Extreme weather can quickly put a wrench in anybody’s plans, especially when it comes to cold, freezing temperatures and smart devices and electronics.
This is why properly researching how a smart lock works and what environmental conditions it is designed to work in is even more critical in areas that observe extreme colds during the winter.
Below I have listed the best smart locks designed to work in cold weather and will have no issue being used even in extreme colds.
Last update on 2023-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Smart Locks for Cold Weather
August Smart Lock WiFi (4th Gen)
The August Smart Lock Pro is one of the most popular smart locks on the market.
It has operating temperatures between 32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 40 degrees Celsius), making it a very good smart lock for cold climates.
The lock itself goes over your deadbolt on the interior part of the door.
This is useful in a few different ways.
- First, it does not advertise that you are using a smart lock in any way to the outside viewer.
- Secondly, the electronics and mechanical parts are not exposed to the freezing weather outside.
- And tertiary, you can still use your physical key.
The features it comes with are pretty standard and what we have come to expect.
It can be remotely locked and unlocked, but it can be set up to do it automatically.
This model also comes with the DoorSense™ Sensor, which works the same way many door and window sensors do. Thanks to this sensor, you can not only monitor the status of the door but also set it up in a way that will lock your door automatically only when it has been closed.
Owners can also receive real-time notifications, generate guest keys, and create alerts associated with the specific entry keys. There is also a detailed log history of when and by whom the lock has been used.
Overall the 4th gen August Smart Lock proves to be a very capable and well-built smart lock with excellent levels of integration and the ability to tolerate moderately cold weather.
Yale Assure Lock SL
Yale has built a very good reputation over the years.
One of their most popular smart locks is the Assure SL.
When it comes to cold weather, the Assure SL does not disappoint thanks to its outdoor operating temperatures between -22 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit (-30 to 60 degrees Celsius) and indoor operating temperatures between 5 and 158 degrees Fahrenheit (-15 to 70 degrees Celsius).
There are three different models that Yale offers: one with a touchscreen, one with a touchscreen with a keyhole, and one with a keypad with a keyhole.
As discussed later in this article, having the ability to unlock your door using a regular physical key is always a good call when dealing with freezing weather.
Yale locks offer a lot of versatility, too.
For example, the Assure SL has excellent integration capabilities and can be used not only with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit but also with Airbnb, SmartThings, and even Philips Hue.
It can be set to automatically lock and unlock your door, and thanks to the DoorSense™ compatibility, it can actually discern when your door is closed or left slightly ajar.
In addition, you can create guest keys and further customize and schedule guest access.
Naturally, you can also use the app to remotely lock and unlock the lock and check the access history log.
With Yale, you can also choose what connectivity module you want to use. There are Wi-Fi modules, Z-Wave, Zigbee, and Apple HomeKit modules.
This brings a lot of flexibility to the table, but they have to be purchased separately.
Overall this lock is a very solid choice and perfectly suitable for homes in four-season locations that may observe really low temperatures during the winter; it is a well-designed and reliable smart lock with almost unmatched levels of automation and versatility.
Eufy Smart Lock S230
Eufy smart locks have been gaining in popularity over the recent years, and the Eufy S230 is an excellent example of why this is the case.
With a waterproof rating of IP65, BHMA Grade 2 certification, and the ability to withstand temperatures between -22 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit (-30 to 70 degrees Celsius), this smart lock is designed to face the elements.
It can be operated in a few different ways
- By using the fingerprint scanner.
- By using the touchscreen and your entry code.
- By using a standard mechanical key.
- By using your phone.
This lock will use your wireless network to connect and work. The Wi-Fi module is already installed, so there is no need to buy additional modules or connectivity hubs.
In terms of integration, it meets the bare minimum but does not shine with anything extraordinary. It can integrate with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
This lock also has a built-in sensor to monitor if the door is fully closed before automatically locking it.
It also provides detailed locking and unlocking event logs.
Overall the Eufy S230 is a very well-priced smart lock that offers excellent smart home features and fares exceptionally well even in colder climates and bad weather.
Schlage Encode Smart WiFi Deadbolt
Schlage smart locks are used throughout the country by thousands of homeowners and hosts because of their reliability and capabilities.
The Schlage Encode works well in cold climates, with its operating temperatures between -31 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (-35 to 65 degrees Celsius).
That said, some owners have reported that the Schlage Encode is known to be a little unreliable at temperatures below -4°F (20°C).
The Schlage Encode is designed to be very tough and durable. This is why it has the highest possible BHMA grade possible in all three categories—security, durability, and finish.
This lock requires a wireless internet connection to work properly. That said, there is no need for any connectivity hubs as everything necessary is already built into it.
It offers all the features we have come to expect from a modern-day smart lock.
It can be operated and monitored remotely. Up to 100 different entry keys can be created and given to other people, and the owners have access to a detailed log history.
