Smart locks are high-tech devices that allow you to keep your home secured and at the same time provide the convenience you need to get in and out of your home.
One of the popular smart lock brands is the August Smart Lock. Many homeowners have purchased it, but most are still clueless about how to install August Smart Lock.
What Is an August Smart Lock
The August Smart Lock is a home security device that lets you lock and unlock your doors remotely. These locks attach to any existing deadbolt and can be set up so that it automatically locks and unlocks as you leave and arrive. Moreover, you can still use your traditional keys and sync it with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa for voice activation.
Features
Smart locks by August have almost similar basic qualities with some models, but with upgraded features. Here are the common features of August Smart Lock:
- Total control: With this smart lock, you can lock and unlock doors, provide keyless access, and see who comes and goes right from your dedicated August App.
- Auto lock and unlock: The system unlocks as you approach the door and locks automatically as you leave.
- DoorSense technology: Only the August brand of smart locks has this. It is a sensor that informs you if the door is actually locked.
- Two-factor authentication: For added security, August smart locks use two-factor authentication methods.
- Two-layer encryption: In addition to the two-factor authentication, the smart locks also use two-layer encryption that utilizes Bluetooth Energy for another layer of protection.
- Lost phone: In case of phone loss, you have the option to disable the app and every single active virtual keys on added devices using a dedicated website.
How to Install August Smart Locks
This guide is for August Smart Lock models that use the universal mounting plate included in the kit. Before starting, please make sure that the existing deadbolt is compatible with your smart lock unit.
The August Smart Lock only supports standard one-cylinder deadbolts. Installation usually takes about 15 minutes and you will just need a Phillips screwdriver for this.
The kit includes one unit August Smart Lock, four AA batteries, one adhesive strip, three adapters, and one mounting plate. Here is the step-by-step guide on how to install August Smart Lock:
1. Prepare the Existing Deadbolt
Stick the included adhesive tape over the lock’s keyhole, making sure it is secured to the door’s exterior. The tape should hold it in place as you take off the thumb-latch from the door’s interior.
For doors with certain finishes like glossy paints and varnishes, the included adhesive strips may not be sticky enough to hold the keyhole in place. If this is the case, use additional tape strips so that the keyhole won’t move. You may use packing tape or any other strong tape, but be careful in using duct tape as it may damage the finishing of your door.
2. Remove the Existing Thumb-Latch
Position the thumb-latch in a way that allows you to unscrew the existing deadbolt screws. Completely remove the screws from the deadbolt. Keep the screws as you will need them in the succeeding step.
After the screws have been removed, unlock the deadbolt before taking off the thumb-latch. If the thumb-latch comes with a back plate, remove the back plate and use it for the next step, along with the longer screws.
3. Set the Mounting Plate in Place
The mounting plate has two screw holes that can be adjusted and positioned accordingly. Unfasten the screws from the thumb-latch.
Insert the screws into the foremost part of the mounting plate, and then attach the mounting plate on the deadbolt tailpiece using the screws. Tighten them using your hand just until the mounting plate is set on the door. Be careful not to over tighten the screws or you may risk damaging the mounting plate, which may interfere with the lock’s operation.
4. Choose and Attach the Proper Adapter
Using the Compatibility Chart provided on August’s website, pick the correct adapter. Once you’ve done that, place it into the deadbolt tailpiece, making sure the small nub is pointing up. Again, be careful not to tighten the screws too much as doing so may damage the plate and interfere with the lock’s operation.
5. Affix the August Smart Lock
Insert the included adapter into the back of the smart lock unit. Position the smart lock properly, making sure the August badge is at the bottom.
Pull out both latches at the side wings. Slide the unit over the deadbolt tailpiece and secure it into the mounting plate, making sure the back of the smart lock is flush against the door.
To make sure the August Smart Lock is attached securely, clamp down the two side wing latches against the mounting plate. If you see that the latches have difficulty clamping down, do the last part of the fourth step again and make sure the screws are not too tight. You may need to re-adjust screw tightness if the wing latches are not clamping down properly.
6. Take Off the Battery Tab
Press down on the logo at the faceplate’s bottom, prompting the top of the plate to tilt outward. Remove the faceplate.
Take off the plastic isolation tab for the batteries while keeping the batteries in place. Check if the battery is in its proper compartment. Place back the faceplate onto the smart lock, making sure the August logo is at the bottom.
7. Complete the Setup Using the August Home Application
Download and install the app. From the home screen selection, tap “Get Started”. If you are already logged in, please tap “Set Up a Lock”. Follow the prompt and you are all set.
Conclusion: How to Install August Smart Lock?
While traditional deadbolts have kept your home safe for years, it is not too late for an upgrade. With a lot of high-tech home security devices available, such as the August Smart Lock, keeping your home safer and more secure is not a challenge anymore. You can even get a major upgrade for your convenience.