DryBuddyFLEX 3 - FAQ
Q | When should I get a DryBuddyFLEX as opposed to a DryBuddy 2? |
A |
Both use a similarly functioning true wireless magnetic sensor that can be used with standard cotton briefs or with DryBuddy wetness sensing briefs. Both can produce very loud alarm sounds and have volume controls. The DryBuddyFLEX is designed to be used inside a home or building where AC power is available. The transceiver, which contains the receiver and alarm, must be connected to an AC power source. The wireless range of the DryBuddyFLEX is much greater, and its alarms are louder. The DryBuddyFLEX 3 can be used for silent monitoring by switching the sound off and/or using a remote alarm location. The DryBuddyFLEX provides the convenience of a wireless remote. If alarms are needed at more than one location, or multiple alarms are needed anywhere, the DryBuddyFLEX will allow this. Auxiliary alarms such as a bed-shaker can be attached and used. For use inside a home or building, the DryBuddyFLEX is the most sophisticated and convenient-to-use bedwetting alarm available anywhere. The DryBuddy 2 is designed for use inside a home or outside as it uses batteries to power its receiver which should be carried by the user, typically in a pocket. When alarm privacy is required, the DryBuddy 2 has a softer vibration which the user can feel through a pant pocket, like a cell phone. It is much more convenient than any "wired" alarm. When alarm privacy is not required, the DryBuddy 2 receiver can produce loud musical sounds and strong vibrations, louder and stronger than any battery-powered wired or wireless alarm that we have measured. For mobile use, the DryBuddy 3 is the most convenient and sophisticated bedwetting alarm available anywhere. |
Q | What is the difference between the original DryBuddyFLEX and the DryBuddyFLEX 3 or DryBuddyFLEX 2? |
A | The original used a transceiver that was wall mounted and connected to an AC socket from which it obtained power. The 2016 transceiver is a table top unit which receives power from a wall mounted AC power supply. The table top transceiver has better ergonomic features and is a much better solution for most children and patients. |
Q | What is the difference between the new DryBuddyFLEX 3 and the previous DryBuddyFLEX 2? |
A |
1. A much longer wireless transmission distance of up to 200 feet or 61 meters. 2. A noticeably louder sound alarm, the loudest in the industry. 3. A special silent setting. Good for monitoring patients who are not to be disturbed. 4. The Transceiver has only one button on top for daily operations. 5. Daily operations can be done by only using the one button on top of the Transceiver. It can also be done by only using the Remote. 6. The DryBuddyFLEX 3 can be set up to prevent users (children) from turning it off to avoid the alarm sounding and then turning it back on again. 7. It can be set to only be switched on (into its ready state) with the Remote, which can be kept by the parent or caregiver. 8. The connection from the power supply involves a special connector so that it will not be disconnected accidentally. 9. The power supply comes with plugs that can be used with AC sockets in the U.S., E.U. and U.K. This allows the DryBuddyFLEX 3 to be conveniently used in most parts of the world. |
Q | How does the DryBuddy system sense wetness? What should a user understand to better use the DryBuddy system? |
A |
The following is excerpted from https://bed-wettingalarms.com/about-bedwetting-alarms-understanding-and-using/ How a Bedwetting Alarm Works: All bedwetting alarms work on a simple principal. If an electrical insulator such as air or dry briefs separates two electrical conductors having a small voltage across them, this results in an electrical open circuit. So no current will flow between the conductors to any electric circuit to which they are attached. When the insulator (briefs) gets wet, electricity flows more easily between the two conductors, and this triggers the sensor to create the alert. Urine contains electrolytes (salts) which makes it a better conductor of electricity than plain water. Better alarms will distinguish between water and urine (or salt water). Better alarms can also distinguish between a “rush” or quick increase of urine as opposed to a slow increase in wetness as may be caused by perspiration. Always remember that if the urine does not reach the activating part of the sensor, the alarm cannot “know” that it should alert. This should explain why the alarm can only respond when urine reaches the activating part of the sensor, which is the gap between the 2 magnetic pads on our magnetic sensor. When using regular cotton briefs, the wetness must reach the sensing area of the sensor quickly. With the DryBuddy wetness sensing briefs, the wetness must reach anywhere between two adjacent wires. As these wires extend over a large part of the briefs, the sensing area is much larger than with regular briefs and wetness gets sensed much more readily. Because we have built in perspiration resistance in our system, the system will not respond to a gradual increase in wetness as is caused by perspiration. The wetness must come “in a rush.” This should explain why the system may not respond if your child discharges urine away from the sensor, and the discharge is small enough so that it does not percolate quickly through the material of the briefs. Also, if there is any wetness in the briefs when the sensor is attached, the sensor can sense a sudden increase of wetness from nothing to something and get triggered. |
