If your pocket scale shows LO or Lo, it usually means the batteries are low. The most common fix is to install fresh batteries of the correct type or recharge the scale according to its instructions.
Confirm the message in your model’s manual first. For example, the American Weigh Scales CP2-series manual identifies Lo as low batteries and O_Ld as overload—two different problems requiring different actions. awscales.com
Restore the correct power supply before weighing. Calibration does not fix depleted batteries.
Quick Checklist: Pocket Scale Shows LO
| Step | What to check | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Exact display message | Confirm that it says LO rather than an overload code |
| 2 | Required battery type | Check the model’s manual or compartment markings |
| 3 | Battery condition | Replace the complete set with fresh, matching batteries |
| 4 | Battery polarity | Match each battery to the + and − markings |
| 5 | Battery seating | Make sure each battery sits securely |
| 6 | Contacts and cover | Inspect for residue, damage or a loose cover |
| 7 | Rechargeable power | Use the specified cable, supply and charging procedure |
| 8 | Startup | Restart normally with the platform empty |
| 9 | Persistent warning | Record what you tried and contact support |
The AWS product FAQ provides further guidance on display messages and power issues.
1. Confirm That LO Means Low Battery
Small digital displays can make similar characters difficult to distinguish.
On some models:
- LO or Lo indicates low batteries.
- OL, O_Ld or OUEr indicates overload.
- UNST indicates unstable weighing conditions.
These codes vary. Find the exact definitions in the AWS product manuals.
If a message appears after adding a heavy item, remove the load before investigating. Do not assume every message containing “L” concerns batteries.
2. Identify the Correct Replacement Batteries
Check the required battery designation, quantity and chemistry.
Pocket scales may use cylindrical batteries, coin cells or an internal rechargeable battery. Do not assume all compact scales use the same power source.
Before purchasing replacements, record:
- Scale model number
- Battery size or designation
- Number of batteries required
- Whether rechargeable replacements are permitted
A battery fitting into the compartment does not establish compatibility. Duracell’s battery-care guidance recommends using the size and type specified by the device manufacturer. Duracell
3. Replace the Entire Battery Set
For a scale with user-replaceable batteries:
- Remove the item and container from the platform.
- Turn the scale off.
- Disconnect external power, if applicable.
- Open the battery compartment as instructed.
- Remove all existing batteries.
- Install fresh, matching replacements.
- Secure the battery cover.
Do not mix old and new batteries or different battery types. Energizer’s battery-care guidance also advises against mixing battery brands and recommends following the device instructions. North America
What if the Batteries Are Already New?
Check that they are the correct type and have been stored properly. If necessary, try another fresh set from a reliable source.
“Unused” does not always mean fully charged or suitable for the device.
4. Recheck Polarity and Battery Seating
Look directly at the + and − markings inside the compartment.
Adjacent batteries may face opposite directions. For coin-cell models, follow the marked orientation rather than assuming which side faces outward.
Make sure:
- Each battery sits fully in its holder.
- No clearly identified shipping tab remains between the battery and contact.
- The cover closes without excessive force.
- Nothing has been inserted to wedge a battery into place.
Do not add foil or bend contacts to force a connection.
5. Inspect the Battery Compartment
With power disconnected and batteries removed, inspect the accessible compartment for:
- Loose dirt
- White or colored residue
- Wet material
- Bent or broken contacts
- A cracked or loose cover
For ordinary dirt, follow the scale manufacturer’s cleaning instructions. Do not pour liquid into the compartment or scrape contacts with metal tools.
If You Find Leakage
Avoid touching leaked material with bare hands. Cleanup depends on the battery chemistry and the extent of the damage.
Consult the scale manufacturer and the battery manufacturer before proceeding. Duracell’s battery information sheets provide handling information for its battery types. Duracell
If LO Disappears When You Press the Cover
That behavior may indicate a contact or compartment problem. Stop squeezing the housing or holding the cover down as a workaround and seek support.
6. Charge Rechargeable Pocket Scales Correctly
If your pocket scale has a built-in rechargeable battery, use the charging procedure specified for that model.
