Schlage Lock Blinks Green But Won't Open (6 Easy Solutions)

Are you running into the issue of your Schlage lock being a little too secure and not opening even after it turns green? This can be a bit frustrating, but luckily it usually isn't too hard to fix.

The most common reasons your Schlage lock blinks green but doesn't open are:

• Incorrect Installation
• Enabled Lock Override
• Dirt or Grime Inside
• Low or Dead Batteries
• Simple Technical Glitch

After you get done calling your lock every name in the book except for smart, you will find that that issue likely comes down to a lack of maintenance or a simple glitch.

In this article, we will guide you through five detailed solutions to get your Schlage lock opening again after blinking green. Following these tips will help you identify the problem, learn a bit more about your lock, and give you some ways to prevent this from happening again.

6 Solutions for When Your Schlage Lock Blinks Green But Won't Open

1. Be Sure it is Installed Correctly

To ensure that your Schlage lock is functioning correctly, start by double-checking it is still properly installed. This could likely be the case if it is a new install or it is older, and some parts need some tightening.

Here's how you can check if your Schlage lock has been installed correctly:

• Be sure the lock mechanism operates smoothly without any resistance or binding. Turn the knob or lever to open the door and make sure it doesn't stick or require excessive force to turn. The key should also insert and turn smoothly.
• Check if the strike plate is properly installed and aligned with the latch. The strike plate should be centered on the hole in the door jamb, and the latch should engage with the strike plate without any force or adjustment needed.
• Examine the screws that secure the lockset to the door. The screws should be tight but not over-tightened, as this can cause damage to the door or lock. Ensure that the screws are the right size for the lockset and are flush with the door surface.
• Check if the lock has been installed on the correct side of the door. A Schlage lockset is designed for a specific orientation, either left or right-handed. Installing the lockset on the wrong side of the door will cause the lock to malfunction.

2. Check The Lock Override

Some Schlage keypad locks have a lock override feature that, when enabled, will not allow the keypad to be used. With some normal wear and tear, this feature can become slightly engaged on its own and not allow entry.

Here is how you can check or fix issues with the Schlage lock override mechanism:

• Check that it is not fully engaged. The lock override can be accessed by taking off the cover on the inside panel of the door. You will see the words "LOCK OVERRIDE," and there will be a small hole that grants access to a flat-head screw. When the line is horizontal, it is not engaged and should allow the keypad to unlock the door. If the line is vertical, it is engaged and restricts the usage of the keypad.
• Lock it and unlock it a few times. Even if it appears to not be engaged, try locking it and unlocking it several times, finally resting on the normal unlocked position to make sure it is fully horizontal.

3. Clean and Lubricate the Lock

Over time, dirt and debris can accumulate inside the lock, causing friction and making it difficult to turn the key. Grime can also put stress on the deadbolt and make it harder for it to close. This can result in a lock that doesn't function as smoothly as it should, which can be frustrating and even a potential security risk.

Here are some good steps to follow to properly clean your Schlage lock:

1. Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove any thick debris from the lock. Extend and retract the deadbolt to check for grime within the striking plate.
2. Wipe the surface of your door hardware with the mild soap and water mixture. Never directly apply chemicals to the lock or immerse parts in liquid, especially in areas that are exposed to direct sunlight.
3. Use fresh water on a clean cloth to wipe away any leftover soap. 
4. Dry the lock with a fresh, clean towel so that leftover wet spots do not easily accumulate dirt.
5. Use a light application of lock lubricant to maintain smooth movement of the lock's components. Take care to wipe away any visible excess lubricant.

4. Replace the Batteries

Replace the battery with a fresh one if it has been a while. Trying to operate the lock with batteries that are expired or damaged could cause harm to its essential parts.

It's worth keeping in mind that it's crucial to maintain the proper battery charge for your Schlage keypad lock. While many Schlage locks have a low battery indicator, it's not always reliable if you use low-quality batteries.

Here are a few tips to help you avoid any battery issues with your Schlage lock:

• Check that the batteries are not expired or damaged. While out-of-date batteries may work, they might hinder the lock with lower power output.
• Don't mix old and new batteries. Using a mix of new and used batteries increases the chance of them rupturing, which causes leakage and can damage the lock.
• Use alkaline batteries only. Schlage itself says to avoid lithium or rechargeable batteries as they may cause unstable performance.

If you notice any issues after replacing the batteries, see my Schlage lock not working after a battery change guide.

5. Perform a Factory Reset

If you perform all these steps and are still having the same issue, a reset can fix many technical issues that arise. We save this for last because it will reset all your codes to the default and force you to reprogram the lock.

However, programming your Schlage lock is more intimidating than it sounds and really doesn't take long at all. Be sure to have your default programming and user codes before you reset the lock, just in case.

If you don't have the manual that shows them, you can look at the white label inside the lock when you take the cover off to start the reset.

Here's how to perform a hard reset on a Schlage Keypad lock:

1. Open the door and unlock it: Open the door and unlock the lock if you can. This will prevent getting locked in the rare case the lock malfunctions.
2. Take the inside cover off and disconnect the battery: Most locks require taking out a few screws before you can remove the outer shell. Unclip the connector plate from the battery temporarily
3. Press the Schlage button once and then reconnect the battery: On the keypad, press and release the Schlage button one time. You then need to reconnect the battery within 10 seconds of pressing the button.
4. Press and hold the Schlage button until it turns green and beeps: You will need to hold the button for up to 10 seconds until you see green and hear it beep.

NOTE: You will now want to test your default user codes to see if they work and if the reset fixed your issue. If it didn't or the default codes aren't opening it, try resetting the lock again.

For more help with this or assistance with particular models, see our in-depth guide on how to reset a Schlage lock.

6. Attempt a Hardware Fix

When you have made it this far and your lock is still blinking but not opening. Unless this is a newer smart lock, there is a decent chance you can open it up and fix a minor hardware issue

This is very likely the case when you have already checked the installation and settings, but your Schlage lock knob is spinning but not opening.

There are a few parts in some older models of Schlage locks that may need some attention but are easy to fix. The harder part is just getting the lock off the door and opening it up

Be sure to call Schlage support before attempting a fix, if you think your lock may be under warranty and qualify for replacement.

Here's how you can open up a Schlage lock to check the lock mechanism:

Just so you are aware beforehand, you will need a Philips screwdriver and a  Torx screwdriver set to get the lock open. You may want to also take some pictures to help yourself with reassembly.

In this particular video, you can see the lock was blinking green but not opening up.

1. Remove the few screws that are holding the back cover.

2. Carefully disconnect the wires and remove the lock from the door.

3. Remove the Torx screws on the back of the front panel.

4. Remove the face place and knob or handle.

5. Take out the last few Torx screws holding the cover over the lock mechanism.

6. Check the spring pin is in place, and test the tension of the spring plunger.

7. While you have everything open, wipe dirt or grime from the small parts and the internals.

Summing it Up

More often than not, a Schlage lock just needs a little TLC when they start having problems. To be fair, they often see a lot of use and hold up for a long time.

If a reset worked and you are wondering why you didn't try that first, just know that each of these steps should have helped you in the long run.

Like with any with else, regular maintenance can go a long way and will hopefully save you some time and money.