Tide Clock Instructions

Tide clocks are specially designed clocks that indicate the time until the next low or high tide. Knowing the cycle of the tides can be helpful for fishermen and water sports enthusiasts. Learning to use your tide clock is simple and can be done in just minutes.

Batteries

A tide clock is powered by one AA battery. Tide clock manufacturers recommend using a high-quality alkaline battery, rather than a rechargeable oe, to power your tide clock. Only new batteries should be installed in your clock. To avoid damage from battery corrosion or leakage, never allow an exhausted battery to remain in your tide clock.

Time Frame

Because your clock is controlled by the tides, when you decide to set your clock is important. For best results, set your clock for the first time when your local high tide occurs on the same day as a full moon. Consult a tide chart and lunar calendar to find the ideal date to set your clock (see Resources).

Setting Your Tide Clock

When the day to set your tide clock arrives, move the clock hand to "High Tide." Wait for the exact time of the high tide and then insert one AA battery into your tide clock. Set in this manner, your tide clock should be correct to within 30 minutes. A tide clock differs from a regular clock in that it operates on a cycle of 12 hours and 25 minutes, rather than on a 12-hour cycle. This is because it takes the moon around 24 hours and 50 minutes to circle the Earth.

Care and Maintenance

Proper care and maintenance will help keep your tide clock performing at its best for years to come. Keep your tide clock clean and out of extreme temperatures. Should your tide clock need to be cleaned, wipe it with a soft cloth that has been dampened in a solution of mild soap and water.
If your tide clock experiences a malfunction, check to be sure that the clock's battery is properly installed and replace it if necessary. If the problem persists, contact the tide clock's manufacturer for repair.
If you will not be using your tide clock for an extended period of time, there are a couple of things you can do before storing it away to ensure it will be in good condition when you're ready to use it. Take the battery out of your tide clock before storing it in a cool, dry location. Cover your tide clock to protect dust from building up on it.