Q | What is the best way to test the DryBuddyFLEX wireless system to make sure that the system works. |
A | The best way to test the entire system is to synchronize the sensor, remote and transceiver as explained in the DryBuddyFLEX instructions. If synchronization succeeds, everything is working. |
Q | Is one type of clothing better or worse than another for use with the DryBuddy magnetic sensor? |
A |
Underwear made of good moisture-absorbing cotton is best. Cotton briefs (for males) and standard cotton briefs/panties (for females) work best, because they allow the sensor to remain close to the patient's body. The DryBuddyFLEX magnetic wireless sensor can be attached to any clothing such as underwear or pajama pants that allow the sensor to be attached near the point of urination. The material must be moisture absorbent, such as cotton. Although loose clothing such as boxers or pajamas are usable, it can take longer for the urine to reach the sensor, which results in more urination and delays the alarm. Remember that urine must wet the cloth material between the two magnets on the sensor or between the two ends of the clip, to cause the alarm to sound. And it must do so quickly (in a "rush"). Seeping slowly through the cloth can be interpreted as wetness caused by perspiration and be ignored. So the closer the sensor or briefs and sensor are to the point of urination, the sooner the alarms will be turned on. Loose-fitting underwear or clothing can result in inconsistent triggering of the sensor and alarm. The DryBuddy wetness sensing briefs overcome these problems and are recommended so as to provide a very large area on which urine can fall, compared to the small area for the DryBuddy magnetic sensor or any other sensor which must be wet to activate the sensor. A little urine on the wetness sensing briefs is very likely to trigger the sensor. |
Q | How should I attach the magnetic sensor to the briefs? Can I attach the sensor to Pull-ups? |
A |
For male briefs with a “pocket,” place the sensor inside the pocket with the magnets facing the skin. For all briefs or other clothing, the magnetic “cap” is placed on the inner side of the briefs, and clamps the magnetic sensor to the briefs using magnetic force.
For DryBuddy wetness sensing briefs, the sensor is attached at the waist-band using snaps. If you decide to use some form of diaper (for example, Pull-ups) to hold in excess fluid, please do not attempt to attach the sensor to the diaper. The area between the two magnets must get wet, which they won't if attached to pull-ups. We recommend attaching the sensor to regular cotton briefs or DryBuddy wetness sensing briefs, and then wearing pull-ups over them. This way the sensor gets wet and the alarm should sound. |
Q | What type of underwear should I use with a magnetic sensor attached to it? |
A |
The DryBuddy magnetic sensors will work best when used with firm-fitting underwear. The perspiration resistance designed into DryBuddy sensors can result in the sensor not responding to slow moisture seepage in the material of the briefs. Positioning the sensor where the urine is discharged is important. Firm-fitting underwear allows the discharged urine to fall on or get to the sensor faster than may happen with loose-fitting underwear. We recommend not using boxers, pajama pants or any other type of loose-fitting wear to which the sensor may be attached. A firm fit is when the attached sensor makes contact with the body, and does not sag or stay away from the body. To keep the fit firm, another set of firm briefs or diaper-like devices can be worn over the briefs with the attached sensor. Please understand that urine must reach the sensor quickly in order to get consistent triggering of the sensor. Please note that almost all bedwetting alarms have a sensor that activates on a small area where the sensor is attached and which must get wet to trigger the sensor. Almost all bedwetting alarms will trigger with wetness creeping through the briefs as they are not perspiration resistant and will respond to perspiration and other false wetness. Such triggers are often late as the wetness has to seep through the cloth of the briefs. If you have issues with a male patient who is not releasing urine near the sensor, please consider using the optional DryBuddy wetness sensing briefs which will work with the DryBuddy2, DryBuddy1 or DryBuddyFLEX. These unique and patented briefs have a very large wetness sensing area which will consistently sense the urine, regardless of the direction of its emission, and sense it immediately. |
