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Have you invested in a shiny new Schlage lock but aren’t sure how to integrate Schlage lock?
I was in the same boat last year after installing a Schlage Encode on my front door. I wanted all the convenience of controlling my lock remotely but struggled with the setup.
After nearly a week tinkering and troubleshooting, I finally achieved integration success.
But not without lots of frustration and banging my head trying to understand the fragmented smart home landscape.
The good news is, you don’t need to struggle alone. In this handy guide, I’ll hold your hand and walk you through everything you need to know to successfully integrate your Schlage into your smart home setup.
We’ll explore popular smart home platforms like SmartThings, Hubitat Elevation, and Apple HomeKit.
I’ll provide simple step-by-step instructions to connect your Schlage lock with these systems.
And we’ll even sprinkle in some handy troubleshooting tips in case you run into any hiccups along the way.
Consider me your smart home sherpa, guiding you to integration success.
So grab a refreshing beverage, put on your explorer’s cap, and let’s get integrating.
Choosing Your Schlage Smart Lock Companion
Before we get our hands dirty with integrations, let’s take a quick pause to make sure you’ve chosen the right Schlage lock for your smart home needs.
Schlage offers a range of lock types featuring different connectivity protocols. Selecting the right one ensures a smooth integration experience.
The main decision here boils down to Wi-Fi vs Z-Wave. Z-Wave locks like the Schlage Connect communicate using the Z-Wave protocol and require a separate hub to control them.
Wi-Fi models like Schlage Encode feature onboard Wi-Fi and can connect directly to your home network.
Schlage Connect: The Affordable Z-Wave Option
Schlage Connect is a popular Z-Wave enabled deadbolt perfect for smart home beginners. It cannot connect directly to your home Wi-Fi.
Instead, you’ll need a Z-Wave hub like Samsung SmartThings or Hubitat Elevation to integrate this one.
The major pros of Schlage Connect are affordability and wide compatibility with many Z-Wave ecosystems.
The potential downside is needing an extra hub, which adds cost. But for most, the convenience is worth it!
Schlage Encode: The Direct Wi-Fi Option
If you want to keep things simple, Schlage Encode cuts the cord with onboard Wi-Fi.
This lets you manage the lock directly from the Schlage Home app without a hub.
You can also link Encode to third-party systems like Alexa or HomeKit with optional plug-in adapters.
Going hub-free is super convenient. But some advanced integrations like custom routines, automation rules, and device triggers require a central hub anyway.
So even with Encode, you may eventually need something like SmartThings or HomeKit.
Other Schlage Lock Options
Of course, Connect and Encode are just two models in Schlage’s wide smart lock lineup.
You’ll also find Z-Wave and Wi-Fi options with touchscreens, keypads, and even fingerprint unlocking.
My advice is to shop around and choose the lock design you like best. Any of the Z-Wave models play nicely with SmartThings and Hubitat.
For Wi-Fi locks, make sure your ecosystem supports them before buying.
Now that you know the basic differences between Schlage lock types, let’s move on to the good stuff: actually integrating them into your smart home.
Integrating Your Schlage Lock and SmartThings
If you’re using Schlage Connect or any Z-Wave Schlage lock, Samsung SmartThings is an excellent integration choice.
With its user friendly app, evolving ecosystem integrations, and Sony SRS-XB23 Blue tooth speaker included, SmartThings remains one of the most popular hubs.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to connect your Schlage device with SmartThings:
Step 1: Enable Z-Wave Pairing Mode on Your Schlage Lock
Every Schlage lock has a slightly different method to activate pairing mode. Please check your model’s manual for specifics. In general though, the process is:
- Remove the lock’s interior cover plate
- Locate a small pairing or network button
- Press and release the button
This enables pairing mode for a short time. You’ll know it worked if your lock starts rapidly blinking a colored LED. If not, consult Schlage’s troubleshooting guide.
Step 2: Add New Device in the SmartThings Mobile App
While your Schlage is in pairing mode, open the SmartThings app on your mobile device and:
- Tap the “Add Device” button
- Select the option for Z-Wave devices
- Choose “Schlage Lock” from the device list
- Select your lock model
SmartThings will display a loading screen as it automatically detects your Schlage.
Pro Tip: If SmartThings can’t find your device, try re-activating Z-Wave pairing mode on your Schlage and repeat the search. Placement closer to your SmartThings hub can also help.
Step 3: Name Your Device
Once successfully discovered, you’ll have the option to name your Schlage lock within SmartThings. Something descriptive like “Front Door” or “Side Garage” works well.
And that’s it! After confirming setup, your Schlage lock will be fully integrated into SmartThings for easy control and automation. Pretty painless, right?
Connecting Your Schlage to Hubitat Elevation
Hubitat Elevation is another excellent – and perhaps less known – option for Schlage integration.
Developed by former SmartThings employees, Hubitat champions local processing and reliability.
If you crave faster response times and customizability, Hubitat and Schlage make a powerful pair.
Step 1: Activate Z-Wave Pairing Mode on Your Schlage
Just like with SmartThings, you’ll first need to enable Z-Wave pairing mode so Hubitat can find your Schlage.
Refer to your lock’s manual for specific steps. Usually this involves pressing a button on the inside after removing the cover.
Step 2: Discover New Devices in Hubitat Web Interface
Unlike SmartThings, Hubitat is controlled from a local web interface rather than an app. To add your Schlage:
- Login to your Hubitat dashboard
- Navigate to the “Devices” section
- Click on “Add Virtual Device”
- Select “Schlage Z-Wave Lock”
Hubitat will now search and pair with your lock. You may need to input your Z-Wave PIN during this process for enhanced security.
Step 3. Name Your Device and Explore Integrations
That’s the basics to get your Schlage connected into Hubitat! Be sure to name your device, confirm functionality, and have fun exploring automation rules.
Hubitat has very powerful options for customization – more so than SmartThings.
So if you’re feeling adventurous, Hubitat and Schlage open up lots of possibilities. But don’t worry, the interface includes tons of examples and templates to help guide beginners.
Integrating a Schlage Lock with Apple HomeKit
Apple users rejoice! Schlage offers excellent integration with HomeKit allowing Siri voice control, automation based on people detection, and super secure remote access while away from home.
Let’s look at how to connect HomeKit and Schlage:
Prerequisite: Install Your Schlage Home Bridge
Schlage Wi-Fi locks like Encode can pair directly with HomeKit. But for Z-Wave models, you’ll need an Apple TV, HomePod, or iPad set up already as a home hub.
You’ll also want to grab and install a Schlage Sense Home Bridge. This acts as the interpreter between Z-Wave and HomeKit.
Step 1: Follow Onscreen Instructions to Pair
With your HomeBridge powered and nearby, simply use the Add Accessory function in Apple’s home app.
Either scan the HomeBridge code with your phone camera or type it manually. The integration happens automatically.
That’s it! iOS will walk you through everything else including naming your lock, assigning rooms, and setting up Siri voice control. It’s fantastically simple for an Apple-centric smart home.
Step 2: Explore Added Functionality
Now the fun begins. With your Schlage connected into HomeKit, you gain access to powerful features like setting scenes based on lock/unlock status, automating other devices when you arrive/leave, securing your home with Home app alarms, and using Siri for hands-free control.
HomeKit and Schlage play together wonderfully. And if you’re invested into the Apple smart home ecosystem, it’s a no brainer integration choice with great benefits.
Advanced Integrations: Taking Your Schlage Further
Connecting your Schlage lock to SmartThings, HomeKit or Hubitat gives you remote access, automation capabilities, and basic convenience features.
But the magic really starts when you begin linking your lock with other devices for even more advanced functionality.
Here are just a few examples of fun integrations possible when combining Schlage with smart lights, cameras, sensors and beyond:
- Automatically unlock your Schlage when your smart doorbell camera detects you arriving home for convenient, key-free entry.
- Flash your Philips Hue lights red if your Schlage detects an invalid access code being used while you’re away.
- Close your Chamberlain garage door and raise your Nest thermostat temperature if your Schlage locks while you’re not home, saving energy.
- Trigger Alexa or Google Assistant to announce “Welcome home!” when family members unlock your Schlage.
Those are just a taste of what’s possible by thinking beyond basic lock control.
Both HomeKit and Hubitat make complex integrations very achievable for amateur smart home enthusiasts.
So don’t be afraid to test out those creative automation ideas dancing around your head!
And we can’t forget about IFTTT.
Adding IFTTT to Your Schlage for Limitless Possibilities
IFTTT (If This Then That) is a free automation platform letting you create powerful “Applets” between smart devices and web services.
