Troubleshooting Your August Smart Lock Installation
Installing an August Smart Lock is a great way to upgrade your home's security and convenience. The process is usually quick, but if you're facing challenges, it can be frustrating. This guide is designed to help you resolve the most common issues that can make an August lock installation difficult, from physical fitting problems to software calibration errors.
We'll provide clear, step-by-step instructions to help you get your lock working smoothly. Our aim is to turn a difficult installation into a successful one, so you can start enjoying keyless entry.
### Pre-Installation: Check Your Compatibility
Before you even pick up a screwdriver, ensuring your existing deadbolt is compatible is the most important step. August locks fit over most, but not all, single-cylinder deadbolts.
- Check the Compatibility List: Visit the August website and check their official compatibility list. This is the most reliable way to know if your lock is supported.
- Smooth Operation: Your existing deadbolt must operate smoothly. If you need to push or pull the door to get the key to turn, the August motor will struggle and likely fail. Fix any door alignment issues before you install the August lock.
- Single-Cylinder Only: August locks are not compatible with mortice locks, integrated lock and handle systems, or double-cylinder deadbolts (where a key is used on both sides).
Common Installation Problems and How to Fix Them
If you've confirmed compatibility but are still running into trouble, let's work through the most likely culprits.
### 1. Physical and Mechanical Issues
These problems relate to the hardware itself and how it fits on your door.
- Incorrect Adapter: August provides several adapters to fit the tailpiece of different deadbolt brands. Using the wrong one is a common error. The adapter should fit snugly over the tailpiece. If it's too loose, the lock won't turn correctly. Refer to the installation manual to identify the right adapter for your lock brand (e.g., Schlage, Kwikset, Weiser).
- Mounting Plate Alignment: The mounting plate must be flush against your door. If the screws are too tight, it can warp the plate and cause the lock to bind. If they are too loose, the lock will be wobbly. Tighten the screws evenly until the plate is secure but not stressed.
- Stiff or Jamming Operation: After installation, if the thumb-turn on the August lock feels stiff, it's almost always an alignment problem. Loosen the mounting plate screws slightly, manually operate the lock a few times to let it settle into a natural position, and then re-tighten the screws.
### 2. App Setup and Calibration Errors
Once the lock is physically installed, you need to set it up in the August app.
- Failed Calibration: Calibration teaches the lock the start and end points of its rotation. If it fails, first check for any of the physical issues mentioned above. Ensure you're using fresh, high-quality batteries. Then, stand next to the lock with the door closed and re-initiate the calibration process in the lock's settings within the app. Follow the on-screen instructions precisely.
- DoorSense™ Not Working: The DoorSense™ feature tells you if your door is open or closed. For it to work, the small DoorSense unit must be installed correctly.
- Proximity: It must be within 1.5 inches of the August Smart Lock when the door is closed.
- Calibration: You must calibrate DoorSense in the app after it's installed. Go to Lock Settings > DoorSense™ Calibration. This process teaches the lock the position of the sensor when the door is closed.
### 3. Connectivity Problems
If your lock is installed and calibrated but you can't control it remotely, the issue is likely with the August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge.
- Placement is Key: The Connect bridge must be plugged into a power socket within 15-30 feet of your August Smart Lock. It needs to be within Bluetooth range of the lock.
- Wi-Fi Signal: The Connect also needs a good 2.4GHz Wi-Fi signal from your router. Don't plug it in behind a sofa or in a cabinet.
- Setup Process: During setup in the app, the Connect will first pair with your lock via Bluetooth and then you will provide your Wi-Fi credentials. If it fails, try moving the Connect to a socket closer to the lock or closer to your router. A factory reset of the Connect (press and hold the button for 5 seconds) may also be necessary.
By addressing these mechanical, software, and connectivity issues one by one, you can overcome even the most difficult August Smart Lock installation.