Solved in 2024: How to Change Access Code on Schlage Door Lock

Overview

Before I get started, let’s go through some of the common insights shared across all Schlage Smart Lock models.     

Programming Access Codes for Schlage Encode and Encode Plus

Here’s how you program access codes for these models.

Programming Codes for Older Models (Including the Sense, Connect, Touch, Keypad, etc.)

Basically, there are two ways that pre-2020 Schlage Smart Locks utilize to initiate manual programming mode. 

Apart from initiating programming mode, these older models utilize the same steps when it comes to adding/deleting user codes, changing the programming code, and other manual functions.

Let’s go through these common programming procedures

Manually Add / Delete Access Codes

How to Change the Programming Code

How to Delete All Access Codes

Warning: Please note that this deletes all user access codes and they cannot be recovered after you give the confirmation.

How to Change Access Code Length

This function is only available in the Schlage Sense and Connect. Also, changing the user code length will delete all pre-existing user codes.

Model Specific Instructions

Now that I've discussed the general processes to manage programming and access code, below are specific instructions based on each Schlage lock model.

The Encode Plus is the most recent model of Schlage Smart Locks and what makes it different from the standard Encode is compatibility with Apple HomeKit. 

Unlike the older models, Encode Plus doesn’t offer a lot of freedom for manual programming. Once you install the lock and set it up via Apple Home or the Schlage Home App, manual programming is disabled and can only be re-enabled after a factory reset. 

Manually Programming the Encode Plus

For manual programming, you can check the above guide. As you can see, it only allows adding or deleting user codes. 

While programming the Schlage Encode, the LED light will display an amber color when in manual programming mode, while the checkmark icon will flash upon successful programming.

Pairing with Apple Home App

Once your lock is installed, you can use the Schlage Home app or Apple Home app to lock and unlock your door remotely, as well as add codes for guests and household members.

Depending on your iPhone model, the pairing process may vary: 

For Android smartphones, you can download the Schlage Home App and follow the instructions to add a new lock to your account.

Programming instructions are the same as for the Schlage Encode Plus. You can control access codes via compatible Apps (excluding Apple HomeKit, of course) and manually add or delete access codes.

Integrating your lock with a smart home system or mobile app will further extend its functionality, allowing you to lock and unlock the door remotely and access additional features.

Also, please note that when you program the lock via an app, manual programming will be disabled. To re-enable manual programming you’ll have to disconnect it from the app and perform a factory reset.

A Schlage Sense Smart lock differs slightly from the Encode and older models. So for the Sense, you need to press the Schlage logo button to initiate programming mode. 

After this, the steps of manually adding or deleting user codes are the same. Beyond that, you also have more freedom for manual programming as it allows you to change the programming code, change the length of access codes, delete all access codes at once, and perform several other functions.

To get started, you will need the codes found on stickers in the User Guide or on the back of the Alarm Assembly.

These default codes will allow you to operate the lock and pair it with your iOS or Android device using the Schlage Sense app.

When adding or editing access codes, the app provides a simple and user-friendly interface for the process.

However, as usual, once you have successfully connected your lock to the app, manual programming functions will no longer be available. 

You will need to perform a factory reset if you wish to program your lock manually in the future.

Indicators on the Schlage Sense

Also, before you use manual programming, don’t forget to learn about the different lights and indicators on the touchscreen.

If you don’t have access to the Schlage Sense app or prefer to keep things localized, manual programming is still possible.

However, don’t forget:

Please refer to the above guide on programming procedures to find steps for manually programming the Schlage Sense. 

Before manually programming the Schlage Connect, it’s important to understand how the touchpad operates with the different buttons and indicators.

Here, the touchpad comprises the outside Schlage Button, the Green Check Mark, Red X, and the Programming Indicator.

Also, as usual, the lock comes with a default Programming Code and two unique Default User Codes.

These codes can be found on the Alarm Assembly and the user guide.

You can use these codes as they are, or you can customize them following the above guides.

The Schlage Connected Keypad BE369 comes pre-programmed with the default programming code and two user codes, which can be changed anytime as needed.

It also features a Turn Lock functionality, enabled by default, that allows you to lock the door from the outside without entering a user code.

However, when the Turn Lock feature is disabled, a user code must be entered at the keypad to lock the door from the outside.

Here's the map for the Lights and Beeps:

The Schlage Connected Keypad doesn’t require you to press the Schlage logo button to initiate manual programming mode. Go the other way around by inputting your programming code and then pressing the Schlage logo button.

For the Schlage touch, which primarily relies on manual programming, the built-in indicator light signals different statuses of the lock with various colors.

By understanding these indicator light signals, you can better manage and troubleshoot the lock's codes and operations.

Operating the lock involves a six-digit programming code and four-digit user codes.

Your lock comes with a unique default programming code, which you can find on an accompanying sticker and the User Guide.

The Touch Deadbolt allows up to 19 distinct user codes to be stored at once.

If you make a mistake during programming and you wish to cancel these changes just keep pressing the Schlage button continuously until the keypad lights up. It will revert the lock to the standby setting, allowing you to easily start over.

The Schlage Touch lever follows the same manual programming procedures as the Touch deadbolt. As such, the lock system’s status is conveyed through the indicator light on the keypad.

If the light is orange, it signifies that the lock is in programming mode, while green indicates that either a correct user code has been entered or the programming process is complete.

A red light represents an incorrect user code or an error in the programming system.

Default Programming Code

The lock comes preset with a unique default Programming Code and two unique default User Codes, which can be found on stickers on the touchpad assembly and in the User Guide.

The Programming Code doesn't unlock the lock but can be used to alter settings or add and remove User Codes.

If you forget the Programming Code, you can restore to factory settings, which will revert the lock to the default Programming Code.

Don't forget to keep this original programming code and user access codes safe. Never throw away the printed user guide and don't remove the default code stickers found on the back of the touchscreen.

The Schlage Touch lever supports 19 separate User Codes.

Since the Keypad models are older variants without any support for Smart features, these Schlage Keypad deadbolt models solely rely on manual programming. Check out the guide mentioned at the top for detailed instructions.

The lock's status is indicated by the changing colors of the Schlage button: orange for programming mode, green to confirm a correct user code and successful programming, and red to identify an incorrect user code, low batteries, or a programming error.

The lock uses a six-digit programming code and two four-digit user codes for setting up features and toggling the lock. There’s also the option to set up 19 user codes with four digits each.

Relying on manual programming only, the Schlage Keypad Lever FE575 and FE595 locks have color-coded button indicators to signify the lock's status.

An orange button tells you it's in programming mode, a green button means a correct user code was entered or the programming process is done, and a red button indicates an incorrect user code, a programming error, or low batteries – with red blinking being a critically low battery.

Managing these locks is simple enough thanks to the six-digit Programming Code that sets lock functions, and the four-digit User Codes that unlock the device.

Every lock comes preset with a unique default Programming Code and two default User Codes.

Keep in mind that the first four numbers of your Programming Code should be different from all existing User Codes.

Tips To Secure Your Home

Understanding Code Types – Programming vs Access Codes

Before diving into the programming process for your Schlage keypad, it's crucial to know the two distinct code types: a six-digit programming code and a four-digit user code.

The programming code grants access to the lock's settings and helps you create or modify the user codes.

On the other hand, user codes are given to individual users, enabling them to unlock the door using the keypad.

Safeguard Default Codes and Factory Reset

Take note that if you lose or forget your Programming Code, the only option left is to restore the factory settings of your lock.

However, remember that this step will also restore the default Programming and User Codes while erasing all existing User Codes and the current Programming Code.

Look for these default codes on the front or back of the printed guide that comes with the lock or at the back of the touchscreen or keypad.

Retrieve Lost Codes

Customer service won't be able to help you retrieve lost default codes, so it's absolutely essential to have them at hand before restoring factory settings.

Also, be aware that once you remove all access codes from the lock, they'll be gone forever and cannot be retrieved.

As a final piece of advice, always wait for the lock to flash and beep after entering a code or number before proceeding to the following step.

Update Codes on a Regular Basis

A crucial way to keep your home safe is by regularly changing your entry codes.

By updating your access codes often, you stay one step ahead of potential breaches or unauthorized access by individuals who may have once had access to your home.

Changing codes might seem like a hassle, but with Schlage smart locks, the process is generally straightforward.

Unique Codes

Another vital tip to consider is making sure that your access codes are not easy to guess.

Try to avoid using codes that incorporate personal information like your birthday, house number, or address, as these can be easily identified by individuals looking to break in.

Besides that, it's crucial to keep your primary entry code confidential and avoid sharing it with too many people as a precautionary measure. Also never give out your programming code as others can use it to delete all access codes and gain entry.

Temporary Access

If you need temporary access for guests, be sure to create guest-specific codes and promptly delete them once they are no longer necessary.

By following these tips and maintaining your Schlage smart locks access codes, you can ensure your home remains secure from potential threats.

Related Questions

My Schlage Smart Lock is Unlocking Without a Code

If your Schlage smart lock unlocks without a code, it may be due to an incorrect installation.

To resolve this issue, you'll want to reposition the lock's cam, making sure it is perfectly placed and aligned.

If the problem persists even after the lock has been reinstalled, it is best to contact Schlage customer service for further assistance.

Can I Stop the Beeping Sound on my Schlage Smart Lock?

Turning off the beeping sound on your lock is possible.

First, initiate programming mode depending on your model. Then, press the number 5 to disable the beeping sound.

Keep in mind, the beeping will still occur during lock programming and when the battery is critically low.

I’ve Forgotten My Programming Code. What Should I Do?

If you've forgotten your programming code, you can reset the lock by disconnecting its battery, pressing the “Schlage” button, and reconnecting the battery.

Press the button again until the light turns green and beeps.

Make sure to complete this process within ten seconds.

Conclusion