If you're locked out because your Schlage lock's battery dies, don't freak out or rush to call a locksmith. You can handle the unlocking process all by yourself, no need for a pro's help. It's really quite easy and straightforward.
In most models, you can easily bypass a Schlage lock using a battery jump start or with the help of the physical key.
So in this guide, I'll show you how to open a Schlage lock with a dead battery.
Overview
Before I jump into the model-specific instructions, let’s consider some of the common manual override procedures shared across all Schlage smart locks:
- Schlage smart lock models commonly feature a backup key for manual override in instances when the battery dies.
- Most models, excluding the Touch series of keyless electronic locks, requires inserting the backup key and rotating it much like a traditional lock to disengage.
- Touch Deadbolt BE375 and Touch Lever FE695, require connecting a new 9V battery to the contacts below the keypad as a jump start.
- Rekeying services are also available for the Encode, Sense, Connect, and electronic Keypad model locks through a professional locksmith. This will allow you to customize the keyhole so you can use your regular house keys.
Option 1: Open the Lock Using the Physical Key
Supported Models: Encode Plus, Encode, Sense, Connect, Keypad Deadbolt BE365 and Keypad Lever FE575, FE595
For these models, you can open the lock using the physical key. Insert the key into the cylinder and turn it like a traditional lock.
This will retract the deadbolt, and unlock the door. However, don't forget to replace the batteries as soon as possible to resume the Electronic functions of the lock.
Also, the cylinder lock on most models can be rekeyed, so don't forget to check with a locksmith or hardware store.
For the Schlage Connected Keypad BE369
The Schlage Connected Keypad also utilizes a physical key. However, the manual override procedure is slightly different to prevent tampering and lock picking.
Nonetheless, you shouldn't have to worry as long as you have the provided manual key on hand.
So to manually open the Connected Keypad BE369, follow these steps:
- Insert the key into the lock
- Turn the key counterclockwise to a horizontal position
- Push the key further inward to connect with the thumb turn
- Rotate the key counterclockwise again until it's fully vertical
Option 2: Open the Lock Using the Emergency Jumpstart
For Schlage Touch Deadbolt and Touch Lever
For the Keyless Touch series of Schlage locks, you can use a 9V battery to perform an emergency jumpstart. Here's how:
- Connect a new 9V battery to the contacts below the keypad.
- Wait for the lock to light up
- Enter a valid user code.
- Rotate the thumb turn to unlock.
Common Tips
- A majority of Schlage smart locks come with a physical key for manual override. So in the case of a dead battery or other malfunction, you can bypass the lock using the physical key.
- It's a good idea to keep this key on your keychain as a backup, so you'll always have access to your home.
- In cases where the lock doesn't include a physical key, Schlage has a different approach: emergency jump start, enabled by battery contact points.
- When your lock's battery is depleted, connecting a 9-volt battery to these points provides enough power to temporarily jumpstart the lock so you can enter your access code and open the door.
- Regardless of physical key or jump-starting overrides, it's crucial that you replace the lock's internal batteries immediately after you gain entry to ensure it functions correctly moving forward.
- Schlage locks can be rekeyed to match other locks in your residence for added convenience. To have this service performed, simply contact a professional locksmith.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can I Do if My Schlage Lock is Out of Battery Power?
When a Schlage electronic lock's battery dies, you are not completely locked out of your home.
You have a couple of options: use a physical key, or if your lock model has an external power backup, you can jumpstart the battery.
It is important to replace the dead battery as soon as possible, so the keypad or touchscreen functionality can be fully restored.
How Do I Know if My Schlage Lock’s Battery is Low?
The lock will often show signs such as a delay before unlocking, beeping sounds accompanied by flashing red and green lights, or a quick red blinking light without any code input.
By paying attention to these indicators, you can replace the battery promptly and avoid the inconvenience of a dead battery.
For more information, check out our guide on fixing a Schlage lock with a red blinking indicator.
Can I Rekey a Schlage Lock?
Most Schlage locks, with the exception of the Schlage keyless touch electronic models (BE375 and FE695), have cylinder locks that allow homeowners to rekey them. I recommend going through a locksmith to avoid damaging the lock, but you can also do it yourself.
How Secure Are Schlage Locks?
All popular models of Schlage locks come with AAA ratings from the Builders Hardware Manufacturing Association (BHMA). So in most contexts, they are sturdy and resistant to pick or bump attacks. Besides that, they have high-end encryption protocols (similar to the encryption used in online shopping) to stop hackers from gaining access.
Conclusion
As with any technology, Schlage electronic locks may occasionally experience glitches or suffer from low power issues caused by a dead battery.
Whatever the case, if you carry a compatible physical key with you, or have a set of spare 9V batteries, you have nothing to worry about as you can easily regain entry using a manual key override or an emergency jumpstart depending on your model.
So don’t forget to familiarize yourself with your Schlage lock model and act accordingly. Also, to prevent this from happening again always remember to replace the batteries once a year or whenever it indicates a low battery.
Sources
- https://www.schlage.com/content/dam/sch-us/documents/pdf/installation-manuals/schlage-encode-plus-quick-start-guide-BE499WB.pdf
- https://www.schlage.com/content/dam/sch-us/documents/pdf/installation-manuals/Schlage-Sense-User-Guide-P516-991.pdf
- https://www.schlage.com/content/dam/sch-us/documents/pdf/installation-manuals/24060857.pdf
- https://www.nexiahome.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/Keypad-Locks-User-Guide-12.4.13.pdf
- https://www.schlage.com/content/dam/sch-us/documents/pdf/installation-manuals/23780042.pdf