It works with both Schlage Wi-Fi and Z-Wave locks. And it opens up nearly limitless ways to integrate your Schlage.
Some fun examples include:
- Text yourself if your Schlage is ever unlocked after 11:00PM (great for parents!)
- Save a screenshot from your Nest Cam if someone ever unlocks your Schlage
- Have Google Assistant tell you who unlocked your Schlage by name
- Log all Schlage activity to a Google Sheet
- Flash Philips Hue lights whenever anyone unlocks
As you can see, IFTTT adds incredible capabilities through virtual bridges between your Schlage, other brands, and popular web tools. Definitely consider it!
Handy Tips for Troubleshooting Your Integration
Hopefully at this point connecting your Schlage is complete and you’re having fun exploring your awesome new smart lock.
However, finicky technology does sneak up occasionally to ruin your night. So let’s chat about some common troubleshooting tips in case your integration isn’t behaving:
- For connectivity issues between your Schlage and hub, try power cycling both devices. Also ensure they are within 30 ft / 10 meters for ideal performance.
- Check your Schlage and hub firmware versions and update to current releases if possible. Outdated firmware is a common culprit!
- Make sure your Schlage lock has fresh, high quality alkaline or lithium batteries. Weak batteries equal unstable connections.
- Look at your hub or smartphone logs for clues on exactly what’s failing during the integration process.
- For Wi-Fi models, reboot your home router if experiencing connectivity problems and confirm Schlage has the current Wi-Fi password saved.
- Factory reset your Schlage as a last resort troubleshooting step to wipe any weird configuration quirks. You’ll have to fully re-pair the lock after resetting.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to your lock manufacturer or smart home ecosystem developers for added support if needed.
They’re usually quite responsive and happy to help get things functioning smoothly.
FAQs
How Do I Add Access To Schlage Lock?
Adding access to a Schlage lock is easy through the Schlage Home app or third-party smart home integrations. Here is the basic process:
- Open the app controlling your Schlage lock (Schlage Home, SmartThings, etc.)
- Navigate to the lock settings
- Look for the “User Codes” section
- Click “Add User” and create a 4-8 digit unlock code
- Select permissions for the code: recurring, temporary, various times/days allowed
That’s the basics. Most apps make the process very intuitive. Some tips:
- Give memorable codes to frequent visitors like family or dog walkers
- Create temporary codes for visitors like your Airbnb guests or home contractor
- Disable codes immediately if you need to revoke access
Following app prompts makes user code creation a breeze. Choose codes wisely depending on who needs access and how often.
Can I Connect My Schlage Lock To My Phone?
Yes, definitely! Connecting your Schlage to a smartphone allows convenient features like controlling the lock remotely, viewing access history logs, adding user codes on the go, and integrating with smart assistants.
For WiFi-enabled Schlage locks like Encode, simply download the Schlage Home app to connect directly.
For Z-Wave models like Connect, you’ll need a smart hub like SmartThings first. This acts as the bridge between the Z-Wave lock and your home WiFi.
Popular hubs like Hubitat Elevation and HomeKit also work excellently with Schlage locks.
With the correct hub paired, you can manage your Schlage completely from your iOS or Android device. It enables remote access from anywhere via phone signal or internet.
So in short – all Schlage locks support mobile access and control given the proper hub or WiFi bridge.
What Do I Need For Schlage Connect?
Since Schlage Connect uses Z-Wave technology, you’ll need a compatible Z-Wave hub for connectivity. This hub acts as the bridge between your lock and WiFi router.
Here are the basics to operate a Schlage Connect:
- Z-Wave hub (Options: SmartThings, Hubitat Elevation, Ring Alarm retrofit kit, Echo Show 15, or home alarm panel with Zwave)
- Strong batteries – 4AA batteries
- A bit of patience during setup! But very straightforward.
And that’s it! The Connect doesn’t need hardwiring or permanent wiring. Installation takes about 10-15 minutes with no extra tools required. Everything necessary comes included right in the box.
So all you need beyond the basics is a reliable Z-Wave hub for connectivity. Popular choices like SmartThings allow easy integration using their smartphone app.
What Is The Default Code For Schlage?
If you’re locked out of your Schlage, try using the default factory codes below:
| Lock Model | Default Code |
|---|---|
| BE365 | 12345 or 0000 |
| FE595 | 1234 or 0000 |
| BE375 | 1234 or 0000 |
| BE479 | 1234 or 0000 |
These codes are preset from the factory and bypass normal user codes. Note that they still may be changed or disabled on some units.
