What's in the Box
Your Schlage Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt package should include: the Encode Plus deadbolt lock assembly (exterior and interior components), a strike plate with screws, a reinforcement plate, mounting hardware, two keys for the backup keyhole, two user codes pre-programmed, a door handing tool, and the installation guide. Confirm all parts are present and undamaged before starting the installation.
Prerequisites
Make sure you have the following before beginning:
- A standard door preparation with a 2-1/8 inch bore hole and a 1-inch edge bore (most exterior doors are already prepped for a deadbolt)
- A Phillips head screwdriver — no drilling is required if your door already has the standard deadbolt holes
- A 2.4 GHz WiFi network (the Encode Plus connects directly to WiFi without a hub)
- The Schlage Home app installed on your iOS or Android device
- Four AA batteries (usually included in the package)
- If using with Apple HomeKit, ensure you have a HomePod, HomePod mini, Apple TV 4K, or iPad set up as a home hub
Step-by-Step Setup
- Remove the old deadbolt: Unscrew and remove your existing deadbolt hardware from both sides of the door. Keep the old strike plate if the new one doesn't fit, though the Schlage strike plate is recommended for security.
- Install the strike plate: Attach the new Schlage strike plate and reinforcement plate to the door frame using the provided long screws. These screws anchor into the door frame stud for maximum kick-in resistance.
- Install the exterior assembly: Insert the deadbolt latch through the edge bore hole with the latch face oriented correctly. Thread the exterior keypad assembly through the door from the outside, making sure the cable connector feeds through the bore hole.
- Connect and mount the interior assembly: Connect the cable from the exterior assembly to the interior assembly. Align the interior mounting plate and tighten the two mounting screws evenly. Do not overtighten — the lock needs to operate smoothly.
- Install the batteries: Insert four AA batteries into the battery compartment on the interior assembly. The lock will perform a setup routine, and you will see the Schlage button light up.
- Test the lock manually: Test the deadbolt by turning the interior thumbturn and using the exterior keypad. Verify the bolt extends and retracts smoothly and that the door latches securely. If the bolt is stiff, slightly loosen the mounting screws and recheck alignment.
- Pair with the Schlage Home app: Open the Schlage Home app on your phone and create an account or sign in. Tap "Add Lock" and select "Schlage Encode Plus." Follow the on-screen prompts to connect the lock to your 2.4 GHz WiFi network. The lock connects directly to WiFi — no additional hub or bridge is required.
- Configure access codes: After pairing, set up your personalized user codes through the Schlage Home app. You can create codes for family members, guests, and service providers, and schedule codes to work only during specific hours or days.
Smart Home Integration Tips
The Schlage Encode Plus is one of the few smart locks that supports Apple Home Key, allowing you to lock and unlock your door by tapping your iPhone or Apple Watch on the lock — no app needed. To enable Home Key, add the lock in the Apple Home app and follow the prompts. The Encode Plus also integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Home through the Schlage Home app. Use voice commands like "Alexa, lock the front door" or "Hey Google, is the front door locked?" The lock works with Ring, Amazon Key, and other smart home platforms for comprehensive home automation, such as auto-locking the door when your Ring alarm is set to Away mode.
Quick Troubleshooting
If the lock won't connect to WiFi during setup, confirm you're using a 2.4 GHz network — the Encode Plus does not support 5 GHz. Move your router closer temporarily or use a WiFi extender if the signal is weak at your door. If the deadbolt is hard to operate, check the door alignment and loosen the mounting screws slightly. If the keypad is unresponsive, remove and reinsert the batteries. For persistent issues, perform a factory reset by pressing and holding the Schlage button on the exterior for 10 seconds until the lock beeps and resets, then re-pair through the app.
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