The Owlet baby monitor is a smart device that tracks your baby’s heart rate, oxygen level, sleep quality, and environment using a sock sensor and a camera. It is designed to give you peace of mind and alert you when your baby may need your attention. However, some parents have reported problems with Owlet not working, such as false alarms, inaccurate readings, connection issues, and battery life. In this article, we will explain some of the common problems with the Owlet baby monitor, how to fix them, and how to prevent them from happening in the first place.
Common Problems of Owlet Not Working
False Alarms
One of the most frustrating problems with the Owlet baby monitor is when it sends false alarms, either through the app or the base station. False alarms can cause unnecessary panic and stress for parents, and disrupt the baby’s sleep. Some of the reasons why false alarms may occur are:
- The sock sensor is not fitted correctly on the baby’s foot. The sock sensor should be snug but not too tight and should cover the entire bottom of the foot. The sensor should also be placed on the correct foot according to the size chart in the app.
- The sock sensor is dirty or wet. The sock sensor should be cleaned regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap and dried completely before use. The sensor should also be kept away from moisture, such as saliva, sweat, or urine.
- The sock sensor is damaged or defective. The sock sensor should be inspected for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, tears, or loose wires. If the sensor is damaged or defective, it should be replaced as soon as possible.
- The Wi-Fi connection is weak or unstable. The Wi-Fi connection between the sock sensor, the base station, and the app should be strong and consistent. If the Wi-Fi connection is weak or unstable, it may cause false alarms or delayed notifications. To improve the Wi-Fi connection, you can try moving the router closer to the baby’s room, using a Wi-Fi extender, or switching to a different Wi-Fi channel.
Inaccurate Readings
Another problem with the Owlet baby monitor is when it gives inaccurate readings of your baby’s heart rate or oxygen level. Inaccurate readings can either be too high or too low, and may not reflect your baby’s true condition. Some of the reasons why inaccurate readings may occur are:
- The sock sensor is not calibrated properly. The sock sensor needs to be calibrated before each use to ensure accurate readings. To calibrate the sock sensor, you need to follow the instructions in the app and wait for a green light on the base station.
- The sock sensor is affected by external factors. The sock sensor may be affected by external factors such as temperature, humidity, altitude, movement, or interference from other devices. These factors may cause fluctuations in the readings or interfere with the signal transmission. To avoid these factors, you should keep your baby in a comfortable and stable environment, limit their movement during sleep, and turn off any nearby devices that may cause interference.
- The sock sensor is not compatible with your baby’s physiology. The sock sensor may not work well for some babies who have certain medical conditions or anatomical variations that affect their blood circulation or oxygen saturation. These conditions may include congenital heart defects, respiratory disorders, skin disorders, low birth weight, prematurity, or syndromes such as Down syndrome. If your baby has any of these conditions or variations, you should consult your doctor before using the Owlet baby monitor.
Connection Issues
A third problem with the Owlet not working is when it has connection issues between the sock sensor, the base station, and the app. Connection issues can cause loss of data, delayed notifications, or no notifications at all. Some of the reasons why connection issues may occur are:
- The distance between the devices is too far. The distance between the sock sensor and the base station should not exceed 100 feet (30 meters), and the distance between the base station and the app should not exceed 50 feet (15 meters). If the distance is too far, it may cause signal loss or interference.
- The battery level of the devices is too low. The battery level of the sock sensor and the base station should be checked regularly and charged when needed. The battery level of the app should also be sufficient to receive notifications. If the battery level is too low, it may cause connection failure or reduced performance.
- The firmware of the devices is outdated. The firmware of the sock sensor, the base station, and the app should be updated regularly to ensure optimal functionality and compatibility. If the firmware is outdated, it may cause connection errors or bugs.
Battery Life
A fourth problem with the Owlet not working is when it has a short battery life. The battery life of the sock sensor and the base station depends on several factors such as usage frequency, wifi strength, temperature, and charging habits. The battery life of the app depends on your phone’s settings and other apps running in the background. Some of the ways to extend the battery life of the devices are:
- Charge the devices fully before each use. The sock sensor and the base station should be charged fully before each use to ensure maximum performance and longevity. The app should also be charged fully or plugged in during use to avoid draining your phone’s battery.
- Use the devices only when needed. The sock sensor and the base station should be turned off when not in use to conserve battery power. The app should also be closed or put in sleep mode when not in use to save battery life.
- Maintain the devices properly. The sock sensor and the base station should be cleaned and stored properly to prevent damage or corrosion. The app should also be updated and optimized regularly to prevent glitches or crashes.
Why is my Owlet not working?
Ensure that your mobile device’s software is current. Additionally, confirm that you have installed the latest Owlet Care app. If you’re an iPhone user, ensure you’re on the most recent update. Also, ensure you’re connected to a 2.4 GHz WiFi network for optimal performance.
How do I restart my Owlet?
Rapidly press the button located at the base of the charger (the one with the Medallion symbol) six times within a 10-second window. Afterward, allow approximately one to two minutes for the Medallion’s lights to briefly flash dimly in purple, then turn off, and finally return as dim white. This indicates that the Medallion is resetting and rebooting.
Why did Owlet stop tracking oxygen?
Owlet, the manufacturer of the Smart Sock, has removed its product from its website following a warning letter from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA’s letter, sent last month, emphasized that the Smart Sock is considered a medical device, and Owlet had been selling it without obtaining the necessary “marketing approval, clearance, or authorization” from the FDA.
What happens when the owlet sock battery dies?
When the Smart Sock’s battery is completely drained, it will no longer be able to communicate with the base, and you will receive a blue notification indicating this. A fully charged Smart Sock typically provides 14 to 16 hours of usage. To resolve this issue, simply place the sensor on the Base Station and allow it to charge for approximately 90 minutes until it reaches 100% battery capacity.
Conclusion of Owlet Not Working
The Owlet baby monitor is a smart device that can help you monitor your baby’s health and sleep. However, it is not perfect and may have some problems such as false alarms, inaccurate readings, connection issues, and battery life. To fix these problems, you can follow the tips and solutions we provided in this article. To prevent these problems from happening, you can also follow the best practices and recommendations from the manufacturer and your doctor. Remember, the Owlet baby monitor is not a medical device and should not replace professional medical advice or care. Always consult your doctor if you have any concerns about your baby’s health or well-being.
I hope that my article helped you fix Owlet not working