August Lock: Troubleshooting Red and Blue Flashing LED -... | digitalhomefaults.org

Technical Background:

The August Lock employs a motor drive circuit controlled by a microcontroller. The red and blue LED flashing sequence typically indicates a fault during the motor calibration sequence or a Z-Wave/Wi-Fi communication failure. Battery voltage sag under load can also trigger this error. Firmware relies on secure OTA updates. Power consumption spikes during motor operation can reveal underlying hardware problems. Signal transmission relies on 900MHz (Canada frequency allocation) and 2.4GHz.

Symptoms:

Observed alternating Red and Blue LED flashing pattern on the August Lock faceplate. No user override via the August app. Possible error log entry within the app indicating a motor drive malfunction or connectivity issue. Sporadic lock/unlock behaviour reported by user.

Possible Causes:

Low battery voltage preventing proper motor operation, especially in cold weather (-20°C to -40°C common in Canadian winters). Battery impedance increases significantly at these temperatures.
Wireless interference on the 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi or 900MHz Z-Wave bands affecting communication with the August Connect or Bridge.
Mechanical binding within the lock mechanism due to door frame warping from temperature fluctuations (common in Canadian seasons).
Corrupted firmware or incomplete Over-The-Air (OTA) update.
Motor drive circuit failure or damaged motor.
Internal wiring harness discontinuity preventing proper power delivery to the motor.

Solution:

1

Replace batteries with fresh, high-quality lithium batteries. Ensure correct polarity. Test battery voltage under load (while attempting to lock/unlock) using a multimeter. Replace if voltage drops below 3.0V.
2

Check Wi-Fi signal strength (RSSI) near the lock using a Wi-Fi analyzer app on a smartphone. Ensure RSSI is above -70 dBm. Relocate the August Connect or Bridge closer to the lock, or consider a Wi-Fi extender.
3

Inspect the door frame and strike plate for signs of binding or misalignment. Adjust the strike plate position if necessary. Lubricate the lock mechanism with a silicone-based lubricant.
4

Force a firmware update via the August app. If the update fails repeatedly, attempt a factory reset (consult August support documentation).
5

If the problem persists, disconnect the lock from the door and manually actuate the lock mechanism. If the motor still fails or displays the same LED pattern, the motor drive circuit may be faulty, and a professional repair or replacement is required.
6

Inspect internal wiring harness for frayed or damaged wires.
7

If using a Bell Giga Hub or Rogers Ignite modem, ensure that the Z-Wave radio is enabled (if applicable) and not experiencing interference from other devices operating on the 900 MHz band.

Safety Warning:

Never work on electrical circuits without proper training and safety precautions. Always disconnect power before disassembling the lock. Improper installation or repair can damage the lock, compromise security, and create a fire hazard. Lithium batteries can pose a fire risk if mishandled.

Prevention:

- Replace batteries annually, preferably before the onset of winter. Use lithium batteries for optimal performance in cold weather. - Regularly check the August app for firmware updates and install them promptly. - Periodically inspect the door frame and strike plate for alignment issues and lubricate the lock mechanism. - Monitor Wi-Fi signal strength near the lock and ensure a stable connection. - Assign a static IP address to the August Connect/Bridge on your router to prevent connectivity issues.

Expert Tip:

Attempt a three-tap reset sequence (quickly tapping the August logo three times) to initiate a manual motor calibration. This can sometimes resolve intermittent motor drive errors without a full factory reset. Check the physical rotation of the lock manually for impediments.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Lithium batteries are highly recommended for August locks, especially in Canadian winters, due to their superior performance at low temperatures. Avoid alkaline batteries as they have reduced capacity in cold conditions.

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

You can use a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone. Several free apps are available for both Android and iOS. These apps display the RSSI (Received Signal Strength Indicator) in dBm. Aim for a signal strength above -70 dBm for reliable performance.

•What should I do if I suspect mechanical binding is causing the issue?

Carefully inspect the door frame and strike plate for signs of misalignment or friction. Lubricate the bolt and strike plate with a silicone-based lubricant. If the door frame is warped, you may need to adjust the strike plate position or consult a professional carpenter.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

•What should I do if I suspect mechanical binding is causing the issue?

Related Questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: