August Lock: Flashing Green and Red Light -... | digitalhomefaults.org

Technical Background:

The August Lock relies on a secure wireless connection (typically Bluetooth or Wi-Fi) to the August servers for remote control and status updates. The flashing green and red sequence usually indicates a problem during the handshake process, either with the local network or the lock's internal components. Impedance fluctuations in the battery due to low temperatures (-20°C to -40°C) can disrupt consistent power delivery. Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) on the 2.4GHz band from overlapping Wi-Fi networks or cordless phones can also cause communication failures.

Symptoms:

Continuous alternating green and red LED flashing observed on the August Lock. App reports intermittent connectivity issues or unresponsive lock/unlock commands. Event logs show multiple failed attempts to communicate with the lock server.

Possible Causes:

Low Battery Voltage: Insufficient power to maintain a stable wireless connection, especially in cold Canadian winters.
Wireless Interference: Disruption of the Bluetooth or Wi-Fi signal due to other electronic devices or structural impediments (e.g., concrete walls).
Door Alignment Issues: Mechanical binding in the door frame, causing excessive friction and preventing the lock from fully engaging/disengaging.
Firmware Glitch: Software bug causing communication errors or incorrect status reporting.
Network Connectivity Issues: Problems with the home Wi-Fi network, including router outages or weak signal strength.
C-wire power instability (if C-wire is connected): Voltage drops under load causing intermittent operation.

Solution:

1

Replace the batteries with fresh, high-quality lithium batteries, ensuring proper polarity. Observe voltage before and after insertion using a multimeter. (Minimum 1.5V per battery under load).
2

Verify the Wi-Fi signal strength at the lock's location using a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone (RSSI should be above -70 dBm for reliable operation). Consider relocating the Wi-Fi router or adding a Wi-Fi extender to improve coverage.
3

Check door alignment and ensure the strike plate is properly aligned with the lock bolt. Lubricate the bolt and strike plate with silicone-based lubricant if necessary.
4

Force a firmware update via the August app, even if the app indicates the lock is up-to-date. This can resolve software glitches.
5

Cycle power to your home Wi-Fi router by unplugging it for 60 seconds and then plugging it back in. Ensure the router's firmware is also up-to-date.
6

Check C-wire voltage with a multimeter at the August lock. Voltage fluctuations may indicate problems with the thermostat wiring in the house.
7

If using a Bell Giga Hub, check the 2.4GHz channel selection. Overlapping channels with neighbours cause interference. Use a WiFi analyzer to determine best channel and manually configure it.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power before working on any electrical components. Do not attempt to disassemble the August Lock beyond battery replacement. Lithium batteries can pose a fire hazard if mishandled. Ensure secure password management for your August account and enable two-factor authentication to prevent unauthorized access. Be aware of physical tampering; inspect the lock regularly for signs of forced entry.

Prevention:

- Replace batteries annually, preferably before the onset of winter. Monitor battery health through the August app. - Regularly check for firmware updates and install them promptly. - Periodically inspect the door alignment and lubricate moving parts. - Consider using a dedicated Wi-Fi network for smart home devices to minimize interference. - If your ISP allows, assign a static IP address to the August Connect module or the lock itself to prevent IP address conflicts.

Expert Tip:

Perform a 'three-tap reset' on the August lock by quickly pressing the August button three times in succession. This forces a re-initialization of the Bluetooth module and can often resolve connectivity issues. The August Connect module can be manually reset by holding down the reset button for 15 seconds.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of batteries are recommended for the August Lock in cold weather?

Lithium batteries are highly recommended for optimal performance in Canadian winters due to their superior cold-weather performance and longer lifespan compared to alkaline batteries.

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

Download a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone (e.g., Wi-Fi Analyzer, NetSpot). Walk to the location of the August Lock and check the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator). A value above -70 dBm is generally considered good for reliable operation.

•What are the risks of using generic batteries in my August Lock?

Generic batteries may have lower voltage and shorter lifespans, especially in cold weather. This can lead to unreliable operation, frequent battery replacements, and potential damage to the lock's internal components. Use only reputable brand lithium batteries.

August Lock: Flashing Green and Red Light - Troubleshooting Guide

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of batteries are recommended for the August Lock in cold weather?

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

•What are the risks of using generic batteries in my August Lock?

Related Questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: