August Lock Beeping Twice Hourly: Troubleshooting Guide... | digitalhomefaults.org

Technical Background:

August Lock relies on a secure wireless connection (Wi-Fi or Z-Wave/Zigbee via bridge) to the August cloud for full functionality. Hourly beeping typically indicates a system alert, often related to power or connectivity. Cold temperatures common in Canadian winters increase battery impedance, reducing effective voltage. Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) at 2.4GHz from nearby devices (Bell Giga Hub routers, microwave ovens) can disrupt communication.

Symptoms:

Two audible beeps emitted from the August Lock every hour. Observe associated LED indicator patterns (e.g., flashing red, solid amber). Check August app event log for corresponding low battery or connectivity error messages.

Possible Causes:

Low battery voltage, exacerbated by cold Canadian temperatures (-20°C to -40°C). Battery impedance increases significantly at low temperatures.
Weak Wi-Fi signal strength (RSSI below -70 dBm). Check Wi-Fi signal using a Wi-Fi analyzer app on a smartphone near the lock.
Intermittent wireless connectivity issues due to interference from other 2.4 GHz devices. Channel congestion on Bell or Rogers routers can be a factor.
Mechanical binding of the door and strike plate due to seasonal door frame warping. Increased friction requires more motor power, draining the battery faster.
Corrupted firmware or settings within the August Lock's internal memory.
Tampering or physical damage to the lock.

Solution:

1

Replace batteries with new, high-quality lithium batteries (Energizer Lithium recommended for cold weather). Verify correct polarity during installation.
2

Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app to measure the RSSI near the August Lock. Ensure RSSI is above -60 dBm. Consider relocating the Wi-Fi router or adding a Wi-Fi extender.
3

If using Z-Wave, check the Z-Wave hub's signal strength to the lock.
4

Inspect the door and strike plate for proper alignment. Lubricate the bolt and strike plate with graphite lubricant if necessary.
5

Perform a factory reset of the August Lock (refer to August's documentation for the correct procedure). Re-pair the lock with the August app.
6

Check the August app for firmware updates and install any available updates.
7

If the problem persists, contact August support for warranty assistance.

Safety Warning:

Ensure the August lock is properly installed and secured to prevent unauthorized access. Secure your August account with a strong password and enable two-factor authentication. Be aware that extreme cold can significantly reduce battery life and potentially lead to lock failure. Do NOT attempt to disassemble the August lock. Lithium batteries can be a fire hazard if mishandled.

Prevention:

- Replace batteries annually, preferably before the onset of winter. Mark the battery replacement date on the batteries themselves. - Regularly monitor battery levels in the August app. - Periodically check and update the August Lock's firmware via the app. - Inspect door frame alignment annually, adjusting strike plates as needed. - Consider assigning a static IP address to the August lock to improve network stability (check your Bell/Rogers router settings).

Expert Tip:

Perform a “three-tap reset” (quickly press and release the August button three times) to force the lock to re-establish its network connection. This can sometimes resolve intermittent connectivity issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of batteries should I use in my August Lock for Canadian winters?

Lithium batteries (e.g., Energizer Lithium) are recommended due to their superior performance in cold temperatures compared to alkaline batteries.

•How do I check the Wi-Fi signal strength near my August Lock?

Download a Wi-Fi analyzer app (available for iOS and Android) and walk near the August Lock. The app will display the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) in dBm. Aim for a signal strength above -60 dBm.

•What should I do if my door frame is warped and causing the lock to bind?

Inspect the door frame and strike plate. Use shims to adjust the strike plate position. Lubricate the bolt with graphite lubricant. If the warping is severe, consult a professional door installer.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of batteries should I use in my August Lock for Canadian winters?

•How do I check the Wi-Fi signal strength near my August Lock?

•What should I do if my door frame is warped and causing the lock to bind?

Related Questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: