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Device Lock (Child Lock)

  • Updated

This guide shows you how to enable or disable the device lock feature (child lock) on Ally eTRVs to prevent manual adjustments on the physical device.

Understanding Device Lock

Device lock (called "Child lock" in the Ally App) prevents manual adjustments on the physical device. When enabled, the eTRV's buttons are disabled, preventing accidental or unauthorized temperature changes.

Note: Device lock only applies to Ally eTRV devices. Gateways, Repeaters, and Room Sensors don't have physical controls to lock.

When device lock is enabled:

  • Physical buttons on the eTRV don't respond
  • Temperature can only be changed via Leanheat Monitor or Ally App
  • Display still shows current temperature and status
  • Lock icon appears on eTRV display

When device lock is disabled:

  • Users can manually adjust temperature using eTRV buttons
  • Manual changes may override scheduled setpoints temporarily
  • Changes made on device sync to Leanheat Monitor
  • Full control available at the device

When to Enable Device Lock

💡 Recommended use cases:

  • Public buildings: Schools, libraries, offices where users shouldn't adjust temperatures
  • Rental properties: Short-term rentals, hotels, dormitories
  • Common areas: Lobbies, hallways, shared spaces
  • Energy management: Buildings with strict energy budgets
  • Testing period: New installations during commissioning
  • Vandalism prevention: High-traffic areas with tampering risk
  • Standardized operations: Facilities requiring uniform temperature control

When to Disable Device Lock

Recommended use cases:

  • Private residences: Owner-occupied apartments or houses
  • Long-term rentals: Where tenants expect temperature control
  • Individual offices: Where occupants should control their space
  • Accessibility needs: Where manual control is easier for some users
  • Guest comfort: Hotels or rentals emphasizing guest autonomy
  • Testing/troubleshooting: During maintenance or diagnosis

Enabling Device Lock

Step 1: Check Current Status

  1. Go to Device Administration
  2. Click on an eTRV device
  3. View the Properties tab
  4. Check current "Device lock" status in the Readouts section

In this example, device lock is currently "Disabled" in both Leanheat Monitor and Ally App.

Step 2: Enable Device Lock

  1. Click the edit icon (pencil)
  2. Click General tab
  3. Find the Device lock toggle switch
  4. Click the toggle to turn it ON
  5. Click Save

Step 3: Verify Change

The device lock status changes to "Enabled" in both Leanheat Monitor and Ally App within a few seconds. The physical eTRV buttons no longer respond to presses.

You can verify by:

  • Checking the Properties tab (status shows "Enabled")
  • Checking the Ally App (shows "Child lock: On")
  • Testing physical buttons on the eTRV (they shouldn't respond)
  • Looking for lock icon on eTRV display

Disabling Device Lock

To give users manual control of the device:

  1. Access the device's General settings (see steps above)
  2. Click the Device lock toggle to turn it OFF
  3. Click Save

The status changes to "Disabled" and the eTRV's physical buttons become active again. The lock icon disappears from the display.

Bulk Device Lock Operations

To enable or disable device lock for multiple eTRVs at once:

Note: Device lock bulk operations are not currently available in the Bulk Operation menu. You must configure device lock individually for each eTRV.

Workaround for multiple devices:

  1. Create a device filter for the eTRVs you want to update
  2. Use the filter to quickly navigate between devices
  3. Enable/disable lock on each device individually

Device Lock and Manual Overrides

Understanding how device lock interacts with temperature control:

Lock Enabled:

  • Physical buttons completely disabled
  • Temperature changes only via Leanheat Monitor or Ally App
  • Schedules execute normally
  • Remote control fully functional

Lock Disabled:

  • Users can press buttons on eTRV to adjust temperature
  • Manual changes create temporary overrides
  • Next schedule period restores scheduled setpoint
  • Manual changes visible in Leanheat Monitor

Device Lock Policy Recommendations

For Facility Managers:

  • Document device lock policy in building operations manual
  • Communicate policy to building occupants
  • Provide alternative method for comfort complaints (e.g., helpdesk)
  • Review policy seasonally based on feedback

For Property Managers:

  • Consider tenant expectations and lease agreements
  • Balance energy goals with tenant satisfaction
  • Enable lock in common areas, consider disabling in units
  • Include device lock status in lease documentation

Troubleshooting

Problem: Device Lock Won't Enable

Check device is online and syncing. Verify it's an eTRV (lock not available on Gateways, Repeaters, Sensors). Try refreshing the page and attempting again. Check integration is enabled. Verify device firmware is up to date.

Problem: Physical Buttons Still Work Despite Lock Enabled

Wait 5-10 minutes for setting to sync to device. Check battery level (low battery can cause sync issues). Verify "Enabled" status shows in both Leanheat Monitor and Ally App. Try disabling and re-enabling the lock. Check for firmware update availability.

Problem: Users Complaining About Locked Devices

Review device lock policy and communication. Consider disabling lock for specific units based on feedback. Provide clear instructions on requesting temperature adjustments. Ensure helpdesk can respond quickly to comfort requests.

Problem: Lock Status Shows Incorrectly

Refresh Leanheat Monitor page. Check Ally App for current status. Verify device is online and syncing. Try toggling lock off and on again.

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