How Do I Choose a Smart Door Lock ? And Why

You all know about the pure panic that follows when you realize that you forgot to lock your house, especially if you can’t go back to lock it anymore. Even the staunchest alert system is obsolete with an unlocked door, which surprisingly is the most common cause for burglars breaking into homes.

 

Luckily, that isn’t an issue with a smart door lock. You never have to suffer such a situation since you can remotely lock or unlock the smart device at any time. Smart door locks are an extensive topic, with features such as digital security, setup, and costs. This blog discusses choosing a smart door lock and why you need one.

 

How Do I Choose a Smart Door Lock?

 

Say you’re ready to look for a smart door lock. But unlike other remote security devices, smart door locks need a great deal of thought before any purchases. Here are some features to look out for when choosing a smart door lock:

 

Type

 

There are multiple types of smart door locks for you to go through. Here are some of the most common ones out there:

 

• • Deadbolt: Most smart door locks are ideal as a substitute for an existing deadbolt. Deadbolts have different subtypes; they either come with a keypad and a knob, a lever-keypad combo, or a handle, based on your preference.
  • Lever: Locks with rod-shaped levers provide an accessible entrance instead of a regular, round doorknob.
  • Keypad: A smart door lock with a keypad allows you to enter a code for entering the house and letting in other guests.
  • Fob-enabled: Some people prefer having a key fob or key tag with their smart door lock. Instead of entering a code, they swipe the fob over the lock. That still isn’t any different than using a key, but it provides convenience.
  • Biometric: Certain smart door locks let people unlock them via biometrics which uses their fingerprints. You can also share your biometrics digitally with other guests and trusted people. Since fingerprints are unique to everyone, this smart lock type is one of the most secure.

 

Installation

 

Lest you’re getting your lock as part of a professional installation security package, you most likely have to install it yourself. If you’re swapping your deadbolt, the installation can’t be easy. Still, there are several online resources with stepwise instructions. If that still looks too complicated, it could be worthwhile to hire a professional installer, but that’ll involve spending another $100 at the very minimum. Usually, though, it’s ideal to have an installation plan in place before you consider purchasing your smart door lock.

 

Features

 

Now that you know the standard limitations of a smart door lock, the fun can begin. You get to pick from different colors, designs, and first-class features. Here’s a list of features to keep in mind:

 

• • Color: Smart door locks are commonly available in various colors, like bronze, silver, gold, or black. You should get one that blends next to your front door without being flashy since you don’t want to draw attention. But that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on looks!
  • Style: Smart door locks also have various types, from contemporary to traditional and anything in between. We suggest picking one that appears natural with the design of your home and isn’t too apparent from the outside.
  • Temperature range: You should get a smart door lock that can handle the climate of your neighborhood throughout the year. Many devices have hotter temperature ranges, so that shouldn’t be a huge issue, even if you live in extreme temperatures.
  • Locking/unlocking system: Do you wish to open your door using a voice assistant? A keypad? A fob? Or maybe your fingerprints? Regular backup keys? Apps? These queries can regulate what kind of lock you choose.
  • Auto-unlock: Some devices are automatic and lock as you exit your house. That makes your weekday mornings more effortless, but you may want the reassurance you get from manually locking your home.
  • Battery life: Here is an essential consideration for wireless smart door locks. Look for locks that can last from six months to one year, which is the standard in the security market.
  • Power backup: It would be a problem if you couldn’t access your house when the Wi-Fi or power went out, which is a drawback of some smart devices. We suggest getting a smart door lock with power backup if you don’t have a physical key. The power backup could be a cellular, landline, or battery, but be sure that it isn’t dependent on just home power or Wi-Fi.
  • Geofencing: Phones can track your location, so why not make good use of that feature? Some locks allow you to connect your phone’s GPS to their apps so that you can unlock them when you get home and lock them when you leave. Although some users prefer to skip the feature for privacy reasons, that is convenient. It can also unlock doors early, risking home security instead.
  • Access logs: Want to see who came from and went to your home like people keep track of five-star hotels? Some smart door lock apps allow access to records that track your lock activity. So, you can tell if your children came straight home or if they dilly-dallied.
  • Tamper alarms: If any burglars try to turn off your security, you can immediately get an alert with a tamper alarm. So, make sure to get a smart door lock with this feature.
  • Rekeying: Instead of completely changing their locks, some people rekey them. That means you change your lock so that the old key can’t work. Some smart door locks are rekey-compliant.
  • Mobile application: Each smart door lock has an app that allows you to control it remotely, receive activity notifications, and assemble geofencing and smart integrations. Ensure the app has high ratings on the app store before choosing the smart door lock!

 

Costs

 

A smart door lock’s cost can also influence what you choose. Generally, it costs about $115, but there are also some cheap options. We don’t know many smart door locks that cost more than $130, so that’s the ideal cost cap when choosing. Keep installation costs in mind if you plan on getting professional help!

 

Why Should I Choose a Smart Door Lock?

 

Do you need a smart door lock? The answer is yes since everyone can benefit from its convenience and level of security. Generally, these locks suit some people more than others.

 

Homeowners

 

A smart door lock is ideal for you as a homeowner who’s potentially trying to change your existing deadbolt. That is specifically true if you’ve got a family, friends, or guests who require access to your house while it’s empty.

 

With smart door locks, you can also give your guests temporary codes. That way, they can unlock the house without your presence or you hiding a key for them somewhere. Smart door locks are ideal for online deliveries since you can let couriers into your home remotely without dealing with porch piracy issues.

 

Renters

 

Although security deposits make things slightly more complicated, Renters can use smart door locks. Instead, renters should choose a wireless smart door lock that doesn’t need to change their existing lock. We suggest confirming with your landlord before purchasing and setting up a smart door lock. Combine the lock with the best renter security systems for the most benefits.

 

Final Words

 

Unlike other smart devices, smart door locks require more planning and installation. Still, once you get them set up and working, they add more convenience to your life—no need to worry about forgetting to lock the door or losing your keys. Just pick the ideal smart door lock, and you’re good to go! To check out one of our favorite smart door locks, click here.