Q | How should I attach a DryBuddy Magnetic Sensor to a Wetness Sensing Brief? |
A |
Q | Where do I place the magnetic sensor on his or her standard cotton briefs? |
A | Place the sensor near the point of urination. For a boy place it about one inch below in either horizontal or vertical position. For a girl place it in the crotch vertically. |
Q | How to measure for the size for the DryBuddy wetness sensing briefs? |
A | Take a measuring tape and measure around the waist at the navel or "belly button." |
Q | Any suggestions for what cotton material in briefs works best? |
A | When using regular cotton briefs, thicker cotton material allows the briefs to soak and spread the urine discharge faster and more effectively to the sensor. The DryBuddy wetness sensing briefs that we provide are made from thick soft cotton material. |
Q | Are there any briefs that were used to design your wetness sensing briefs as a template? |
A | When DryBuddy designed the patented wetness sensing briefs, we used Hanes and Fruit-of-the-Loom so as to have commonly accepted sizes. |
Q | How do I make the DryBuddyFLEX 3 work only through the Remote so that the child (patient) cannot turn it on with the Button on the Transceiver? |
A |
The DryBuddyFLEX 3 can be set to operate only through the Remote (Button on top of the Transceiver is inactive), or to operate both with the Remote and the Button on top of the Transceiver (universal). To set the system to operate using only the Remote (Button on top of the Transceiver is inactive), synchronize the system using the ON button on the Remote. When the ON button is pressed during synchronizing, one beep will be heard. When synchronizing, the Sensor can be followed by the Remote, or vice-versa, but the ON button on the Remote must be used during synchronization. This setting is used if the child/patient is not to be allowed to turn the system ON and OFF during use, as the parent/caregiver wants keep the Remote and have complete control of turning the alarm ON and OFF during use. |
Q | The DryBuddyFLEX 3 seems to only work with the Remote. How do I make it work with the Button on top of the Transceiver as well (universal)? |
A |
The DryBuddyFLEX 3 can be set to operate using the Remote as well as the Button on top of the Transceiver (universal), or with only the Remote (Button on top of the Transceiver is inactive). To set the system to operate using the Remote as well as the Button on top of the Transceiver (universal) synchronize the system using the OFF button on the Remote. When the OFF button is pressed during synchronizing, two beeps will be heard. When synchronizing, the Sensor can be followed by the Remote, or vice-versa, but the OFF button on the Remote must be used. This setting is used if the child/patient is to be allowed to turn the system ON and OFF during use. |
Q | What is the wireless frequency of the DryBuddy system? Can it harm biological tissue or DNA? |
A |
The wireless transmission frequency of the DryBuddy wireless system is 433 MHz.
From Gizmodo.com at https://gizmodo.com/here-are-the-true-radiation-dangers-in-your-environment-1723239205 “Stuff that can damage biological tissues or DNA directly is called ionizing radiation. This includes high-energy electromagnetic waves — gamma rays, x-rays, and the higher part of the UV spectrum — and energetic particles produced by radioactive decay.” The FCC presents “Frequently asked questions about the safety of radio frequency (RF) and microwave emissions from transmitters and facilities regulated by the FCC” at from which we quote [Ionizing radiation] “requires interaction with high levels of electromagnetic energy. Those types of electromagnetic radiation with enough energy to ionize biological material include X-radiation and gamma radiation…The energy levels associated with RF and microwave radiation, on the other hand, are not great enough to cause the ionization of atoms and molecules, and RF energy is, therefore, is a type of non-ionizing radiation.”
The FCC regulates all radio transmission devices to ensure that they will not harm human tissue and DNA during use. All DryBuddy wireless devices are tested by an independent FCC certified laboratory and the results are submitted to the FCC. Our products meet and surpass all FCC requirements and are so certified by the FCC. The frequency of transmission of the DryBuddyFLEX system is 433 MHz. Transmission power is a small fraction of the power transmitted by a cellular phone. Wireless transmission time is also a small fraction of one second and only occurs once at the time the sensor is triggered by wetness. Radio frequencies and constant radiation power even up to what is used in WiFi at home and elsewhere does not harm tissue or DNA. The DryBuddyFLEX is certified by the FCC to not be harmful.
