Clock change

Time change

Easily switch between summer and winter time with DCF clocks from the BRESSER Shop.

Time change for DCF radio-controlled clocks

Twice a year, the clocks change. In spring, the clocks are moved forward by one hour, while in autumn they are moved back by one hour. If you own a DCF radio-controlled clock, you normally don't have to do anything: If your clock reliably receives the DCF-77 time signal, it automatically adjusts to the new time.

But what can you do if your radio-controlled clock is still showing the old time the next morning? In this guide, you will learn how the automatic time change works and what simple steps you can take to help your DCF clock if you experience any problems.

How does the time change work on a DCF radio-controlled clock?

DCF radio-controlled clocks receive the so-called DCF-77 time signal. This signal is transmitted from a transmitter in Mainflingen near Frankfurt am Main and provides information including the current time and date.

This allows your DCF clock to automatically synchronise with the official time. This is particularly convenient when switching between summer and winter time: Instead of manually adjusting the hands or digital display, your radio-controlled clock normally makes the change automatically.

However, many radio-controlled clocks do not search for the signal continuously. To save energy, synchronisation often only takes place at certain times. This means that your clock may not adjust to the time change immediately.

What to do if your DCF radio-controlled clock does not adjust?

1. Wait up to 24 hours
Depending on the model, the radio-controlled clock only synchronises with the DCF signal at certain times. Therefore, wait up to 24 hours and then check the time again. 2. Improve the radio-controlled clock's reception
Poor DCF reception can prevent the time change. Try placing the clock in a different location, preferably near a window and away from computers, televisions, routers and other electronic devices. 3. Remove the batteries and restart the radio-controlled clock
If the clock has not adjusted after 24 hours, remove all batteries for about 10 minutes and then reinsert them. Your clock will restart and attempt to receive the DCF time signal again.

Take this opportunity to check the batteries as well. If they are already weak, you should replace them with new ones. 4. Give the clock time to synchronise
After restarting, the radio-controlled clock needs some time to receive the DCF signal. Leave it undisturbed in a suitable location until the correct time is displayed. 5. Contact BRESSER Service
Is your BRESSER DCF radio-controlled clock still showing the wrong time? Then please contact BRESSER Service. Together, we will find a suitable solution.