Smart locks is electronic devices that allow a person to secure there door using digital methods instead of metal keys. Many person choose to use smart locks for there doors because they offer alternative method of entering a home without utilizing a metal key. There are different type of smart locks, and it is important to be aware of the differences between each type to make an informed decision about which smart lock to use.
There are two main type of smart locks: retrofit and full replacement smart locks. Retrofit smart locks are devices that a person can install over the existing deadbolt on a door, meaning that they doesnt require any changes to the exterior of the door. This type of smart lock is helpful for individuals who rent there homes because they can easily remove the smart lock if they need to move into a new home.
How to Choose a Smart Lock
Full replacement smart locks works by replacing the entire lock on a door and provide new weather sealing and a new keypad for the door. Both types of locks can usually be installed with a screwdriver, but the installation for a full replacement smart lock will be more extensive than the retrofit smart lock installation. Smart locks can be accessed in a variety of different ways.
The methods for unlocking a smart lock include fingerprint scanner, keypads, and mobile applications. Fingerprint scanners can read a person’s fingerprint in less than one second and can store the fingerprints of numerous individual. Keypads allow the homeowner to enter a code into the keypad to gain access to the door and provide the ability to enter temporary code for guests.
Mobile applications provides remote access to a smart lock through a persons smartphone and provide logs of the activities that occur with the lock. Most smart locks also include a physical keyway in case the electronic component of the lock should fail. When you are selecting a smart lock for your door, there are a variety of factor to consider in order to ensure that you select the correct product.
Security grade indicate the amount of physical force that is required to open the lock, and the higher the grade of the smart lock, the more physical force that is required to open the lock. Wi-Fi is one communication protocol that allow the lock to connect to the internet, but uses battery power to do so. Bluetooth uses less battery power than Wi-Fi, but only works when the phone is near the smart lock.
Both Z-Wave and Zigbee protocols require a central hub to connect to the smart lock, but provide a stable connection for smart home automation. Battery life is another of the main consideration for any smart lock. Most smart locks use standard battery packs that will last for several month.
However, the longer that the battery last will depend upon the communication protocol that is used. Wi-Fi smart locks will require you to change the batteries more often than Bluetooth smart locks. Most smart locks can have their batteries recharged via a USB cable, and will send a notification to the owners phone if the battery power is low.
Smart locks also include a variety of automated feature to provide convenience and security to the lock. For instance, auto lock features will automatically engage the bolt after a period of time. Tamper alerts will notify the owner if someone is being force to open the lock, and wrong code lockouts will prevent the user from entering the wrong code too many times.
Geofencing will automatically unlock the lock when the smart lock detects that the owner is approaching the smart lock. Finally, activity logs will record every use of the smart lock and display which code or fingerprint was used to unlock the door. When choosing a smart lock, you must consider your need and budget.
If you want to save money, consider retrofit or keypad smart locks. If you want high level of convenience, look for a smart lock with a fingerprint scanner. Make sure the smart lock will physically fit your door and that it is compatible with your smart home hub.
Finally, always purchase a smart lock that comes with a physical key in case the technology fail to work. You should of checked the compatability first. It is alot of work but it helps.