Schlage Lock Blinking Red (6 Causes & Solutions)

A Schlage lock blinking red may be concerning, but the reasons behind it vary, and it's not always a major issue. This guide will help you decipher the cause of the blinking red light, understand its implications, and provide solutions to resolve the problem.

Here's an overview of the potential causes behind a blinking red light on your Schlage lock:

1. Low or nearly depleted batteries (most common)
2. Extremely low batteries, but the lock is still functional (blinks green, then red, or red after locking)
3. Critically low battery power, rendering the lock inoperable (continuous blinking red)
4. Invalid user code entry
5. Failed programming action
6. Firmware glitches or hardware damage

In most cases, replacing the batteries should resolve the issue. However, let's delve deeper into each cause and discuss the appropriate solutions.

Why Schlage Lock Blinks Red: 6 Reasons & Solutions

1. Low Battery Indicator

When a Schlage lock displays a green to red blinking light followed by the door unlocking, it's signaling a low battery warning. Some lock models may also exhibit a red blinking light after locking, which conveys the same message.

On more recent lock models, you might notice a red "X" blinking on the keypad, indicating that the batteries need replacement.

These warning signals serve as a prompt for you to change the batteries promptly, ensuring your lock continues to function correctly and doesn't become inoperative without a key.

Fixes: Replace the Batteries

When you got the low battery indicator, you are actually in luck because you may be able to get it open before the batteries go completely dead. Change the batteries right away so that the lock can work at full power and to avoid being locked out.

Schlage locks usually operate on four AAs, one 9-volt, or sometimes three AAA's. Change the batteries by accessing them on the inner door panel.

To Change the Batteries on a Schlage Lock, you:

1. Have the door open and unlocked.
2. Open up the inner panel by removing a few screws or pulling up on a black cover.
3. Disconnect the wire hooked to the batteries.
4. Replace the batteries with all fresh new ones.
5. Reconnect the wire to the batteries.
6. Test the lock with user codes.
7. Close up the lock and door.

You will not have to reprogram the lock after you change the batteries as low or dead power doesn't erase the memory in the lock. If you are having trouble changing the batteries or the lock isn't working now, check out Schlage lock not working after battery change.

2. Critical Battery Indicator

When the light is continually blinking red even without pushing buttons, the battery is critically low. The lock is letting you know that while the batteries may not be completely dead yet, there is not enough power left to operate the lock. It is literally using the last of the power to give you a heads-up that the batteries need to get changed immediately.

This is why you want to pay close attention to red blinking lights to get a heads up before they completely die. Dead batteries could result in you or a family member being locked out if they don't have the key, or if it's a totally keyless lock.

Fixes: Change The Batteries or Jump Start Them

If you are locked out with critically low batteries, you will likely need the key to open it, as it won't have enough power available to use the keypad. See how to open a Schlage lock with a dead battery for more ideas if you have found you are in fact locked outside.

When you can gain access to the inside panel, you will want need to replace the batteries will all-new ones.

In the chance, your lock is the Schlage Connect model and it has no power, you can jump-start it with a 9 Volt battery. You can identify if this is possible if you see two circular connection points under the lock turn.

It has this feature because it is a totally keyless lock, which means a key is not an option if the batteries have no charge. If you have this model, you may consider having a battery in your car or hidden outside somewhere in case your lock dies.

To jump-start your lock in this case you just firmly press a 9 volt to those contact points to give it the power temporarily. Hold it there until you have entered your user code and got the lock open.

3. Incorrect User Code

When your Schlage lock blinks solid red after attempting a user code it is telling you that you entered an invalid code. If you are certain you are using your normal valid code, there are a few things that could have happened. The lock could have been reset, which means you have to resort to the default codes to open it.

If it does not light up at all, you may have to wait 30 seconds to try again as you have entered too many incorrect codes.

Fixes: Enter a Valid Code or Try Reprogramming it

Naturally, you will want to try your code a few times to see if you are remembering wrong, or just pressing the wrong button. Try using the default user code that came with the lock if you know it, otherwise, you will need to locate it on the manual or inside the lock.

Check the batteries if you haven't already, as they could be low without showing signs of it. Move on to reset your lock if you can't get any user codes to work.

4. Programming Error

Were you trying to program your Schlage lock when you noticed the flashing red lights? If you were, the red lights mean there was an error in that programming step. Your lock will also blink red if you have reached the maximum amount of user codes on your lock.

Otherwise, it is pretty hard to get into programming mode by accident, but an orange light will let you know when you are in that mode.

Fixes: Try Programming the Lock Again or Resetting it

If you were just trying to program it and got confused by the red blinking, try entering programming mode and continuing what you were doing.

Here are my guides for assistance with changing the four-digit user code on your Schlage lock or what to do if you are without the default Schlage programming code.

When none of your normal user codes are working or when the lock just isn't cooperating, you can try hard resetting the lock. This restores your lock to its factory settings which means you will need the default codes to open or program it. These codes will be found in the included manual or inside the lock.

To revert your Schlage lock to its original factory settings, follow these general steps to reset the lock:

1. Disconnect the battery: Locate the battery under the cover plate on the inside of the door. Gently detach the connector plate with wires from the 9-volt battery or battery tray. Hold onto the battery wire, as you will need to reconnect it soon.
2. Press and release the Schlage button: Find the button with the Schlage logo at the top center of the keypad.
3. Swiftly reconnect the battery: Reattach the battery after pressing the Schlage button. If you take more than 10 seconds, restart the process from step 1.
4. Press and hold the Schlage button until it beeps and turns green: This indicates that the lock has been reset to its factory default settings. It can now be opened only with the default A and B user codes. Provided on the label until new codes are programmed.

Test the lock with the default user codes to ensure proper functioning. If the default codes don't work, try resetting the lock one more time.

5. Firmware Glitch or Connectivity Issue

If you are using a Schlage smart lock, having an outdated app or firmware version on your lock may cause connectivity problems. The lock can blink red if it has a firmware glitch or is having connectivity issues. Remember to check for updates regularly to hopefully prevent issues with the lock.

Fixes: Check for Updates or Reset the Lock

Updating the App

This is particularly important for users who have owned the lock for some time or have not recently downloaded the app. If you have somewhat recently downloaded the app, you likely have the latest version. However, it is always a good idea to check for updates.

To do so, visit the App Store or Google Play and search for the Schlage app. If an update is available, the store will provide an option to update.

Updating the Firmware

To check if a firmware update is available for your lock, open the Schlage Home app and navigate to the Firmware section in the settings. The app will typically alert you if an update is available.

Some locks will automatically keep the firmware up to date, so if you troubleshoot the Schlage Encode, because it won't update, try resetting it as it may auto-update in the setup process.

For users of the Allegion ENGAGE app, you can update your lock's firmware remotely through the app.

How to Check for Firmware Updates with the Engage App

1. Log in to the app and select the residence where the lock is installed.
2. Choose the lock unit you wish to update.
3. Once the "Connected" banner appears at the bottom of the screen, tap "Update Firmware" to check for available updates.

If an update is required, try reconnecting to the adapter after completing the update.

6. Damaged Hardware

What we don't want it to be is hardware damage, but there is a rare chance that a loose wire or some internal damage is causing the issue. Routine inspection of your Schlage lock can help identify potential hardware damage early, ensuring that your lock remains functional and secure.

Fixes: Inspect for Damage or Call Schlage Customer Support

Here's how to quickly inspect the exterior of your Schlage lock for hardware damage:

1. Visual inspection: Begin by examining the lock's exterior for any visible signs of damage, such as scratches, dents, or loose components. Pay close attention to the deadbolt, latch, and strike plate.
2. Operational test: Test the lock by inserting the key and turning it to ensure smooth operation. If the key is difficult to turn or the lock feels stiff, it may indicate an internal issue or misalignment.

Keep in mind that if you have a high-end smart lock, you will probably not want to disassemble it yourself. Consider calling Schlage Customer Support for other questions or warranty information.

If all other options have been exhausted, you can try opening it and checking the internals:

1. Disassemble the lock: Remove the lock from the door by unscrewing the mounting screws on the interior side of the lock. This will give you access to the lock's internals.
2. Examine internal components: Inspect the internal parts of the lock, such as the cylinder, tailpiece, and springs. Look for signs of wear, corrosion, or broken components. Ensure that all parts are properly lubricated and functioning smoothly.
3. Check the electronic components: For electronic locks, examine the wiring, circuit board, and battery connections for any signs of damage or corrosion. Ensure that all connections are secure and that there are no loose wires.
4. Reassemble the lock: Once you have inspected the lock's components, reassemble the lock and reinstall it on your door.
5. Test the lock: After reassembly, test the lock again to ensure proper operation. If the lock is still not functioning correctly, consult the user manual or contact Schlage customer support for further assistance.

Schlage Lock Blinking Red FAQs

Why is My Schlage Lock Blinking Red X?

Some Schlage lock models have an X that lights up for incorrect codes or to indicate an error. Normally if the X is flashing red, the batteries on the lock are low. Change the batteries, it will try to warn you before the batteries are too low for it to operate.

Why is My Schlage Smart Lock Blinking Red?

Whether it is a standard Schlage smart lock or a regular keypad lock, blinking red lights most often indicate low batteries. However, if it is a newer smart lock, after checking the batteries, you may also want to be sure that it is connected to Wi-Fi and working properly with your app.

Summing It Up

To summarize this issue, a Schlage lock blinking red can be caused by various issues, such as low or critically low batteries, incorrect user codes, and programming errors. The less likely issues are firmware glitches or hardware damage.

In most cases, replacing the batteries is worth trying first to try to quickly resolve the issues. However, hopefully learning the different reasons behind the red blinking light will help you address any issues promptly and keep your lock functioning at its best.