Check:
- Cable compatibility
- Power-supply compatibility
- Secure connections
- Whether the charging source has power
- Any expected charging indicator
- The required charging period
Do not assume that a similar-looking cable or connector is suitable. Also check whether the scale can operate while charging.
If the battery is swollen, the housing is distorted or the device becomes unusually hot, stop using and charging it and contact the manufacturer.
7. Restart With the Platform Empty
After replacing batteries or charging:
- Place the scale on a stable surface.
- Clear the weighing platform.
- Use the normal startup procedure.
- Allow startup to finish.
- Check whether LO clears and the display reaches zero.
Use only a documented restart procedure. Random button combinations are not a reliable way to clear a battery warning.
For additional power troubleshooting, see the AWS scale FAQs.
8. Check Storage Conditions
A pocket scale stored unused for months may have depleted batteries. A scale carried loosely in a bag may also switch on accidentally.
Consider whether it was:
- Stored with batteries installed for an extended period
- Left in a hot or cold vehicle
- Exposed to moisture
- Carried with pressure on the power button
- Stored with damaged or leaking batteries
Allow the scale to reach its permitted operating temperature before use. Do not heat it with a hair dryer or place it against a heater.
The AWS maintenance guide explains storage and care practices that help protect the scale.
9. Verify Operation After LO Clears
Once the warning disappears, check that the scale starts normally and holds a stable zero.
Then verify performance with an appropriate reference weight for your application. Battery replacement does not automatically require calibration on every model.
Calibrate only when the manual calls for it or a suitable check indicates a measurement problem. Follow the exact model’s instructions and use the specified weight.
The AWS guide on how to calibrate a digital scale explains the process.
Why Does LO Keep Returning?
| What happens | What to investigate |
|---|---|
| LO remains immediately after replacement | Battery type, polarity, seating and contacts |
| LO clears with another fresh set | Condition of the first replacement set |
| LO returns after transport | Accidental activation or loose battery seating |
| Warning changes when the cover is pressed | Contact or compartment damage |
| Rechargeable model never clears LO | Charging setup, battery condition or internal fault |
| LO returns unusually quickly during normal use | Battery suitability, power drain or a possible fault |
There is no universal battery-life estimate for all pocket scales. Usage, battery type and model design affect how long the batteries last.
Handle Removed Batteries Properly
Keep removed batteries secure, particularly button and coin cells. Refit the battery cover correctly before returning the scale to use.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission’s button-battery guidance explains why these batteries must remain inaccessible to children. CPSC.gov
For disposal:
- Consult the EPA’s used household battery guidance and local requirements.
- Follow the EPA’s lithium-ion battery guidance for rechargeable batteries and devices. These should not go into household garbage or municipal recycling bins. US EPA
When to Contact Support
Contact support if LO remains after you have confirmed the correct fresh batteries, polarity, seating and charging setup.
Also seek help for damaged contacts, a broken battery cover, leakage inside the housing or a warning that returns unusually quickly.
Have these details ready:
- Model number
- Battery designation or charging equipment used
- Purchase information
- Exact display message
- Steps already completed
- Any drop, spill or storage history
Contact American Weigh Scales support for model-specific assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does LO mean my pocket scale is broken?
Not usually. It commonly indicates low battery power. Replace the specified batteries or recharge as instructed before investigating further.
Why does my pocket scale show LO with new batteries?
Check the battery type, freshness, polarity and seating. Inspect the accessible compartment for residue or damage. If the warning persists, contact support.
Can I clear LO by pressing tare?
Tare changes the displayed weight reference. It does not restore battery power.
Will calibration fix LO?
No. Restore adequate power first, then verify operation and calibrate only when appropriate.
Can I continue weighing when LO appears?
Resolve the warning before relying on the results. The display remaining illuminated does not establish that power is adequate for normal operation.
Clear the Warning Before Your Next Measurement
Confirm the code, install the correct fresh batteries or charge the scale, and check that the warning clears during normal startup. If LO persists after the power checks, seek model-specific support.