The FCC and FDA-CDRH are responsible for the safety of all medical devices including this one. Anybody can contact the FCC or FDA to verify what we are saying above, which is also accepted scientific fact. |
Q | If my wireless DryBuddyFLEX system stops working, what should I do first? |
A | If the DryBuddyFLEX is perceived to not work, please synchronize it. Without synchronizing, the device will not work. Synchronizing is described in the DryBuddy Instructions in Column 3. Detailed instructions are in Panels 11 and 12. |
Q | I cannot decide whether to use the magnetic sensor or the DryBuddy wetness sensing briefs. Any suggestions? |
A | In order for any sensor to work, the wetness must reach the sensor quickly (in a "rush"). With the magnetic sensor, this area is where the two magnets come together. For many patients and normal circumstances this is fine. With boys and male users, lying on a side may cause the urine to fall away from the sensor. This can happen with the great majority of sensors where their sensitive area is very small. The wetness sensing briefs are particularly useful if the wetness may be in a small quantity and may occur in different locations. For example, the point at which urine is released in a male can depend on how the patient is lying. This could result in the urine not coming out where the magnetic sensor is attached to the briefs. So if the patient only releases a small quantity of urine, the large and wide sensing area on the briefs will sense this wetness readily. Many patients find the wetness sensing briefs more comfortable to wear and use as the sensor is attached near the waist. |
Q | My child sometimes plays with or pulls off the sensor without realizing that he is doing it. How can I prevent this from happening? |
A | This can happen with any sensor. A possible deterrent is to use Pull-Ups or diapers over the briefs to which the sensor is attached. This can prevent accidentally detaching or displacing any sensor. It can also help absorb any excess urine at the time of the "accident." Another pair of briefs or pajama pants can also be used, but will not absorb extra urine. |
Q | The metal pad on the magnetic sensor is scratched. Why is that? |
A | The pad of the magnetic sensor is made of relatively soft stainless steel which holds magnetism well but scratches easily. During manufacturing, assembly and testing, these pads inevitably get scratched. We don’t have any sensors that are scratch free. This in no way affects the usefulness or life of the device. |
Q | My DryBuddyFLEX / DryBuddy 2 wireless alarm was working. Then it stopped working. It tests OK but the sensor does not send the signal to the receiver. What should I do? |
A | First, make certain that the system is synchronized. Both the DryBuddyFLEX (Sensor, remote and transceiver(s)) and the DryBuddy 2 (sensor and receiver) must be synchronized to work. |
Q | My son sleeps on his stomach. When moving around at night, his hip movement can make the magnetic sensor come off the briefs. What should I do? |
A | We recommend that the patient wear Pull-Ups or diapers to "protect" the sensor and keep the sensor from having substantial pressure placed on it by the body moving across the mattress. Many parents like to use Pull-Ups or diapers over the briefs and clip to absorb excess urine and not allow other clothing and bedclothes from getting soaked. The alarm will still wake the patient when he wets, but the sensor is "protected" and will not have undue stress placed on it. And, of course, everything on the outside stays dry. It is the alarm sounding when the patient wets that helps condition the patient to recognize signs of a full bladder. So the outer protective briefs will not hinder the learning process. An outer pair of briefs over the sensor can also help protect the sensor from getting "rubbed or knocked" off. Pajama pants will also help. But they will not provide the urine absorption and protection of the Pull-Ups or diapers. |
Q | My child does not wake up when the alarm sounds. What should I do? |
A | The DryBuddyFLEX 3 generates 97.2 dB at a distance of 20 centimeters (8 inches) from the ear, 91.5 dB at 60 centimeters (2 feet), and 86.4 dB at 1.5 meters (5 feet). This is louder than any other bedwetting alarm. Audiologists recommend that sustained sounds louder than 85 dB could harm a child's or person’s hearing. The volume can be adjusted using the built-in volume control. Your child may be one who does not wake up to this sound and needs additional stimulus or action by the parent or caregiver. Please keep in mind that parental or caregiver involvement with the child is essential to help the child overcome bed wetting. This is particularly true when the alarm is first being used, as the child is not yet accustomed to hearing it. We recommend that a caregiver go to the child immediately upon the alarm sounding, and make certain that the child is awake, and help with the child's voiding of urine, and the cleanup and other procedures that may require to be done. As the child gets more accustomed to the alarm and sensing bladder pressure, the child may handle matters more adequately on his/her own. But prompt parental checking and involvement is essential to help in the child being responsive to the alarm. Remember that a bedwetting alarm is intended to alarm when wetness reaches its sensor. If wetness does not reach the sensor, the device will not alarm. The alarm is NOT responsible for waking the child or patient or making the patient get up, go to the toilet, clean up, and perform other activities. Children often do not want to get up and will ignore the alarm. The parent or caregiver must be responsible for making certain that the child or patient is responsive when the alarm sounds, and wakes up and does the needful. |
