I installed this deadbolt on a new exterior garage service door about 5.5 months ago. The original batteries lasted about 3 months or so. After that, I’m replacing batteries about every 2 weeks or so (it’s currently on its 4th set). I’m in Minnesota so I’m aware that battery life is affected by cold but I’ve got other battery devices out in the cold that don’t experience replacement anywhere close to this drastic. And the temp in the garage usually stays above 32 anyway unless we get an extended cold snap. The bolt throw is perfectly smooth and doesn’t bottom out (I took the trim off to check) so that’s not the problem. I changed the polling action to 0 so I don’t think that’s a problem. But I’m not sure where the problem might be. I’m almost wondering if one the later firmware upgrades I installed on my Vera Edge is having a negative affect on this deadbolt even though I’m not experiencing any issues with my other Schlages (or any of my other devices). Seeking suggestions. Thanks!
Is the deadbolt on the fringe of your Zwave coverage? I am thinking that perhaps it needs to transmit at full power to reach the nearest neighbor. Perhaps putting a wired zwave device or extender nearby might help with communication and allow the lock to use a lower power or eliminate re-transmitting signals.
-bob
[quote=“rbakley, post:2, topic:190946”]Is the deadbolt on the fringe of your Zwave coverage?
-bob[/quote]
Rats. I forgot to include that bit of info. The lock is about 12" (one foot) from a primary GE z-wave light switch so I’m guessing it’s getting a pretty good signal.
Just a long shot, but I assume the batteries were not the same brand, batch, age, etc? Perhaps try buying a brand that lists the expiration date on the battery and choosing the ones with the furthest date. Or just a different brand altogether, maybe the battery chemistry and physical construction creates a battery that is better at the cold weather.
-bob
I’m game to try other batteries but I don’t think that’s the problem. I’ve been using Duracells that I bought in a bulk pack at Sams about 6 months ago. Same ones I use in my Schlages which are still going strong. But since I’m out of other ideas I might as well give another brand a chance.
I have one of these on my garage exterior door. I am in a warmer climate but its been at least 6 months and the batteries are at 80%.
Try repairing your network, there could be a bad route causing the lock not to route through the switch.
My problem with these is it beeps occasionally for no obvious reason. I see a failed time set in the loss but haven’t figured out how to make that go away.