Also, you can still use your mechanical key as a backup to unlock the lock if necessary.
It is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant and can be used with the Schlage Home app, Amazon Key, and Ring home security systems.
Schlage is also known to have good customer service—the importance of which cannot be stressed enough.
Kwikset 910 SmartCode Z-Wave Plus Deadbolt
Kwikset is another brand of smart locks that many homeowners stand by; the Kwikset smart locks are known for excellent reliability and durability.
For example, the 910 is BHMA Grade 2 certified, and it is easily one of the leaders in terms of cold weather resistance.
The Kwikset 910 smart lock has operating temperatures between -40 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 to 65 degrees Celsius). The operating temperatures on the interior are 32 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (0 to 60 degrees Celsius).
This model comes with a backlit keypad and also allows you to use your mechanical keys when necessary. A downside here is that the keypad has 6 buttons with the numbers grouped together, which may not be the best option in terms of security.
You can add up to 30 different entry codes, and you can remotely lock and unlock the door. Naturally, you can access a detailed access history log, monitor the status of the lock, and receive real-time notifications, too.
One of the neat features of the 910 is that it has what Kwikset refers to as a Smart Key re-key, allowing you to rekey your smart lock in seconds.
Kwikset smart locks tend to have louder motors compared to other smart locks, which is often one of the main things that owners notice when switching brands. This may or may not be a downside, depending on personal preferences.
Overall the Kwikset 910 is an excellent well-built smart lock that can be used in cold climates, but it does have its own set of minor downsides.
August Smart Lock Pro + Connect
August is a really popular brand of smart locks. They are popular because they deliver a really great product with some features that a lot of people tend to skip over.
Why it’s good in the cold
The August smart lock is amazingly suited for the cold climate, but not for the reasons that a lot of people think.
Many of the locks on this list are on here because they feature a really rugged outside housing that will be easy to use in the cold, but August is not like most locks. August locks actually have no presence on the outside of your door.
Most smart locks have some sort of keypad or another electronic access system on the outside of the door, but August vouched for having a smart lock solution that is on the inside of your door only.
The great thing about this lock is that it never even encounters the cold weather, yet it gives you all the functionality that comes with having a smart lock.
Why this is a great choice
August is popular for a reason, and that reason is quality.
The products that come from August are the kind that simply works every time. A lot of cheaper smart locks have the issue of only working most of the time, but not this brand. I find that August products always make their way to my list simply because of the quality design and materials of the locks.
These smart locks are fantastic, and they deserve to be shown around.
Another point of greatness is their app. A lot of smart lock companies have apps that are cheap or just some sort of 3rd party software that manages them, but august is made with the software in mind. You could have a smart lock that has all the features that you want, but find out that it is unusable because of how poorly made the app is. August has done a really great job in making sure that their locks are well made and thoroughly planned.
The last thing that you should know about this lock is that it is really easy to install. You actually install it over the top of your current deadbolt system, meaning you can keep your current keys! How cool is that?
Cost analysis
Alright, I have told you that August locks are awesome, but are they worth the price tag?
The August Smart lock has all the features that you could really want in a smart lock as long as you don’t mind sacrificing the pin pad on the outside. It connects via Bluetooth, and is limited to nearby communication unless you also get their August Connect hub.
The August Pro, which is their higher end and much more attractive model costs about $200 dollars, which is not too bad for a lock.
Personally, if you are looking for a lock with the capabilities that match the August smart lock, then there is no other choice. If you are looking for a smart lock that has some sort of outside presence then keep reading.
Kwikset Smartcode 888
Kwikset has been in the deadbolt game for a really long time. They have been making locks for doors since before I was born, and that speaks volumes.
Why it’s good in the cold
A lot of smart locks use some sort of touchpad for their pin system, but Kwikset decided to use actual buttons, and that means a lot for people in the cold.
I live in a place with really cold weather, and there is nothing worse than having to take your gloves off to get out your keys or type in a pin when it is below 0 degrees.
Many of the touchpads out there actually sense the electromagnetic charge in your fingers to know where you are touching, but when you are wearing gloves those pins don’t work unless you have special gloves designed for using touch screens with gloves on.
Kwikset also did us all a favor in making their buttons really large and easy to press. Instead of having a 10 button matrix, this only has 5. It uses each button as 2 numbers, which is great. Some might say that this really limits the security, but in all honesty, it would still take a really long time to crack this code by brute force. These bigger and fewer numbers make punching in a code with gloves really easy.
Why this is a great choice
Kwikset locks are fantastic. They have been really great for a long time, and they are a major player in the smart lock market.
The specific reasons I like this lock are few but really important. After using this at my business office, I have my reasons for loving this lock. The first thing I love is how simple it is. The lock is really small compared to the technologically monstrous locks that you can find out there. Instead of looking like a computer sitting on your door, it is just a small extension on the normal look of a deadbolt.
