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August•August Bolt

Analysis by Lukas & Team

August Bolt: Tight Bolt Fix for Canadian Homes

Troubleshoot an August Bolt smart lock with a tight bolt in Canada. Fixes for cold weather warping, battery drain, & RF interference.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I check my Wi-Fi signal strength?

You can use a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone or tablet. These apps display the signal strength (RSSI) in dBm. A stronger signal is closer to 0 dBm, while a weaker signal is further away (e.g., -70 dBm or lower).

•What type of lubricant should I use on the bolt?

Use a dry lubricant such as graphite powder or Teflon-based lubricant. Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dust and debris.

•How do I re-calibrate my August Bolt?

Open the August app and navigate to the lock settings. Look for an option to re-calibrate the lock or run a setup wizard. Follow the on-screen instructions.

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About Lukas & Team

Lukas leads the technical research department at Digital Home Faults. Together with a team of systems analysts, he specializes in translating complex manufacturer error codes into actionable diagnostic steps for the Canadian market.

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Safety Warning:

Do not attempt to disassemble the August Bolt beyond what is described in the manufacturer's instructions. Incorrect assembly can damage the lock and compromise security. Ensure the batteries are installed correctly and dispose of used batteries properly according to local regulations. Be mindful of data privacy. Review the August privacy policy regarding data collection and usage. Secure your August account with a strong password and enable two-factor authentication.

Step-by-Step Fix:

1

Inspect the door frame and strike plate for signs of warping or misalignment. Adjust the strike plate position if necessary. Use shims if needed.
2

Clean the bolt mechanism and strike plate with a dry lubricant (e.g., graphite powder). Avoid using oil-based lubricants, as they can attract dust and debris.
3

Replace the batteries with fresh, high-quality lithium batteries. Verify battery voltage under load.
4

Check the Wi-Fi signal strength (RSSI) near the August Bolt. Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone. If the signal is weak (below -70dBm), consider relocating your router or adding a Wi-Fi extender.
5

Re-calibrate the August Bolt following the manufacturer's instructions in the app. This may help to compensate for minor misalignments.
6

If the problem persists, consider replacing the strike plate with a new one that is compatible with the August Bolt.
7

Contact August support or a qualified locksmith for further assistance.

Possible Causes:

Door frame warping due to seasonal temperature changes (Canadian winters).
Misalignment between the August Bolt and the strike plate.
Build-up of debris or corrosion within the bolt mechanism.
Weak battery affecting motor drive strength, especially in cold weather (-20°C to -40°C).
RF interference from other 2.4GHz devices (Wi-Fi routers, cordless phones) degrading the signal strength.
Mechanical wear on the strike plate or bolt resulting in binding.

Expert Tip:

Use a business card or thin shim to test for binding between the strike plate and bolt. If the card gets stuck, this indicates a tight spot needing adjustment or lubrication. Check for physical obstructions within the bolt housing. Ensure proper seating depth is achieved during install. Also, Bell Giga Hubs sometimes create interference on the 2.4 GHz channel - try changing your channel within the hub settings.

Observed Symptoms:

Difficulty extending or retracting the August Bolt. Audible grinding or resistance during operation. Possible error logs within the August app indicating mechanical failure or obstruction. Increased battery drain due to motor struggling. Visual inspection shows misalignment of bolt and strike plate.

Technical Overview:

The August Bolt relies on a motorized drive circuit to extend and retract the bolt. The system incorporates mechanical linkages that translate rotational motor energy into linear bolt movement. Friction within these linkages or between the bolt and strike plate will increase the load on the motor, potentially leading to premature failure. RF interference on the 2.4GHz band may impact the lock's ability to receive commands to extend or retract the bolt. Cold temperatures can affect battery impedance.

Prevention:

Regularly inspect the door frame and strike plate for signs of warping or misalignment, especially during seasonal changes.
Lubricate the bolt mechanism and strike plate annually.
Replace batteries proactively before winter to ensure optimal performance in cold weather.
Keep the firmware of the August Bolt updated to the latest version.