radio controlled clocks

[Jules001]

My MIL's kitchen clock is one of the above, however everytime the clocks change, her clock doesn't correct itself, but instead sets itself 4 hours out. She has tried taking out the batteries and then reinserting them, but this doesn't help. Does anyone have any ideas why the clock does this and what she can do to make it tell the correct time again? TIA

[heathfield]

After inserting a battery, the clock will search for a signal, and if it doesn't get one within 5 minutes it will advance to the 4, 8, or 12 position. it will be an hour before it tries again. Once it has the signal it'll update every 5 mins. Try putting it upright against a window, and at least 6 feet away from a TV, computer, or other electrical appliances.

[mibn2cweus]

Many radio controlled clocks initially require manual input of the local time zone to display the correct hour.

[Jules001]

thanks I will tell her and we'll try it again tomorrow.

[Andyvon]

Hello Jules. We have a radio-controlled clock in our lounge and heathfield is quite right with his answer, although we don't have to manually adjust ours at any time. Whenever the battery is removed the clock sets itself to 4, 8 or 12 o'clock - whichever time is nearest. The clock then spends some time apparently doing nothing while searching for the signal from Rugby. Once found, the clock then sets itself to the correct time, although that may take just a few minutes or several hours. The key is to be patient and wait for the clock to sort itself out.

You should also be aware of two other occasions that sometimes affect the clock. If the battery runs low then the time becomes erratic. As soon as a new battery is fitted the clock goes through the procedure outlined above.
Very occasionally it is necessary for the radio station at Rugby to switch off the signal for essential maintenance on the transmitter or clock. That usually occurs at weekends or holiday times which poses the least inconvenience. It can take a couple of days for the signal to be switched back on during which time the clock does nothing. As soon as the signal is switched back on, the clock resets itself.

Your friend should check their clock has a fresh battery and that it is located in a position to receive a good signal (near a window etc.). Then just be patient and the clock should settle itself down.