Fitbit devices have taken the world by storm, helping millions of people track their fitness and daily activities.
However, like any electronic device, Fitbits can sometimes encounter problems, such as a Fitbit not turning on after swimming.
If you’re in the same boat, don’t worry!
I wrote this comprehensive guide to help you understand the possible causes, troubleshoot the issue, and get your Fitbit back in working order 🙂
Common Causes of Fitbit Not Turning On After Swimming
Fitbit devices may not turn on after swimming due to water damage, charging issues, or firmware glitches. Proper care, such as drying the device, charging with a certified charger, restarting, or factory resetting, can help resolve these issues. If unsuccessful, contact Fitbit support.
Understanding Fitbit’s Water Resistance
Before diving into the details, let me clarify that not all Fitbit models are created equal when it comes to water resistance.
In addition, there is a big difference between water-resistant and waterproof.
A water-resistant device can handle some degree of moisture, like sweat or rain, but might not be suitable for full immersion in water.
On the other hand, a waterproof device can be submerged without any issues.
So, if you went diving with your Fitbit, I am afraid that would have caused it major damage!
Troubleshooting Tips
Before assuming the worst, let’s try some basic troubleshooting to see if you can resolve the issue:
1. Inspect your Fitbit for visible signs of damage:
Check for cracks, loose parts, or any other indications of physical damage.
Perhaps, you hit a hard surface while out swimming with your Fitbit and caused it to crack?
If you notice any issues, they could be the cause of your Fitbit not turning on.
2. Check the charging cable and adapter
Make sure your charging cable and adapter are in good condition and working properly.
It could be that your Fitbit is completely out of charge and the cable is no longer working.
Try using a different cable or adapter if you have any at home to see if that resolves the issue.
3. Dry out your device using silica gel or rice
If you suspect water damage, you can try to dry out your Fitbit using silica gel packets or uncooked rice.
Place your device in a sealed container with either silica gel or rice, and leave it for 24-48 hours.
The moisture-absorbing properties of these materials can help draw out any remaining moisture from your Fitbit.
4. Clean the charging contacts
A faulty cable may not be the only possible reason why your Fitbit is not charging and, as a result, not turning on
In fact, it might be a simple case of stained/dirty charging contacts caused by water.
For peace of mind, inspect the charging contacts on both the device and the cable for any dirt, grime, or corrosion.
Gently clean the contacts with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, and allow them to dry completely before attempting to charge again.
5. Soft reset your Fitbit
A soft reset can often fix minor issues with your Fitbit.
To do this, plug your device into the charger and hold the button (or buttons, depending on the model) for a few seconds.
If your Fitbit turns on after the reset, the problem is likely resolved.
6. Perform a factory reset
If your Fitbit still isn’t turning on after a soft reset, you can try a factory reset.
However, this will erase all your data, so you should really use it as a last resort.
Consult your Fitbit user manual or the Fitbit website for instructions on how to perform a factory reset for your specific model.
7. Contact Fitbit Support for further assistance
If all else fails, reach out to Fitbit Support for help.
They can provide additional troubleshooting steps, assess whether your device is eligible for repair or replacement, and guide you through the process.
Fitbit Warranty
Before calling Fitbit support, let me run you through Fitbit’s warranty policy and how it applies to water damage.
This is so that you are prepared when you talk to support.
Fitbit devices typically come with a one-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials or workmanship.
However, this warranty does not cover damage caused by improper use, accidents, or normal wear and tear.
If your Fitbit model is designed for swimming and you’ve followed the manufacturer’s guidelines for use, water damage should be covered under warranty.
But if you’ve used the device outside its intended water resistance rating or failed to follow the guidelines, the warranty might not apply.
If you believe your device is eligible for warranty coverage, get your proof of purchase ready, as well as your device’s serial number, and a description of the issue to use when filing the claim.
Preventive Measures for Future Use
To avoid running into the Fitbit not turning on after swimming issue in the future, follow these preventive measures:
- After swimming in chlorinated or saltwater, rinse your Fitbit with fresh water to remove any residue that could cause damage over time.
- Avoid submerging your Fitbit in hot water or deep water, or exposing it to high water pressure.
- Keep your Fitbit’s firmware up to date to prevent software-related issues and improve the overall performance of your device.
Conclusion
Dealing with a Fitbit that won’t turn on after swimming can be frustrating, but don’t lose hope.
Hopefully, the troubleshooting steps above helped you solve the issue.
If not, I am sure Fitbit support will be more than happy to help!
Remember, taking proper care of your Fitbit and following the manufacturer’s guidelines can help prevent issues like this from happening again.
