August Lock: Fixing Door Ajar Smart Alerts - Smart Home | digitalhomefaults.org

Technical Background:

The August lock uses a combination of internal sensors (accelerometer, gyroscope) and external door sense (if installed) to determine door state. Data is transmitted via Wi-Fi (2.4 GHz) to the August cloud for processing and alert generation. Failure points include sensor malfunction, Wi-Fi connectivity issues, cloud service downtime, and incorrect door position calibration. The door sense uses a magnetic reed switch, which can be affected by environmental factors.

Symptoms:

The 'Door Ajar' smart alert feature in the August app is not functioning. The door may be ajar, but no notification is received. LED indicator on the lock shows normal operation (green light after locking/unlocking) despite the ajar condition. App logs do not record the 'Ajar' event.

Possible Causes:

Faulty or misaligned August DoorSense (if installed). Magnet too far from the sensor.
Wi-Fi interference (2.4 GHz band) affecting reliable communication with the August cloud. Common with Rogers Ignite and Bell Giga Hub default settings.
Incorrect door position calibration within the August app.
Low battery level impacting sensor accuracy or wireless transmission power. Reduced performance in Canadian winter temperatures (-20°C to -40°C).
Mechanical binding causing inaccurate door position detection. Warping of the door frame due to seasonal temperature changes.
Firmware bug preventing correct 'Door Ajar' alert triggering.

Solution:

1

Verify DoorSense alignment: Ensure the DoorSense magnet is correctly positioned and securely attached to the door frame, within 3mm of the sensor. Replace the adhesive if necessary.
2

Check Wi-Fi signal strength: Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone to measure RSSI near the August lock. Aim for RSSI values above -70 dBm. Consider a Wi-Fi extender if signal is weak. Bell Giga Hub users should consider channel optimization.
3

Re-calibrate Door Position: In the August app, re-run the door position calibration procedure. Ensure the door is fully closed during the calibration process.
4

Replace Batteries: Install new, high-quality lithium AA batteries. Cold temperatures significantly reduce battery life. Measure open circuit voltage before installation (should be above 1.5V per cell).
5

Inspect Door Frame: Visually inspect the door frame for any signs of warping or binding. Adjust the strike plate if necessary to ensure smooth door closure. Weiser/Schlage strike plates are particularly prone to misalignment in Canadian climates.
6

Check August Cloud Status: Confirm that the August cloud service is operational. Check the August website or social media for any reported outages.
7

Force Firmware Update: Even if the app reports the lock is up-to-date, manually initiate a firmware update if possible.

Safety Warning:

Never force the lock mechanism if the door is binding. This can damage the lock and create a security vulnerability. Do not attempt to disassemble the lock beyond battery replacement. Contact August support for repairs. Protect your Wi-Fi network with a strong password to prevent unauthorized access to your smart lock. Enable two-factor authentication on your August account.

Prevention:

- Replace batteries annually before the onset of winter. - Regularly check Wi-Fi signal strength and optimize router placement. - Periodically recalibrate door position, especially after significant temperature changes. - Monitor the August app for any error messages or unusual behaviour. - Ensure the August lock firmware is always up to date.

Expert Tip:

A three-tap reset on the August lock's faceplate can sometimes resolve intermittent sensor issues. Remove the faceplate, then quickly tap the August logo three times. The LED ring should flash yellow indicating a reset attempt.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Download a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone (e.g., WiFi Analyzer for Android, NetSpot for iOS/macOS). Walk near your August lock and check the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indication) value. Aim for -70 dBm or higher (less negative) for a stable connection. Interference from microwaves or Bluetooth devices can also affect signal quality.

•What type of batteries should I use in my August lock?

Use standard AA alkaline or lithium batteries. Lithium batteries are recommended for colder climates due to their superior performance in low temperatures. Avoid using rechargeable batteries, as they often have lower voltage and shorter lifespan.

•How do I re-calibrate the door position sensor?

Open the August app, go to Lock Settings, then select 'DoorSense'. Follow the on-screen instructions to re-calibrate the door position. Ensure the door is fully closed during the calibration process. If using an external door sense, verify its placement before starting the re-calibration.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

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

•What type of batteries should I use in my August lock?

•How do I re-calibrate the door position sensor?

Related Questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: