How To Reset A Schlage Door Lock

Resetting a Schlage door lock requires first clearing the device and then restoring the default codes. There are a number of reasons you may want to reset a Schlage door lock, ranging from forgetting the code to getting an error alert from the device itself. To help burglarproof your home, it's also smart to reset door locks when moving into a new home.

If you need to reset your Schlage door lock, it's a fairly simple task that can be accomplished in just a few steps, which makes it easy to change the code from time to time for a bit of added home security. Homeowners can do the reset themselves with nothing more than a Phillips screwdriver and a factory preset code.

1. Locate the Factory Preset Code

Reset a Schlage door lock by first finding the factory/default codes for the device. These codes are always included in the user guide that came with the lock set. If you don't have this guide handy, you can also find the codes on the sticker that is located either on the inside or outside of the lock itself. Make sure you don't skip this step, as these codes will be required for full setup, and the manufacturer can't help you with this if they are lost.

2. Open the Lock Housing

Open the lock housing by using a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws that hold it onto the back of the lock. Some units may have a decorative battery cover that you'll need to lift off prior to unscrewing the housing. When this is complete, look for the white sticker that has the preset codes if you don't already have them. Write these down, leaving the battery cover/back of the unit off so that you can access the battery or use the reset button.

3. Push Reset Button or Disconnect Battery

Reset the Schlage lock by engaging the reset button if one is available, or by disconnecting the battery. Once the cover and housing are removed, if the button is there, simply press and hold it until the red light isn't flashing anymore. Release it and wait until the lock resets itself and the light turns blue.

If your Schlage door lock doesn't have a reset button available, you'll need to do clear the lock codes manually by disconnecting the battery. This will prepare the unit for a reset.

4. Clear the Door Lock Codes

Clear the current door lock codes by pressing and holding the Schlage button on the front of the lock until it turns green. Then release it and reconnect the battery within the next 10 seconds. Press and hold the Schlage button again until you hear a beep.

5. Reset the Lock

Enter a factory preset code to make sure the lock has reset. Once you do this, the lock will go through a setup process. Let it complete this on its own. When it finishes, the lock is ready to be reset with your new codes.