The inside is no different. It is really small and inconspicuous, which is really important to me.
Cost analysis
This lock is surprisingly cheap for the quality you are getting. It is surely much cheaper than your normal lock. And for the massive amount of positive reviews that they have stacked up there, you know that you are getting a good lock. Kwikset is a solid brand, and this lock is a solid lock that lives up to the Kwikset name.
Yale Security YRD110ZW619
Yale is known for making smart locks are really low profile and cost-effective. This lock is no different. For a really affordable price, you are getting a really fantastic lock.
Why it’s good in the cold
Cold weather does affect the batteries. After a while, batteries explode and get damaged.
If you have a cabin that you want a smart lock for but you want to get rid of your standard house keys, then this is the lock for you.
Let me explain why.
Yale has a feature on all of their smart locks that is really impressive; they have a backup battery system. If you know that you are going to be leaving your smart lock for months of cold weather by itself, then your batteries are going to die, but with a lot of smart locks, you would have no way of getting access in the spring when you are looking to use your cabin/home again. With Yale, all you need to power your smart lock from the outside is a 12-volt battery. This will come in handy I promise.
This lock also features manual buttons, which I explained in the description of the previous lock why they are a good idea. Physical buttons will not fail you in the cold unless you expect there to be a lot of ice on the lock, in which case you shouldn’t have a smart lock at all. Although they are waterproof, pushing buttons on a lock that is covered in ice is really hard.
Why this is a great choice
Yale makes some really great looking locks, but this one is one of my personal favorites. It has all the features that you could want in a smart lock, and it looks great. Does it get much better than that?
Cost analysis
This is the biggest part of why I am recommending this smart lock. Want to talk about value? You can get this lock on Amazon for a meager amount!
That price is unheard of in the smart lock market. I doubt you will find a lock that is this high quality for that price. These things work well with most smart home accessories like Alexa and ring, which is impressive.
Try and find a better lock for this price, I dare you.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Smart Lock for Cold Weather
It is no secret that electronics—especially batteries—and cold, freezing weather do not mix well.
Even devices intended to work in cold temperatures may sometimes fail due to a number of different reasons.
There are several things that should be considered when choosing, using, and maintaining a smart lock in colder environments.
Batteries
One of the failing points of smart locks used in extreme colds are the batteries.
Extremely low temperatures can cause faster discharge of the battery. This means owners are likely to have to replace or recharge their batteries more frequently.
Lithium AA batteries tend to work better at low temperatures and are oftentimes a better choice when it comes to really cold winters. Some lithium batteries have operating temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit (-40 degrees Celsius). A good example of lithium AA batteries that can be used in extreme colds are those by Energizer.
The only issue with lithium batteries is that, on average, they tend to be more expensive.
Design
Generally, it is better to have the mechanical parts and electronics located on the interior part of the door.
In other words, the less stuff you have on the outside directly exposed to the cold weather, the better.
This will keep electronics protected from frost and cold temperatures.
However, homeowners may run into more issues with properties that are not kept warm or heated during the winter. This also applies to unheated garages.
The type of door and the materials it is made of can also significantly impact the battery life and the reliability of the smart lock.
Doors that do not have good insulation will keep the internal electronics of the smart lock colder. Although the ambient temperatures indoors might be higher, the lock itself will be exposed to cooler temperatures.
Generally, keeping an eye on the battery level and replacing or recharging the batteries religiously is recommended.
On that note, storm doors can provide much-needed protection not just to your front door but also to your smart lock.
A key backup is a must-have, especially in areas that can go as low as -40°F (-40°C); it is always better to be able to use your standard physical key in case something goes wrong with the smart lock.
Also, touchscreens may not always work as well as standard physical buttons.
Though not so modern, mechanical buttons tend to perform better in areas with more dust, dirt, and humidity and when exposed to sweat, for example. Frost and moisture may cause touchscreens not to work well, too.
Door issues
Cold weather, humidity levels, and temperature fluctuations can all cause some doors to move out of alignment over time which could cause some issues with motorized smart locks because more force may need to be applied in order for the door to be locked or unlocked.
This may cause various issues ranging from increased battery drainage to outright locking and unlocking failures.
Because of this, it is generally a good thing to have means of opening the door manually, as noted earlier. However, it is also worth inspecting the door and ensuring it will not move out of alignment and warp during the winter.
Related Questions
Are smart locks weather resistant? Most smart locks are designed to withstand almost every weather condition, but they will break over time like any normal deadbolt. They are waterproof and will generally withstand almost any temperature naturally found on earth.
If a smart lock breaks, will it unlock? Smart locks are designed with security in mind, and therefore when they break they will do their best to notify the user and lock the door as a default.
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