Your Yale Smart Lock Got Wet? Here's What to Do Next
Yale smart locks are built to be durable and weather-resistant, providing reliable security in everyday conditions. However, exposure to a significant amount of water—from a severe storm, a misplaced hose, or a pressure washer—can pose a serious threat to their electronic components. Water and electronics don't mix, and quick action is essential to prevent permanent damage.
If your Yale lock has been exposed to water, don't panic. This guide will walk you through the immediate steps you should take to assess the situation and mitigate potential damage.
### Step 1: Immediate Action - Disconnect Power
Your first priority is to prevent a short circuit, which can cause irreversible damage.
- Dry the Exterior: Use a soft, absorbent cloth to thoroughly wipe down the entire exterior of the lock, including the keypad, thumb-turn, and around the keyhole.
- Remove the Batteries: As quickly as possible, remove the interior battery cover and take out all the batteries. This is the most critical step to protect the lock's internal circuitry.
- Inspect the Battery Compartment: Look for any signs of moisture inside the battery compartment. If you see any water, dry it out carefully with a cloth, paying close attention to the metal battery contacts.
IMPORTANT: Do not attempt to use the keypad or operate the lock electronically while it is wet.
Step 2: Drying and Assessment
Once the power source is removed, you need to give the lock a chance to dry out completely.
### How to Dry Your Lock
- Air Dry: The safest method is to simply let it air dry. Leave the battery cover off to promote air circulation. Place a fan nearby to gently blow air over the lock, which can speed up the process.
- Use Compressed Air: A can of compressed air can be used to gently blow water out of tight spaces like the keyhole or around the edges of the keypad. Hold the can upright and use short bursts.
- Avoid Direct Heat: Do not use a hairdryer, heat gun, or any other direct heat source to dry the lock. Excessive heat can warp plastic components and damage the sensitive electronics inside.
Allow the lock to dry for a minimum of 24 to 48 hours in a dry, well-ventilated area before proceeding.
Step 3: Testing and Final Checks
After you are confident the lock is completely dry, you can test it.
- Install Fresh Batteries: Do not use the old batteries, as they may have been damaged. Insert a brand new set of high-quality alkaline batteries.
- Test Electronic Functions: Attempt to lock and unlock the door using the keypad and the interior thumb-turn. Listen for normal operational sounds.
- Check for Erratic Behaviour: Watch for any flickering of the keypad lights, unresponsive buttons, or incomplete locking/unlocking cycles. These are signs that the circuitry may have been damaged.
If the lock operates normally, you have likely prevented any long-term damage. However, if it behaves erratically or does not function at all, the internal components have likely been compromised, and you should contact Yale support for further assistance.