Identifying and Dealing with August Smart Lock Weather Damage
Your August smart lock provides incredible convenience and security, but like any electronic device, it has its limits when it comes to the elements. Extreme temperatures and moisture can negatively impact your lock's performance and even cause permanent damage. This guide will help you identify potential weather damage and walk you through the steps to take if your lock starts malfunctioning.
Understanding August Lock's Weather Resistance
It's crucial to understand that most August smart lock models are installed on the interior of your door. This means the core electronic and motorised components are protected from direct rain, snow, and sun. However, they are still subject to ambient temperature changes and humidity that affect the door itself. The exterior component (keypad or keyed cylinder) is more exposed.
- Water Resistance: The locks are water-resistant, not waterproof. They can handle humidity and indirect moisture, but direct, driving rain could lead to water ingress and damage to the sensitive electronics.
- Temperature Range: August locks are designed to operate within a specific temperature range. Extreme cold can significantly impact battery life, while extreme heat can affect electronic performance.
Common Symptoms of Weather-Related Issues
If your lock begins to act up after a period of extreme weather, look for these common signs.
### Issue 1: The Lock is Unresponsive or Sluggish in the Cold
This is the most common weather-related problem.
- Symptom: You try to operate the lock via the app or keypad, and it's slow to respond, makes a weak grinding noise, or doesn't move at all. The app may show the lock as offline.
- Cause: Cold temperatures dramatically reduce the efficiency of alkaline batteries. The batteries may not have enough power to turn the motor, especially if the deadbolt is slightly stiff.
- Solution:
- Replace the Batteries: This should always be your first step. Replace the existing batteries with a brand new set of high-quality, recommended batteries. Lithium batteries often perform better in cold weather than standard alkaline ones.
- Check Bolt Movement: In cold weather, your door and doorframe can contract, causing the deadbolt to be tight. Test that the deadbolt moves freely when you turn it manually with the thumb-turn. If it's stiff, the lock's motor may be struggling against the friction.
### Issue 2: Suspected Water Damage After Heavy Rain
- Symptom: The lock is completely dead, behaves erratically, or you notice physical signs of moisture.
- Cause: Water has found its way inside the interior unit, potentially causing a short circuit.
- Solution:
- Act Immediately: As soon as you suspect water damage, remove the lock's faceplate and take out the batteries. This can prevent further damage.
- Inspect for Corrosion: Look at the battery contacts and the compartment for any signs of rust or green/white residue. This is a clear sign of moisture damage.
- Dry the Unit: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away any visible moisture. Leave the battery compartment open and allow the unit to air dry in a warm, dry place for at least 24 to 48 hours. Do not use a hairdryer, as excessive heat can cause more damage.
- Test with New Batteries: After the drying period, insert new batteries and test the lock's functionality. If it works, you may have caught it in time. If it remains dead or erratic, the internal components have likely been permanently damaged.
How to Prevent Future Weather Damage
- Ensure a Good Seal: Make sure your door has proper weather stripping to prevent rain from being driven into the seams around the door.
- Provide an Overhang: If your door is very exposed, a small porch roof, awning, or even a storm door can provide significant protection from direct rain and sun.
- Use Lithium Batteries in Winter: If you live in a climate with cold winters, switch to lithium batteries during the colder months for better performance.
If your lock is permanently damaged due to weather, you will likely need to contact August support for potential warranty claims or purchase a replacement.