There is no doubt that sometimes there is need for a Yale lock keypad reset. That said, it may not be necessary to reset the lock as often as most users do. Read on to find out what necessitates a reset.
I am the master user of the Yale keypad lock on the main door of our apartment block. When I need to set new user codes for some new tenants, I can’t remember the master code. I need to figure out how to reset the lock.
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Lock reset is a process in which the lock’s system is returned to its original state. It is also referred to as factory reset or master reset. Resetting deletes the existing master PIN code and restores the default one which is 123456. All other programming such as user PIN codes, registered key cards and remote controls are deleted.
When Is a Yale Lock Keypad Reset Necessary?
These are some instances when it is necessary to reset the lock.
Lost Master PIN Code: If the master user loses the master PIN code, a reset is unavoidable. Without it no fresh programming or program updates can be done.
Malfunctioning Lock: When the lock, in one way or another, fails to work as it should, a reset is necessary. A non-responsive keypad is the most common form of malfunctioning.
New Door: If you are re-installing the lock onto a new door with a new master user and new users, it is best to reset the lock. This will allow the new master user set a master PIN code of his/her choice. New users will also be able to set their preferred codes.
How to Reset the Lock to Factory Default Settings
Follow the below steps to reset your Yale lock.
- Press the two buttons on the inside cover of the lock to release it.
- Remove one or all the batteries to ensure there is no power flowing through the lock.
- Press the [R] button and hold it down for a few seconds then re-insert the batteries without releasing the button.
- You will hear 12 distinct beeps followed by a 3 tone ascending beep
- After 10 seconds you will hear a 2 tone beep. This confirms that the master PIN code has been reset to 123456. All user PIN codes, key cards and remotes previously programmed have been deleted.
At this point, setting a master PIN code is the only available option. It must be set to enable any kind of operation.
How to Set a Master PIN Code
- Touch the keypad with the palm of your hand to activate the lock
- Enter the default master PIN code (123456) then press the (#) key
- Once in the lock’s menu, select ‘change master code’
- Enter a new master PIN code.
- You will hear a 3 tone beep and your new code will be illuminated on the screen
- Press the (#) key to complete the process.
This master code is held by a master user. It must be entered to be able to set user PIN codes, register keycards and enable various settings.
Other Default Settings
When the lock is reset, consider re-programming these basic operational features which also revert to factory settings.
Automatic Re-lock time: This is the time it takes for the lock to automatically re-lock after a user successfully unlocks the door. After resetting the lock, the system reverts to an automatic re-lock time of 30 seconds.
One Touch Locking: When the bolt is in a retracted position, the user only needs to activate the lock by touching the screen and the bolt automatically extends into a locked position. This feature is enabled under default settings.
Audio Mode:This feature gives audible code confirmations when programming is being done. It is enabled under default settings but can be disabled if a user is using the lock in a quiet place.
Wrong Code Entry Limit: This is the maximum number of times a user can enter a wrong PIN code before the lock automatically shuts down. After this it does not allow any operation for security reasons. Under default settings, the lock only takes 5 unsuccessful attempts at entering a user PIN code.
Shutdown Time: This is the amount of time given between 5 unsuccessful attempts to enter a correct user PIN code and shutdown. Under factory settings, shutdown time given is 60 seconds.
Final Words
It is safe to say that resetting a lock makes it ‘forget’ every instruction it has ever received. Although it helps to correct problems in a malfunctioning lock, it should be a last resort. This is especially so in cases where the lock is used by many users, all with individual user PIN codes set into the lock’s memory. FrequentYale lock keypad resetscould introduce additional problems because it increases the chances of errors when setting user PIN codes a fresh.
FAQ
Can a Yale lock take 2 master PIN codes? I would like to have 2 master users to avoid inconvenience when one is unavailable.
It can only take one master code. It may be easier to have two people who know the same master code.
Will my Yale lock reset automatically when I change the batteries?
No, battery replacement does not cause a return to default settings.
Will resetting my lock affect handing?
It will re-hand automatically when it comes on again. If you are moving the lock from one door to another, be careful not to install the batteries before you have finished installing the lock. The lock automatically hands itself when the batteries are installed. If the lock is not yet installed, it may hand itself wrongly.
I have had to reset my Yale lock several times in the last month or so. Does this have any negative effect on the lock?
No. The disadvantage associated with resetting of locks is the time and energy one has to spend re-programming the lock.
