How to Calibrate a Digital Pocket Scale Without Weights

A digital scale uses computerized pressure gauges to weigh objects. Calibration of those instruments is usually done in the factory and shouldn’t be required unless they lose accuracy. That said, if your readings start to seem suspect, there are some steps you can take.

Scale Calibration Overview

Normally you need special weights to calibrate a scale and the best way to accomplish this is using the proper scale weights. Sometimes they come with the scale, but if not, such weights can also be purchased (Figure 2).

If weights aren't available and the scale needs to be checked in a hurry, you can improvise makeshift weights using common items available around the house.

Some people use coins, but beware! During all the years that coins have been produced, their weights haven’t remained consistent. Different metal alloys have become available, and the ratio of their use in coins has evolved over time.

This is particularly true of Canadian coins, which have thus proven to be unreliable throughout the years for calibration. US coins, however, have been more consistent for periods of many years, as shown in the table in Figure 3.

If the calibration isn't urgent, it's probably worth purchasing the proper weights. They’re actually available at a great variation in price. As people say, you get what you pay for—pharmacists might need a set of weights priced at a few hundred dollars for their accuracy, where the common household baker would probably be satisfied with a set under $10.

Step 1 - Clean the Scale

The scale must be completely clean so nothing interferes with the calibration process. Many things can make it difficult for the scale to zero, and often you may not even be able to see what's affecting the scale. Cleaning will require special tools and products that will not damage or degrade the scale and its surfaces.

Use a soft bristle brush and a mixture of warm water with a mild soap, to remove residue from the creases around and underneath the pan, then finish with a soft piece of cloth moistened with the same soapy solution. It’s usually not a good idea to wash electronics with a fully soaked cloth, since that creates the risk of water seeping into the internal components, causing short outs or corrosion. Once this is done, use a different cloth to thoroughly dry out every part and surface of the scale.

Step 2 - Prepare the Weight Samples

The amount of weight required to perform the test should be at least half of the capacity of the scale, with two-thirds being ideal to obtain the most accurate reading. So if a scale is rated at 500g, samples weighing between 250g and 350g should be used to do the testing. Whether using proper weights or coins or anything else, the type of weight samples and the quantity of each required should be selected beforehand.

Step 3 - Prepare the Scale for Verification

The scale has to be reset at zero, but first it should be turned on and allowed to warm-up for 10 minutes before calibration. Before starting to calibrate, press the power button to turn it on for one minute, then the off button to turn the power off.

The next step is to set the instrument to “Calibration” by pressing some buttons on the front in a specific sequence that varies between sale models.

Consult the owners manual for this information, and for any other details pertaining to calibration. If you don't have it, try looking up your model online for detailed instructions. The calibration has to be done with nothing on the scale.

First, turn the power on, then press the “Zero” or “Tare” button if there is one present. Wait patiently while the scale clears any remaining data from previous uses. It may take a second, but your scale should show a “0.00” weight once it is zeroed.

Step 4 - Proceed to Calibrate

Once the scale is properly zeroed, you can go about calibrating it properly. If the scale is not zeroing properly, make sure it's on a completely level surface.

It could take up to a minute for the scale to zero, so be patient. The process could vary slightly with different models, so consulting the manual is strongly recommended to ensure proper preparation for the calibration.

Place the calibration weight on the plate, then press the "Unit" key to show the value on the readout screen. If the right value is displayed within the scale’s tolerance, the calibration is completed.

Then remove the samples from the plate, and return the scale to weighing mode by turning it off and then back on again. Then add the weight to the plate again to see if the same reading appears. If it doesn’t, start the calibration again.

Calibrate a Digital Pocket Scale Without Weights FAQ

How can bathroom scales give a different weight if I step off let it reset itself and then get on again?

Scales seem like pretty simple, straightforward devices but actually, all kinds of little things can give you an inaccurate weight reading.

First, make sure the scale is on a perfectly level spot. The scale should also be flat and not sloping or inclining in any way.

Also, make sure the scale is set to zero before you weigh something on it. If you do these things and you're still getting different readings from the scale, it may need calibration.

How do I reset my digital scale calibration?

If your scale needs to be calibrated, you essentially need to set it back to zero. Remove all the batteries from the scale and leave them out for about 10 minutes.

Clean the battery compartment and contact terminals to get rid of any dust and debris that may be in there. Re-insert the batteries.

Place the scale on a flat, level, even surface. Activate the scale by pressing on it with your hand.

You may see a series of dashes or other symbols and then 0 should appear in the display. Test your scale with an item that you know the weight of to see if the scale is reading accurately now.

How do I know if my digital scale is accurate?

To test your scale's accuracy, first make sure it's set to 0 and it's on a flat, even surface. Now, weigh an object that you know the weight of.

Try weighing the object a couple of times to make sure you get the same reading each time.

Do bathroom scales go bad?

Scales can wear out over time, just like any other item. After all, the Grand Canyon was created by wear and tear.

Scales can get out of balance with use and may need calibration or may simply need to be replaced once they reach this point.

How long do digital bathroom scales last?

Digital scales, like anything else, come in a huge range of price points. Lower-end, more affordable scales will not last as long as more expensive scales because they are built with less expensive materials.

A lower quality, more affordable scale could last anywhere from one to three years, though some may last longer. A scale made with a higher grade of materials can last five to 10 years, on average.