August Lock: Motor Making Dying Sound - Troubleshooting... | digitalhomefaults.org

Technical Background:

The August Lock uses a DC motor to actuate the deadbolt. This motor is controlled by a microcontroller that monitors current draw and position feedback. The system relies on Zigbee or Z-Wave for wireless communication, and correct calibration of the locking mechanism. Increased friction due to door misalignment or cold weather can significantly increase the load on the motor, leading to failure. Power is supplied either by AA batteries, or a C-wire connected to mains power.

Symptoms:

The August Lock emits a strained, grinding, or unusually loud noise during operation. This may be accompanied by slow or incomplete locking/unlocking actions. Check the August app for error messages such as "Motor Stall" or "Low Battery". Observe the LED indicator for flashing red patterns indicating a motor drive fault.

Possible Causes:

Low battery voltage, particularly in cold Canadian winters (-20°C to -40°C), causing insufficient torque.
Mechanical binding due to warped door frame or misaligned strike plate, common with seasonal temperature changes.
Debris or obstructions in the deadbolt mechanism increasing friction.
Motor drive circuit failure within the August Lock (capacitor degradation, MOSFET failure).
RF interference (900MHz/2.4GHz) causing command delays or errors leading to motor over-exertion.
Inadequate C-wire voltage (if applicable) causing voltage drops during motor operation.

Solution:

1

Replace batteries with fresh, high-quality alkaline or lithium AA batteries. Ensure correct polarity.
2

Inspect the door frame and strike plate for misalignment. Adjust the strike plate position or shim the door frame as needed. Lubricate the deadbolt with silicone-based lubricant.
3

Use a multimeter to verify C-wire voltage (if applicable). It should be between 24-28VAC. If voltage is low, check the transformer and wiring.
4

Check for RF interference using a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone. Identify and mitigate sources of interference (e.g., cordless phones, microwave ovens). Consider changing the August Lock's Zigbee/Z-Wave channel.
5

Force a recalibration of the August Lock through the app. This will reset the motor's position sensors.
6

Inspect the internal mechanism of the August Lock for visible damage or debris. CAUTION: Disassembly may void the warranty. Contact August support if damage is found.
7

As a last resort, perform a factory reset of the August Lock and re-pair it with your smartphone. Note: Ensure physical access to the property during this step.

Safety Warning:

Do not attempt to disassemble the August Lock beyond the battery compartment. Lithium batteries pose a fire hazard if mishandled. Ensure proper disposal of used batteries. Protect your August account with a strong password and enable two-factor authentication. Report any suspected tampering to local authorities.

Prevention:

- Replace batteries annually, preferably before the onset of winter. Consider lithium batteries for enhanced cold-weather performance. - Periodically check for door frame misalignment and adjust the strike plate as needed. - Keep the deadbolt mechanism clean and lubricated. - Monitor battery voltage regularly through the August app. Replace batteries when the voltage drops below 1.3V per cell. - Perform firmware updates promptly when prompted by the August app. These updates often include motor control improvements.

Expert Tip:

If using a Bell Giga Hub, check the advanced Wi-Fi settings for channel congestion. Manually selecting a less congested channel (1, 6, or 11 for 2.4GHz) can improve communication reliability with the August Lock. Also, confirm that the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi is enabled if you are not using Z-Wave.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of batteries are recommended for cold Canadian winters?

Lithium AA batteries are highly recommended for their superior performance in low temperatures (-20°C to -40°C).

•How do I check for RF interference affecting my August Lock?

Download a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your smartphone. Scan for nearby Wi-Fi networks and identify channels with high utilization. Change your router's channel to a less congested one.

•What are the voltage specifications for a C-wire connection?

The C-wire voltage should be between 24-28VAC. Use a multimeter to verify the voltage at the C-wire terminal on the August Lock.

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of batteries are recommended for cold Canadian winters?

•How do I check for RF interference affecting my August Lock?

•What are the voltage specifications for a C-wire connection?

Related Questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: