, you will see gold contacts at the bottom of the tracker slot. Line up these contacts with the contacts on the tracker, and gently push the tracker in to snap it into place. You will hear a click when the tracker is in its seat.
- Fitbit Surge, Charge and Force - connect the charger cable to the back of the cuff. Behind the cuff, you will see a small door with a lot of iron contacts. Connect the smaller part of the cable to the port.
Step 3. Connect the charger cable
You can connect it to a computer, a USB wall charger (such as those for iPhone or Android) or a USB - DC adapter (car charger).
Note: The charging cable is different from the sync cable, and you won't be able to sync your Fitbit information to your computer with the charging cable
Step 4. Check the battery levels
Each Fitbit model uses a different method of indicating battery power.
- Fitbit Flex - the lights on the tracker illuminate while the device is charging. Each full light represents a step towards full charge. When all five lights are illuminated, the charging is complete.
- Fitbit One - As soon as you plug in the charging cable, the device screen will light up and you will see the battery indicator. You can check the charge level at any time by pressing and holding the One button. It takes about an hour and a half to fully charge this device.
- Fitbit Surge, Charge and Force - once the cuff is attached, the battery icon on the monitor will indicate charging. It will take about an hour and a half to fully charge these devices
Step 5. Remove the charging cable once charging is complete
If you are using the Flex or One model, you will need to reinsert the tracker into the cuff or clip.
- Fitbit Flex - reinsert the tracker into the cuff. Once the tracker has been fully charged, you can remove it from the charger cable and insert it into the Flex cuff. Make sure you insert it in the correct direction. You will hear a click when it has been entered correctly.
- Fitbit One - reinsert the tracker into the clip. Once the tracker has been fully charged, you can remove it from the charger cable and insert it into the One clip. Make sure you insert it in the correct direction. You will hear a click when it has been entered correctly.
- Fitbit Surge, Charge, Force - remove the charging cable. Once charging is complete, you can disconnect the cord from the cuff. Your Fitbit is charged and ready to use.
Method 3 of 3: Replace a Fitbit Zip Battery
Step 1. Check the battery life
The Fitbit Zip has a replaceable battery, and the indicator lights up when the charge level reaches 25%. You can also check the charge status from the Dashboard.
If the battery indicator flashes, the battery will soon be completely discharged
Step 2. Sync your Fitbit Zip
Removing the battery will erase all stored data, so be sure to sync your device before replacing it.
You can sync your Fitbit using a wireless USB dongle, or the Fitbit app for Android or iOS
Step 3. Buy a battery to replace
You will need a 3V CR2025 coin battery, which you can find at most battery and electronics stores.
Step 4. Open the back of the Fitbit Zip using the battery change tool or a coin
Insert the tool or coin into the notch and rotate them to unlock the back plate.
Step 5. Replace the battery
Remove the old battery and replace it with a new one. Make sure the battery is inserted in the correct direction.
Step 6. Screw the back of the Fitbit Zip back on
Put the back plate back on top of the battery and use the tool or coin to secure it.
Step 7. Sync your Fitbit Zip
Once the battery is replaced, sync your Zip to restore your personal data.