Q | The DryBuddyFLEX alarm worked fine for several days. Then, every night, my child wakes up wet and we find that the alarm has been turned off. The alarm tests OK. What should we do? |
A | A possibility, and one that has been encountered before on many occasions, is that the child does not wish to be woken up by the alarm, and intentionally turns it off. This situation is one that the parent(s) will have to deal with. A user suggested her successful method for motivating her child to stop turning the alarm off. "What worked with my son (who is 7) was a bit of stick along with all the carrots. I told him that if he wetted at night and I found that he had switched the alarm off, he would be doing some of the yucky work of cleaning his mess. This was enough motivation for him to stop turning it off." |
Q | My child has been using the DryBuddyFLEX System and has been dry for the past five nights? Should I stop using DryBuddyFLEX, or how do I know when to stop using it? |
A | Often, there is a psychological component to bedwetting. This could be due to low self esteem on the child’s part, or convincing himself that he has a problem that cannot be solved. Sometimes, negative parental or peer pressure can add to this feeling of helplessness. With proper encouragement from parents, and a positive “can do” attitude on the child’s part, using the DryBuddyFLEX system can help relieve this psychological pressure on the child, and aid in stopping the bed wetting. When your child has been dry for several days, you may discuss with your child about whether he would like to try a night without DryBuddy. If he has adequate self-confidence, he may agree to this. Assure him that if he does have an accident, both you as the parent, and DryBuddyFLEX are there to help him again with attempting to get dry and stay dry. You may have to go through a few iterations till your child is comfortable and confident about not using DryBuddyFLEX and remaining dry at night. |
Q | How do I synchronize the system? |
A | Refer to the instructions provided with the DryBuddyFLEX system on our site at DryBuddy.com. |
Q | Where should I place the transceiver? |
A | The DryBuddyFLEX single transceiver should be placed within the same room as the patient. The closer it is to the child or patient, the louder it will be. |
Q | How close must I place a transceiver (receiver) so that the sensor's signal will be received by the transceiver? |
A | The DryBuddyFLEX 3 sensor's signals have a free air transmission distance of up to 200 feet or 61 meters. In a house, depending upon the materials in the direct wireless transmission path from the sensor to the transceiver, it may be less. Please remember that the transceiver also contains the audible alarm intended for the patient. It is therefore advisable to place a transceiver in the patient's room on a table or other furniture close to where the patient sleeps or is likely to be when the alarm sounds. The sensor's signal should be clearly received by the transceiver. We would recommend that the transceiver not be “hidden” by a metal cabinet or other such furniture which could absorb radio waves. |
Q | How can the DryBuddyFLEX system transmit its signals throughout the home? |
A | When the sensor senses urine, it transmits its wireless signal which is received by a transceiver. There are no "wireless distance" limitations, except that one transceiver must be within wireless range of the sensor (possibly up to 90 feet or 27 meters), and repeater transmitters which receive and re-send the signal must be within range of one another (up to 105 feet or 32 meters) These transceivers can even be "daisy-chained" over long distances. The only restriction is that a maximum of five transceivers can be used in a system. After setting up your system, always test and confirm that all transceivers receive their signals. |
Q | I need to monitor my child during the day. My child also likes to play in our yard. Can I use DryBuddyFLEX under these circumstances? |
A | DryBuddyFLEX is a urine-wetness alarm which sends a wireless signal to transceivers (receivers) which turn on the alarms. The time of the day, or condition/age of the patient does not affect its working. The only thing to keep in mind is that the patient must be within wireless receiving distance of any of the receivers. If the child is in the home, this should not be a problem. Within limited distances outside the home this should also work. One way to extend the outside range is to place a receiver in an outside electric socket of your house, near where your child plays. A 100 feet outside range is a reasonable expectation, and the wireless signal can travel up to 200 feet. Test it under your conditions for use and identify what will work for you. This is just a brief explanation to say that DryBuddy should work for your child, as long as he/she does not get too far from your house and within wireless reception range of a transceiver. |
Q | The DryBuddyFLEX system comes with one alarm. Can I add additional alarms for use in other rooms in the house? |
A | You can add additional alarms (transceivers) anywhere within your house where there is an electric outlet. The transceivers must be within transmission/reception range of another transceiver (a maximum of 105 feet or 32 meters), and a maximum of five transceivers can be used in a system. |
Q | I have plugged the transceiver's power supply into a wall electric outlet and connected it to the transceiver, but I can't get it to turn on. |
A | In many homes, the standard is to have two electric outlets together. Often, one outlet is connected to an on/off wall switch, while the other is "live" all the time. You should connect the transceiver's power supply to a "live" outlet. If, for some reason, you must connect the power supply to a switched outlet, please make certain that the outlet is switched ON. |
