Schlage Encode Century Touchscreen Deadbolt

The Schlage Encode Century delivers Grade AAA commercial-grade security with -35°C cold-weather performance and built-in Wi-Fi. No hub needed. No bridge to fail. Just direct connection to your 2.4 GHz network for remote access that actually works when the temperature drops below zero.

This smart deadbolt brings genuine commercial-grade components to residential doors — ANSI/BHMA A156.40-2015 Commercial Grade 1 certification, exterior rated from -35°C to 66°C (-31°F to 150.8°F), and up to 100 unique access codes. Battery life runs approximately 6 months on 4 AA alkalines, though some users report shorter life under heavy use.

Installation Specifications

The Encode Century fits standard 2-1/8” bore prep with adjustable 2-3/8” or 2-3/4” backset. Door thickness range covers 1-3/8” to 1-3/4”, with some sources mentioning compatibility up to 2-1/4” with specific hardware. Schlage’s Snap ‘n Stay design holds components in place for one-person installation — actually useful when you’re working solo.

Specification	Value
Bore diameter	2-1/8” (54 mm) standard
Backset	Adjustable 2-3/8” or 2-3/4”
Door thickness	1-3/8” to 1-3/4”
Exterior dimensions	3” x 5” x 0.9”
Interior dimensions	3” x 5.5” x 2.2”

Installation requires only a Phillips-head screwdriver and tape measure. No wiring or drilling needed for standard doors. Reviews consistently highlight the straightforward setup process, making this a realistic DIY upgrade or quick contractor install.

Cold Weather Performance

The exterior assembly operates from -35°C to 66°C — tested performance that matters when January temperatures hit -20°F. Testing in Alberta and Quebec winters confirms the motor torque maintains effectiveness in deep freezes. Most smart locks fail around 0°F. This one keeps working.

Key components are tested for motor torque, battery voltage, and responsiveness in freezing conditions. The difference shows up in consistent operation when other electronic locks freeze solid or drain batteries in minutes.

Remote Access Without the Complexity

Built-in 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connects directly to your network — no hub cluttering your router closet, no bridge to lose connection. Supports up to 100 unique 4-8 digit codes with Airbnb and VRBO integration for managing short-term rental properties.

Common use cases include residential front doors, rental properties, and office buildings where secure, keyless entry is desired. The real value shows up in vacation rental management. Create temporary codes remotely. Delete them when guests check out. Track who enters and when through the mobile app.

Wi-Fi connectivity can occasionally drop or require resetting — the trade-off for hub-free operation. Keep the mechanical key backup handy.

Security Credentials That Matter

BHMA Grade AAA rating represents the highest residential certification for Security, Durability, and Finish. ANSI/BHMA A156.40-2015 and A156.36 Commercial Grade 1 certification. These aren’t marketing terms. They’re tested standards for forced entry resistance, cycle testing, and finish durability.

Security Feature	Specification
BHMA Rating	Grade AAA (highest residential)
ANSI/BHMA Standard	A156.40-2015 Commercial Grade 1
Keying	5-pin tumbler, C Keyway
Built-in Alarm	Sounds on forced entry or significant door movement
ADA Compliant	Yes

The fingerprint-resistant touchscreen uses backlighting to hide smudge patterns — actual security improvement over standard keypads where wear patterns reveal common codes.

Bottom Line

The Encode Century costs more than basic smart locks. The premium buys genuine cold-weather operation, commercial-grade security ratings, and remote access that works without additional hardware. 4 AA batteries provide approximately 6 months of operation, with low-battery alerts through both the touchscreen and mobile app.

Skip this lock for basic residential doors where a standard deadbolt suffices. Choose it for vacation rentals, multi-property management, or any installation where -35°C operation and remote access justify the investment. Integration extends to Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Ring devices, and the Schlage Home app.

Schlage brings over 100 years of lock manufacturing heritage to this smart deadbolt. The Encode Century proves that experience translates to reliable operation when temperatures plummet and remote access becomes essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the Schlage Encode Century work with my existing deadbolt hole?

Yes, if your door has a standard 2-1/8” bore hole. The lock includes adjustable backset for either 2-3/8” or 2-3/4” configurations. Door thickness must be between 1-3/8” and 1-3/4” for standard installation.

Q: How does the cold weather performance compare to other smart locks?

The Encode Century’s exterior assembly operates from -35°C to 66°C (-31°F to 150.8°F). Components are specifically tested for motor torque, battery voltage, and responsiveness in freezing conditions. Most competing smart locks fail or experience severe battery drain below 0°F.

Q: Do I need a smart home hub to use the remote features?

No hub required. The Encode has built-in 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi that connects directly to your router. This differs from Schlage’s Connect model (which uses Z-Wave and requires a hub) and Sense model (which needs a separate Wi-Fi bridge for remote access).

Q: What happens if the batteries die?

The lock includes 1-2 backup mechanical keys. Low-battery indicators appear on both the touchscreen and mobile app before complete failure. Battery life averages 6 months, though some users report shorter duration with heavy Wi-Fi use.

Q: Can I create temporary codes for contractors or guests?

Yes. The system supports up to 100 unique 4-8 digit codes. Codes can be created, deleted, and scheduled through the Schlage Home app. The lock integrates with Airbnb and VRBO for automated guest management.