If the defaults don’t work, you likely need to reset your Schlage lock completely. This wipes ALL codes and resets it to factory state. It’s also a handy troubleshooting step if experiencing glitches.
How Does Schlage Auto Lock Work?
Schlage locks feature a handy “Auto Lock” mode that automatically re-locks the deadbolt after 30 seconds. This ensures your home is secured even if you forget to manually twist the lock open.
To enable Auto Lock:
- Open your Schlage app settings
- Locate Auto Lock and turn this feature ON
- Toggle whether Auto Lock engages after 30 seconds or if it requires the door to open/close first before the countdown starts
That’s it! This mode functions whether you manually lock the door or use the app/remote. After 30 seconds, the deadbolt locks itself. Pretty handy security assurance!
A few smart features like leaving the house routines and geofencing rely on Auto Lock. You can tweak the settings to best fit your preferences.
How Do I Reset My Schlage Lock?
If your Schlage isn’t responding or you can’t access programming modes, a factory reset often helps. Resetting wipes all settings and paired devices.
To reset, locate the small pinhole on the exterior side of the lock. You’ll need something small like a paperclip to press the hidden button.
While pressing the reset button, turn the manual dial clockwise and count slowly to 30 seconds.
If done correctly, releasing the reset results in the Schlage restarting itself. It will flash a few LED colors during bootup. At this point the lock reverts to a clean factory state allowing you to re-pair and program from scratch.
Resetting your Schlage comes in handy whenever the device starts acting buggy or isn’t allowing access anymore. Just be warned it wipes all custom settings!
What App Controls Schlage Connect?
The Schlage Home app offers basic controls for the Connect. But for advanced features, a third-party Z-Wave hub unlocks better options:
- Samsung SmartThings – Most fully-featured integration with automation rules, device triggers, remote access, etc. Allows using your phone as a complete Connect controller and communicator.
- Hubitat – Local home automation hub with incredibly powerful options for customization amd processing speeds faster than SmartThings.
- Home Assistant – Open source home automation for techies. Tons of potential when self-hosted but requires comfort with coding and IT administration.
- Apple HomeKit – Excellent if already using HomeKit products. Needs the Schlage Sense Home Bridge but offers great automation especially for iOS users.
Start with SmartThings or HomeKit for the smoothest initial experience. Both offer user friendly apps and great interconnectivity across smart products.
How Do I Change My Schlage Connect Code?
No problem, changing your Connect access code is easy through the controlling hub app. The steps are:
- Open your Connect’s app (SmartThings, HomeKit, etc)
- Navigate to lock settings then User Codes
- Select your existing code
- Delete the current code
- Enter a new 4-8 digit unlock code
- Click Save
That’s all there is to it! The new code becomes immediately active so be sure to remember it.
We recommend keeping a written copy of custom codes somewhere secure in case you need to reference. And don’t hesitate to change codes whenever you need to revoke access.
Does Schlage Connect Work With App?
Absolutely! When paired with a proper Z-Wave hub, Schlage Connect works excellently with companion smartphone apps for remote management.
This allows locking, unlocking, monitoring activity feed, adding user codes, automation rules and much more.
Here are some top choices:
- Samsung SmartThings – Our #1 recommended app for Schlage. Very user friendly with tons of built-in features.
- Hubitat – Powerful Hubitat dashboard accessible via web interface or mobile app.
- HomeKit – Requires Apple HomePod/ATV and Schlage Sense Bridge. Fantastic especially for Apple households.
- Alexa / Google Home – Simple voice control but limited capabilities beyond basic remote lock/unlock.
So in short, yes – Schlage Connect and apps play together wonderfully. Complete mobile access makes managing Connect super convenient from anywhere. A compatible Z-Wave hub unlocks this capability.
Conclusion
Now we’ve covered the full process of integrating Schlage smart locks – from understanding connectivity methods to step-by-step hub pairing.
Always remember to choose between Z-Wave and WiFi Schlage models based on budget and ecosystem fit and SmartThings, Hubitat plus HomeKit offer excellent hub options too.
I encourage you to grab your Schlage lock and get busy connecting. Start simple by ensuring remote access and manual control.
Then build up from there with custom modes, notifications, triggers and more. Your Schlage is ready to become the heart of a powerful smart home.