Q | I understand that using the remote's OFF button is useful for turning the system's alarms off after the sensor is activated. When would I use the remote's ON button? |
A | Under normal operating conditions, you only use the remote's ON button to switch the system ON and into its ready state in which it can receive the sensor' signal, when the system has been switched completely OFF. The OFF button on the remote can be used when the alarm is sounding to turn the alarm OFF and put the system into its ready state. When the OFF button is pressed while the system is in its ready state, the system will be switched completely OFF. |
Q | When I attach the sensor to briefs which I believe are dry, the sensor is triggered immediately and the alarm sounds. Why is this happening? |
A |
If the alarm sounds immediately when the sensor is attached to briefs, the briefs are wet where the sensor is attached. The system is designed to be responsive to a quick increase in wetness. So if there is no wetness (the dry sensor not attached to anything) and then there is a quick increase even to a little wetness (the sensor being attached to briefs that may have even a little wetness in them) the system sees a big jump in wetness from nothing to something and gets triggered. If the briefs are truly dry, they will not trigger the sensor when it is attached. Unless there is wetness across the sensing gap in the sensor, the sensor cannot be triggered. This wetness can be introduced when wearing the briefs, for example having wet hands or having some wetness in the groin area which the briefs absorb quickly. If the sensor is defective so that it triggers when there is no wetness across the sensing gap, the sensor’s battery would be depleted within three to four days, as the sensor would get triggered every two minutes. The sensor would then stop working. If the sensor is triggering, this indicates that the sensor is working. In the case of the DryBuddy briefs, as with the magnetic pads on the sensor, the wetness must come “in a rush.” These briefs, and the sensor, are very sensitive to even a little urine “suddenly” being sensed. We, and our many users, have found that if the briefs are truly dry, attaching the sensor does not trigger the alarm. However if, when putting on the briefs, any moisture is placed on them (for example hands that are not fully dry, or a drop of urine or wetness is on or around the penis or crotch), when the sensor is attached the sensor sees a sudden increase in wetness and activates the alarm. You can test the dryness of the briefs by attaching the sensor to them. If they are truly dry, the alarm will not get triggered. We would suggest doing this while the dry briefs are on a dry table and not being worn. If the sensor is not triggered, then the briefs are dry, and leaving the sensor attached to the dry briefs should not trigger the alarm indefinitely, unless some moisture is introduced. |
Q | The alarm is triggered and there appears to be no wetness on the briefs. Why is this happening? |
A |
If the alarm is triggered and it appears that the briefs are not wet, it is very likely that some moisture has been introduced. Even a drop of moisture can trigger the sensor. The wetness sensing briefs are even more sensitive to sensing wetness than standard briefs due to the large and more sensitive wetness sensing area. A quick way to check whether the briefs are wet is to disconnect the sensor from the briefs, and then reattach the sensor at the same spot where it is being triggered. After the two minutes built-in pause, the sensor will trigger if the briefs are wet. This same test can be performed by not detaching the sensor. After the alarm has been turned OFF to silence the alarm, switch it ON again after two minutes. The alarm will trigger if there is wetness on the briefs. |
Q | Normally, should an auxiliary alarm's (additional audio alarm or bed shaker) switch be on or off? |
A | Normally, the switch on top of any auxiliary alarm attached to the transceiver is ON. So when the sensor senses urine and sends its signal, the transceiver gets switched on and the alarm sounds. |
Q | In my child's bedroom, should I keep the auxiliary alarm on a bed-side table, or should I keep it in a distant spot so my child cannot conveniently turn the alarm off by depressing the OFF switch on top of the alarm? |
A | We would recommend placing the auxiliary alarm close to the child to maximize its effect. The bed shaker works very well placed under the patient's pillow, and the audio alarm can be placed next to the pillow. In case this audio alarm is turned OFF by the patient, the main audio alarm in the transceiver will continue to sound. The Transceiver, which contains the main audio alarm, can be placed on a bed-side table, or further away so that manually switching it OFF will involve getting out of the bed. The bed shaker can only be turned OFF when the transceiver alarm is turned OFF. |
Q | The DryBuddyFLEX system comes with one or two alarms which are built into the transceivers. Can I add additional alarms for use in other rooms in the house? |
A | You can have an alarm anywhere in your house where you have a transceiver plugged in and powered by an AC electric outlet. Every transceiver must be within transmission and reception range of at least one other transceiver in the system. 105 feet or 32 meters is the maximum distance between two transceivers. |
Q | How sensitive is the DryBuddy sensor to sensing |
A | To simulate actual use, a very mild solution of saline was prepared, adding one-quarter teaspoon of common salt to two cups of water. A single drop of this solution was dropped on typical cotton cloth, which left a wet spot approximately one inch in diameter. When both electrodes (magnets) of the sensor were placed on this wet spot, the alarm sounded. Likewise, if a drop of this salt water solution was dropped on the wetness sensing briefs so that the wetness would spread to two adjacent wires in the briefs, the alarm would sound. Please remember that the DryBuddyFLEX is designed to not respond to gradual increases in wetness as may be caused by perspiration. So a gradual spread of wetness from a drop where it is deposited to the sensor may be too slow to cause an alert. |
