August Lock: Diagnosing Flashing Green Light and... | digitalhomefaults.org

Technical Background:

The August lock system relies on a Zigbee or Z-Wave wireless protocol to communicate with the Connect bridge or directly to a compatible hub (e.g., Samsung SmartThings). Lock operation involves a motor drive circuit powered by internal batteries (typically CR123A). Signal strength (RSSI/dBm) is crucial for reliable operation, especially through concrete walls common in Canadian condos. Low temperatures significantly impact battery impedance and motor torque.

Symptoms:

The August lock exhibits a rapidly flashing green LED indicator, accompanied by an audible clicking sound emanating from the internal motor assembly. This behaviour may occur during attempted lock/unlock operations or spontaneously. App-side error logs may indicate 'Motor Stall' or 'Communication Error'.

Possible Causes:

Depleted battery voltage insufficient to drive the motor, particularly exacerbated by cold Canadian winters (-20°C to -40°C).
RF interference on the 2.4GHz band (Wi-Fi) or 900MHz (older Z-Wave) causing intermittent communication failures.
Mechanical binding within the lock mechanism, often due to door frame warping from seasonal temperature changes.
Misalignment between the lock bolt and the strike plate, causing excessive resistance during operation. Weiser and Schlage strike plates have slightly different dimensions.
Corrupted firmware or software glitches within the lock's microcontroller.
Internal motor drive circuit failure.

Solution:

1

Replace batteries with fresh, high-quality lithium CR123A batteries. Ensure correct polarity.
2

Verify Wi-Fi signal strength near the lock using a Wi-Fi analyzer app (e.g., NetSpot). RSSI should be above -70dBm. Bell Giga Hub users should optimize channel selection.
3

Inspect door frame and strike plate alignment. Adjust strike plate position as needed to minimize friction. Use a file to smooth rough edges.
4

Perform a lock calibration via the August app. Follow on-screen instructions carefully.
5

Check for firmware updates within the August app. Apply any available updates to resolve potential software bugs.
6

If the problem persists, perform a factory reset (refer to August documentation for the reset procedure). This will require re-pairing the lock.
7

As a final resort, contact August support for warranty assistance or hardware replacement.

Safety Warning:

Never attempt to disassemble the lock mechanism beyond battery replacement. Improper handling can damage the lock and void the warranty. Data privacy is paramount; ensure two-factor authentication (2FA) is enabled on your August account to prevent unauthorized access. Protect the physical security of the lock from tampering.

Prevention:

- Monitor battery levels regularly within the August app, especially before the onset of winter. - Schedule periodic firmware updates (OTA) to maintain optimal performance and security. - Ensure a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection. Consider assigning a static IP address to the Connect bridge or hub. - Lubricate the lock bolt and strike plate with a silicone-based lubricant annually to prevent mechanical binding. - Check door frame alignment annually, making adjustments as needed to account for seasonal shifts.

Expert Tip:

If the lock is unresponsive, try the “three-tap reset sequence” by rapidly tapping the August logo three times. This may force a recalibration or clear temporary glitches. Note that Bell Giga Hubs have advanced Wi-Fi settings that can interfere with Zigbee; consider separating 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of batteries does the August Lock use?

The August Lock typically uses CR123A lithium batteries.

•How do I check the battery level of my August Lock?

You can check the battery level within the August app under the lock settings.

•How do I realign my August Lock strike plate?

Loosen the strike plate screws, adjust the plate until the bolt smoothly enters the hole, and retighten the screws.

August Lock: Diagnosing Flashing Green Light and Clicking Sound

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of batteries does the August Lock use?

•How do I check the battery level of my August Lock?

•How do I realign my August Lock strike plate?

Related Questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: