Installing Your Aqara Smart Lock U100

Intermediate 30-45 minutes

The Aqara Smart Lock U100 is a fingerprint-enabled smart deadbolt that replaces your existing deadbolt lock. It supports fingerprint, passcode, NFC card, key, and app-based unlocking, and integrates with Apple HomeKit for remote control and automations. The U100 connects via Bluetooth and does not require an Aqara Hub for basic operation, though a hub extends its capabilities with remote access and automations.

What You Will Need

  • Aqara Smart Lock U100
  • Existing single-cylinder deadbolt (the U100 replaces it)
  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Measuring tape
  • Aqara Home app installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android)
  • 4 AA batteries (included)
  • Optional: Aqara Hub (M2, M3) for remote access and advanced automations

Checking Door Compatibility

Before installation, verify your door meets these requirements:

  • Door thickness: 35 mm to 58 mm (1-3/8" to 2-1/4")
  • Backset: 60 mm (2-3/8") or 70 mm (2-3/4") — adjustable
  • Standard deadbolt bore hole: 54 mm (2-1/8") diameter
  • The lock fits most standard US doors with a single-cylinder deadbolt cutout.

Removing the Existing Deadbolt

  1. Open the door so you can access both sides.
  2. Remove the screws from the interior side of the existing deadbolt assembly.
  3. Pull the interior and exterior halves of the old deadbolt apart and remove them.
  4. Slide out the old latch bolt from the edge of the door.
  5. Clean the bore hole and edge cutout of any debris.

Installing the Aqara Smart Lock U100

  1. Insert the new latch bolt into the edge of the door with the beveled side facing the direction the door closes. Secure it with the included screws.
  2. Adjust the backset on the latch if needed to match your door's 60 mm or 70 mm measurement.
  3. Feed the cable from the exterior assembly (the keypad side) through the bore hole from outside the door.
  4. On the interior side, connect the cable to the interior assembly (the thumb-turn side).
  5. Align the interior mounting plate over the bore hole and secure it with the long through-bolts that connect to the exterior assembly. Tighten evenly.
  6. Attach the interior cover by snapping it onto the mounting plate.
  7. Install the 4 AA batteries into the battery compartment on the interior side.
  8. Test the thumb-turn to make sure the deadbolt extends and retracts smoothly.

Setting Up in the Aqara Home App

  1. Open the Aqara Home app and tap the + icon.
  2. Select Smart Lock U100 from the device list.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to connect via Bluetooth. Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone and you are standing within a few feet of the lock.
  4. Create an admin passcode when prompted. This is the master code used to manage the lock.
  5. Assign the lock to your home and give it a name like "Front Door Lock."

Registering Fingerprints and Access Methods

  1. In the lock settings within the Aqara Home app, go to Access Management.
  2. To add a fingerprint, select Add Fingerprint and follow the prompts. Place your finger on the fingerprint reader on the exterior keypad repeatedly until registration is complete — typically 10 to 15 touches from slightly different angles.
  3. To add additional passcodes, select Add Passcode and enter a 6 to 10 digit code.
  4. To register an NFC card, select Add NFC Card and hold the card against the reader when prompted.
  5. You can create temporary passcodes with expiration dates for guests or service workers.

HomeKit Integration

The U100 supports Apple HomeKit directly via Bluetooth. During setup in the Aqara Home app, you will be prompted to add the lock to HomeKit. You can also add it later through the lock's settings by scanning the HomeKit code included with the lock. Once connected, you can lock and unlock your door from the Apple Home app, use Siri voice commands, and include the lock in HomeKit automations.

Enabling Remote Access

By default, the U100 operates over Bluetooth, meaning your phone must be nearby. To enable remote locking and unlocking when you are away from home, pair the lock with an Aqara Hub (M2 or M3) in the Aqara Home app. The hub bridges the Bluetooth connection to your home network, allowing full remote control.

Tips

  • Keep the emergency physical key in a secure location outside your home in case the batteries die.
  • The lock will provide audio and app alerts when battery levels are low. Standard AA batteries typically last 12 to 18 months.
  • If the batteries die completely, you can use a USB-C cable to provide temporary emergency power to unlock the door.
  • Enable the auto-lock feature in the app to automatically lock the door after a set period of time.

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