Q | I received a DryBuddy box which had been opened and resealed by DryBuddy with an official seal. Why is that? |
A | Unlike other bedwetting alarm manufacturers, at DryBuddy we frequently upgrade/update our products, components and instructions so that we can provide our customers with the latest features and best experience. When an item has been upgraded, we open the box, include the correct updated item, and reseal the box. We also place a new official sticker over the box so that the customer understands what we have done. We believe, and most customers would agree, that a customer would rather have the latest updated products. |
Q | How can I test the sensor to verify that it is working? |
A | First you must set up at least one transceiver with the built-in alarm, and verify that the alarm will sound when the transceiver's test switch is depressed. Then turn the transceiver off and into its ready state. You can perform a “dry” test of the sensor by placing a clean key or other convenient electricity conducting material across the two magnets on the sensor, thereby "shorting" them. Or you can immerse the two magnets of the sensor into salt water in a cup. The alarm should then sound. If it does not, then you probably have to re-synchronize the system with the sensor, remote and transceiver(s). Please note that the DryBuddyFLEX sensor has a three minutes delay built into it to conserve the battery. This means that when the sensor is triggered (turned ON) it cannot be turned ON again until at least three minutes have passed. This allows the user to clean and dry the sensor and prepare it for use again, without constantly triggering the sensor and wasting the battery. |
Q | I started using the DryBuddy alarm a few days ago. When the alarm sounds and I go and check my child, he is wet. What is happening? |
A | When any bedwetting alarm is first used with children, the child may not be able to stop urination upon hearing the alarm and will void himself/herself. Although the alarm may sound promptly, this involuntary voiding creates the false impression that the child is wet because the alarm did not sound promptly. With some time and experience, the child should learn to stop urinating upon hearing the alarm, and then to sense bladder pressure and not urinate involuntarily. |
Q | I tried to test the sensor by attaching it to some cotton cloth and wetting the cloth adequately with water. The alarm did not sound. What is wrong? |
A | Urine contains certain electrolyte salts which results in urine being a better conductor of electricity than water. The sensor will not reliably detect water. If you want to conduct a "wet" test, add some common salt (sodium chloride) to some water, and use this salty solution for your test. Another easier way to check the sensor is to simply immerse the sensor's magnetic pads into the salty water, and the alarms should sound. |
Q | How should I clean the sensor after it is soiled? |
A | We recommend cleaning the DryBuddyFLEX sensor by hand using hand soap. Liquid hand soap or dish-washing soap are both convenient for cleaning, as is using a soft sponge. Do NOT use any abrasive or scouring cleaning solution, pad or brush. Clean gently, without applying much pressure, so that the surface of the sensor and its magnets and snaps are not abraded, and the sensor's seal against wetness is not broken. Immediately dry the sensor with a dry towel. Also, do not use any cleanser that contains any oil or petroleum products which could place an electrically insulating film over the magnet sensors or snaps. Clean the cap too. When drying the sensor and cap, nominal trace water wetness is acceptable and should not affect the performance of the sensor, as the sensor will not turn on unless there is adequate urine on the cloth between the two magnet sensor points, or the briefs are sufficiently wet between two adjacent wires. |
Q | How should I clean the DryBuddy wetness sensing briefs after it is soiled? |
A | The wetness sensing briefs are machine washable and can also be washed by hand. When machine washed, use warm water and a gentle cycle. Air dry or tumble dry on air or low heat. Do NOT use bleach or fabric softener when washing, or fabric softener when drying. Do NOT wring the briefs, or subject them to undue stress, or expose them to caustic chemicals which could damage the stitched-in wiring. Before using the DryBuddy briefs for the first time, please launder the briefs or soak them in warm water. This is intended to remove starch from the cloth, and allows the cloth to become more absorbent to water and other fluids. |
Q | Are batteries used in the DryBuddyFLEX system? Will users need to replace batteries? |
A | The Sensor, which is completely wireless and attached to the briefs of the patient, contains a small battery. The sensor is designed so that under normal and proper use, the battery should last for more than two thousand "triggers" (turning the sensor ON) without failure. The remote has a changeable 3V battery (CR2032), and is also designed to allow the battery to last for three thousand "activations" (ON/OFF buttons being depressed) under normal and proper use. All other parts of the DryBuddy system receive electric power from the electric power line (120V 60Hz in the U.S.A. and North America, and and 220-240V 50Hz in European Union countries). Consequently, the user will not be replacing any batteries except in the remote on an exceptional basis. |
Q | How long does the battery in the sensor last? |
