What is a smart lock?
Whether it is phones, TV, cars or home, it seems everything these days is getting smart. So, how could be locks far behind. But what is a smart lock? It basically means a lock that doesn’t require a regular physical key to lock or unlock your door. These systems sync with your smart phone to offer you more access control and convenience.
For example, using a smart lock you would be able to lock and unlock your doors from a remote location or even allow your friends or family to use these “digital keys”. You don’t have to be physically present to manage access. It saves you the hassle of using a key when your hands aren’t free or when you need to let someone in when you aren’t home. And you don’t need to constantly worry about whether you have lost your key somewhere. In addition, there is no need to keep a spare key or hand over your extra keys to family, friends, maintenance people or babysitters, hence more control of who all have access to your home. What’s even better that some models also work with a traditional key in additional of ‘virtual keys’. In a nutshell, smart locks are the future of home security.
What are my options?
When it comes to buying a smart lock, there are plenty of options on the market these days. You can choose from Schlage, Kwikset, Yale and August. All these brands offer a range of options with different features and functionalities and they can either supplement of replace your existing deadbolt altogether.
These systems work by communicating with your phone or other elements in your smart home setup. This communication is typically done by using any of these three technologies; Bluetooth, Z-Wave and Wi-Fi.
- Bluetooth enabled locks
A low battery life is not so much an issue with Bluetooth locks as this is the most battery-friendly version. Batteries can last more or less up to one year without having to be changed. The other good news is these locks connects directly with your smart phone. However, it offers lesser range than other technologies and there is always a fear of lost connection if you exceed that range. Secondly, this technology doesn’t make it easy to connect to third-party devices, unlike our next option which is Z -wave.
- Z-Wave enabled locks
These types of locks require a special hub to connect your devices, so make sure to take that into account when you’re pricing these out. However, once you have the hub set up, it be easier to connect to your smart home hub and other integrated devices than locks using Bluetooth technology.
- Wi-Fi enabled locks
Locks communicating with this technology utilizes your home’s internet connection to connect to your smart phone. It connects to your Wi-Fi router with no additional set up required. It offers many advantages. You can manage access from a remote location. You receive emails or text message when someone access your property, allowing for easy tracking and monitoring through your phone or your computer form anywhere.
Biometric locks
Biometric locks are another great option if you want to go keyless. It uses a person’s physical characteristics like finger prints or iris scan to recognize and allow access. You don’t need to worry about a forgotten password or lost keys anymore. Most models will give you an option of using a regular, old fashioned key. This comes handy if there is any technical failure or if the battery dies.
These devices can store the biometric details of other people (like your friends, family or someone you want to give access to). You can easily delete this information if you no longer want someone having access to your home.
Benefits of smart locks
- Enhanced level of security
- Convenience of getting access without fumbling with a bunch of keys
- No more stress of a lost key or lockout situation where you could be stranded out of your home
- Easy integration with other smart devices in your home for a better control
Keep in mind that some smart locks work with your existing deadbolts but other might require a fresh installation. If you need a locksmith to upgrade your home security system and install a smart lock, call Racine’s Lock & Key at (262) 509-0366.