Frustrated with Your August Smart Lock Installation? Let's Get It Sorted.
Installing a new smart lock should be an exciting step towards a more convenient and secure home. However, running into installation problems can be incredibly frustrating. Whether your August Smart Lock isn't powering on, won't calibrate, or the app can't seem to find it, we're here to help. This guide, written in clear British English, will walk you through the most common August installation issues and provide practical, step-by-step solutions.
## Pre-Installation Checks: Setting Yourself Up for Success
Before you even open the box, a few checks can prevent the most common installation headaches. A successful installation depends heavily on your existing door hardware and alignment.
1. Check Your Door's Alignment:
- Your door must open and close smoothly.
- The deadbolt should lock and unlock without you needing to push, pull, or lift the door. If you have to manipulate the door to get the bolt to move, the August motor will struggle and likely fail.
- To test: With the door open, turn the thumbturn on your existing deadbolt. It should be smooth. Now, close the door and do it again. If it's suddenly stiff or catches, your door alignment is the problem.
2. Verify Deadbolt Compatibility:
- August Smart Locks are designed to work with standard single-cylinder deadbolts.
- They are not compatible with:
- Mortise locks (common in older properties).
- Integrated lock and handle sets where the deadbolt and handle are combined.
- Rim cylinder deadbolts.
## Common Installation Problems and How to Fix Them
If you've started the installation and hit a wall, find your issue below to get back on track.
### Problem: The Lock Won't Power On or Show Any Lights
After inserting the batteries, you should see a light or hear a sound. If your lock seems completely dead, try the following:
- Check Battery Orientation: It sounds simple, but it's a common mistake. Double-check that all four CR123 batteries are inserted in the correct direction as indicated inside the battery compartment.
- Use Fresh Batteries: Do not use old batteries or mix old and new ones. Use the brand-new batteries that came with your lock.
- Clean the Contacts: Ensure the battery contacts in the lock are clean and free from any dust or debris.
### Problem: The August App Cannot Find the Lock
During the setup process, the app needs to connect to your lock via Bluetooth. If it can't establish this connection, you won't be able to proceed.
- Enable Bluetooth: Ensure Bluetooth is turned on in your smartphone's settings.
- Stay Close: Stand within 5-10 feet of the smart lock during the entire setup process.
- Power Cycle Your Phone and Lock:
- Turn your phone's Bluetooth off and on again.
- If that doesn't work, restart your smartphone completely.
- As a final step, remove the batteries from the August lock for 30 seconds and then put them back in. This will reset its Bluetooth signal.
### Problem: The Lock's Calibration Fails
Calibration is a crucial step where the lock learns the locked and unlocked positions of your deadbolt. If it fails, the lock won't operate correctly.
- Ensure Smooth Operation: As mentioned in the pre-installation checks, the deadbolt must move smoothly without any friction. If the bolt hole in the door frame is misaligned, the August motor will detect the resistance and fail the calibration to prevent damage.
- Check the Adapter: August provides several coloured adapters to fit different deadbolt brands. Make sure you have selected the correct adapter for your deadbolt's tailpiece. It should be a snug fit.
- Manual Latching: During the calibration steps in the app, you will be asked to manually lock and unlock the door. Do this slowly and deliberately using the exterior thumbturn to ensure the lock correctly registers the start and end points.
### Problem: DoorSense™ Installation Issues
DoorSense is the magnetic sensor that tells you if your door is physically open or closed.
- Correct Placement: The DoorSense magnet must be installed correctly for it to work. It should be placed on the door frame, within 1.5 inches of the edge of the door, and aligned with the centre of your August Smart Lock when the door is closed.
- Surface vs. Flush Mount: For best results, use the surface mount option first. The flush mount requires drilling into your door frame and should only be used if the surface mount is not feasible.
- Recalibrate in the App: If you've moved the sensor, you must recalibrate it within the August app's lock settings. Go to "Lock Settings" > select your lock > "Calibrate Lock and DoorSense".
By carefully working through these steps, you can overcome the most common installation hurdles and get your August Smart Lock working perfectly. Remember to take your time and ensure each step is completed correctly before moving on to the next.