A | The battery in the sensor is used or drained only when the material between the two magnets on the sensor, or between adjacent wires of the briefs, is wet. We recommend promptly cleaning and drying the sensor, at which time there will be no further battery drain. Depending on your use of the sensor, the battery could last for well over a two thousand "turn ONs" for the DryBuddyFLEX, perhaps for several years. The DryBuddy 2 sensor's battery should last for over 800 "triggers."A new battery is installed in the sensor at the time of production. Please also see the General Note at the bottom of this FAQ page. |
Q | Can I leave the sensor attached to wet briefs indefinitely? |
A | Please do NOT leave the sensor attached to wet briefs as this can cause the battery to discharge as the sensor will re-transmit periodically. Promptly remove the sensor from wet briefs, clean and dry the sensor, and re-attach to clean, dry briefs. |
Q | How soon can I start using the sensor after it has been soiled? |
A | Cleaning and drying the sensor and cap, as recommended above in 21, should take less than one minute. Putting on fresh dry briefs also takes little time. As soon as the sensor has been dried, the sensor is immediately available for use again with the patient. |
Q | I have two children, both of whom could use DryBuddyFLEX system. Can I use two DryBuddyFLEX systems simultaneously and monitor both of my children while identifying each child? |
A | Yes. If there is more than one child or patient in the same home, all of whom you wish to monitor or treat using DryBuddyFLEX simultaneously (at the same time), you can order two or more Complete DryBuddyFLEX Systems which allow you to differentiate between and identify your patients. There are no special extra costs. There is also no practical upper limit to the number of complete DryBuddyFLEX Systems that can be used in the same home simultaneously. |
Q | What is the essential warranty and returns policy for DryBuddyFLEX? |
A |
Essentially, all parts of the complete DryBuddyFLEX system are warranted against defective materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase, barring abuse or improper use and care of the product(s). Items purchased individually (not as the complete DryBuddy system) carry a ninety days warranty. The DryBuddy wetness sensing wired briefs have a limited warranty of six months. Any breach or breaking of the case or its seal voids the warranty of the SENSOR. The warranty does not cover damage to any of the products. Warranties do not apply to expendable items such as batteries. The warranty is only provided to the original purchaser of the DryBuddyFLEX system, or the party to whom the DryBuddyFLEX is originally shipped at the time of ordering. All DryBuddyFLEX items that are genuinely defective and within warranty will be exchanged for similar items, which could be new or repaired. Replacement sensors will only be new. For warranty repairs/replacement, Enuresis Solutions, LLC must be contacted and an RA # received. The defective item(s) must be sent to Enuresis Solutions at the user's expense with the RA # distinctly written in the address area of the package. The package must received by Enuresis Solutions without any damage. Products cannot be returned for refund unless they are absolutely new and unused and in salable condition, and the containing box has not been opened or damaged. Refunds must be requested within twenty days of the purchase date, and will not include any shipping related costs. If a product was shipped by Enuresis Solutions at no cost to the Buyer, this shipping cost will be deducted from any refund that may be due. There will be a restocking charge of 20% of the cost of the product(s) being returned. Without receiving a valid RA # from Enuresis Solutions, LLC, any returned items will be ignored or refused, with Enuresis Solutions, LLC incurring no liability whatsoever. The buyer is responsible for all costs associated with returning the product(s) to Enuresis Solutions in good condition. This is the essence of the warranty. Additional details for the warranty, warranty repairs, and refunds can be obtained by sending an email to Service@DryBuddy.com. General Note: When the sensor's magnets are attached to underwear that is wet with urine, or the sensor is attached to the wetness sensing briefs, the sensor will sends an ON signal to the transceiver(s), which switch the transceiver(s) and associated modules ON and provide power to the alarms. The alarms can be turned off at all locations by pressing the OFF button on the remote. Locally, at one transceiver only, the transceiver and corresponding alarm(s) can be switched OFF by pressing the POWER button on the transceiver. |
Q | Insurance Code for Enuresis Alarms |
A |
S8270 is a valid 2019 HCPCS code for Enuresis alarm, using auditory buzzer and/or vibration device or just “Enuresis alarm” for short. This is used for Medicare, Medicaid, and several other third-party payers. S8270 has been in effect since 07/01/2005. It is often used as a CPT code for general medical insurance. Please verify this with your insurer. |
Q | General Note for the DryBuddyFLEX |
A |
When the sensor's magnets are attached to underwear that is wet with urine, the sensor will sends an ON signal to the transceiver(s), which switches the transceiver(s) and associated modules ON and provide power to the alarms. The alarms can be turned off at all locations by pressing the OFF button on the remote. Locally, at one transceiver only, the transceiver and corresponding alarm(s) can be switched OFF by pressing the POWER button on the transceiver. Please remember that all DryBuddy systems are designed to work with urine, and not plain water. When testing the sensor, please immerse the sensor's two magnets into salt water, and not plain or tap water. |