Vicks Thermometers FAQs
Question: What is the best way to achieve an accurate reading from my thermometer?
Answer:
Digital Sticks
Our Vicks Digital Thermometers are for oral, rectal or underarm use. Whichever method is used, it is recommended that for 15 minutes prior to use avoid eating or drinking any liquids, exercising, taking showers or baths or smoking.
Rectal Thermometers
Your Vicks Rectal Thermometer is designed specifically for rectal use. It is recommended that prior to 15 minutes before use, your child should avoid eating or drinking any liquids, physical activity or bathing.
Question: How should I clean my thermometer?
Answer:
The thermometer should be cleaned in between uses, as necessary after oral, underarm, or rectal measurements.
Clean the probe tip and protective cover by washing with soap and warm water or by disinfecting with rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol).
Wipe dry with soft cloth and let air dry DO NOT BOIL OR CLEAN IN DISHWASHER. This will cause the thermometer to no longer function and will void the warranty.
Do not wash the unit with any thinner or chemical solvent.
Question: What should I do if my thermometer is reading an 'ERR' message?
Answer:
‘ERR’ will be displayed if too much movement or any odd behavior has taken place during a measurement. The display will read Err when the tip of the thermometer is being moved while taking a reading. The display will read ‘ER1’ when a malfunction occurs, and the unit will power off after one minute. The display will read ‘ER2’ when the reading is outside the measurement temperature range. The display will read ‘ER3’ when the ambient temperature is outside the operating temperature rang.
Here are the optimal ambient temperatures. Operating or storing outside these ranges may negatively impact the measurement and potentially damage the thermometer:
Operating environment must be between 59°F -104°F.
Operating and storage environment must be between 15-95% relative humidity.
Store between -13°F and 122°F.
If core body temperature is lower than ambient temperature the reading may be negatively impacted.
Question: What does a flashing display or no display mean when I turn on my thermometer?
Answer: To order parts for your Vicks Humidifier, please email [email protected].
Question: How do I change the battery on my thermometer?
Answer:
SpeedRead & ComfortFlex
When the symbol appears and flashes in the center top of the display, the battery is exhausted and needs replacing.
Using a coin, unlock the battery cover and carefully remove the battery with a non-metallic instrument.
Replace the battery with a 3V, CR1225 silver oxide type or equivalent. Insert the new battery in the positive (+) side facing the battery cover.
Carefully replace the battery cover and, using a coin, tighten the cover.
Ensure the battery door is completely secure after replacing the battery.
RapidRead
When the symbol appears and flashes in the center of the display, the battery is exhausted and needs to be replaced.
Using a coin, unlock the battery cover and carefully remove the battery with a non-metallic instrument.
Replace the battery with a 3V, CR2032 lithium type. Insert the new battery with the positive (+) side facing the battery cover.
Carefully replace the battery cover and, using a coin, tighten the cover.
SmartTemp
When the symbol appears in the lower right of the display, the battery is exhausted and needs to be replaced.
With a coin or screwdriver, release the cover lock located on the side of the thermometer and remove the battery with a non-metallic instrument.
Replace with a type SR41 (long life), LR41, or equivalent, making sure the positive (+) side is facing the back of the thermometer.
Replace battery cover. Your thermometer is now ready for use.
Carefully discard the old battery. Keep out of reach of young children, elderly and pets.
Pacifier Thermometer
Do not attempt to disassemble the unit. There are no user serviceable parts inside. The battery is not replaceable. When the battery is almost exhausted, the following symbol will appear in the display window [ ] indicating the unit should be discarded. Do not use as a regular pacifier after the battery is discharged.
Question: What is my Vicks thermometer warranty?
Answer: All Vicks digital and pacifier thermometers have a 1 year limited warranty. The rectal thermometer has a 3 year limited warranty. This limited warranty applies to repair or replacement of product found to be defective in material or workmanship. This warranty does not apply to damage resulting from commercial, abusive, unreasonable use or supplemental damage. Defects that are the result of normal wear and tear will not be considered manufacturing defects under this warranty.
Question: Is there any way to view the last temperature taken on my thermometer?
Answer:
ComfortFlex, SpeedRead, & RapidRead
The display will show the last temperature measured for 2 seconds.
SmartTemp
You can use the connected app to make a profile for each person and track the complete temperature history over time.
Rectal
When the thermometer is turned on, the last measured temperature will be shown on the LCD display with the letter “M” shown under the degree sign for approximately 2 seconds.
Pacifier
Press and hold the power button while turning on the unit. The last measured temperature will be shown in the LCD display with the letter “M” shown under the degree sign in approximately 3 seconds.
Question: How should I store my thermometer?
Answer: Cover thermometer with the storage case included and store in dry location. Store your thermometer in a dry location free from dust and contamination and away from direct sunlight. Keep between -13°F and 122°F.
Question: How to use probe covers?
Answer:
Disposable probe covers are provided with all Digital Stick Thermometers. Place a cover on the probe tip each time the thermometer is used to help prevent spread of germs. Any generic probe cover will fit on our digital thermometers. Additional probe covers can be purchased at most drug stores or pharmacy departments.
Not applicable to rectal and pacifier thermometers.