Fitbit Sense Dies at the Beach

[m0unta1nh1k3r]

I got my Fitbit Sense watch right after it launched (big mistake?). It has been fine going swimming in the pool and in the shower a few times. It's supposed to be rated for 50m of water resistance. I went to the beach last week, and of course I got into the water (less than 3 feet). I noticed around 3:30 when someone asked for the time, that it was completely unresponsive (battery ~76%). 

I left it alone for the afternoon, since there was nothing I could do about it at the beach. I tried forcing it to restart several times... I tried putting it on the charger-- it got really hot, so I suspect water got inside the watch... some how??? After it cooled down, I put it back on the charger and it didn't get hot. But it's still unresponsive. I have had it in the pool before, and it was okay. I can't imagine what's different about the ocean... other than the maybe the sand? But if it's rated for 50m, where else are you going to be swimming that deep, other than the ocean or a lake?

I called the customer support and they told me to try rubbing the back to look for lights. I guess to confirm that it's completely dead? lol. 

They offered me 35% off a new watch, which means I can buy it for 195$ instead of the sale price of 199$. I called back, unhappy with the 5$ discount, and they offered a free watch band. Unfortunately, they said it's not under warranty, even though the issue is clearly a failure of their "water resistance." Even more frustrating is that for an additional 60$ up front + the 35$ deductible, I could have had it replaced "under warranty" for 95$ instead of 195$. Both options are a rip off. 

Anyone have any luck reviving their watch? I'm definitely not going to buy another 300$ watch that dies at the beach... I was really excited about this watch but have been sorely disappointed by the performance of it and the little help from fitbit support. I'm looking into the Garmin watches, anyone have any recommendations for a good alternative to the sense?

[Gr4ndp4]

Hi, @m0unta1nh1k3r, sorry to hear of your problem, one method I've seen suggested is to place your "Sense" in a sealed box packed with dry rice. The rice is hygroscopic and will absorb any moisture. Have you had a look at your household insurance policy? it's possible it might be covered there.

Cheers

[DramaQueenDiva]

I second @Gr4ndp4 's suggestion, as I suspect water might have gotten in the watch.