Smart technology provides us with untold levels of convenience and peace of mind. Home security has recently joined the “smart” conversation, meaning that automating your home security just became easier than ever.

Note that smart home security isn’t limited to costly automated home systems. Smart locks, designed to secure your front, back and side doors, are sophisticated and reliable additions to your home’s security system.

However, given the plethora of options available, the team at ABC Locksmith wants our customers to know what to look for when shopping for a smart lock. This article will 1) tell you how to spot a reliable smart lock and 2) explain the major considerations to think about when investing in this very helpful technology.

Understanding Smart Locks and How to Find the Right One for You

Smart locks allow homeowners to lock and unlock their doors from anywhere, usually using a paired smartphone app. While this measure of convenience and added security is certainly a welcome addition to any home, it’s important to consider the cost of the smart lock and to make sure it will fit on the door it is meant to secure.

Preliminary Research and Testing

One of the best steps you can take is to download the app for the lock you’re considering purchasing. The apps typically include instructions for installing the locks on various types of doors, so use these instructions as references for determining whether a smart lock will work for your door.

After determining whether a compatible smart lock exists for your door, it’s time to inspect the door’s construction to make sure there won’t be any issues.

Search the door, hinges, frame and existing strike plates for any signs of damage, warping or other wear and tear. Smart locks will engage the locking bolt automatically, so you need to be certain the bolt can fully extend into the door jamb. If the bolt hole in the door jamb is not deep enough, the smart lock may still try to fully extend the bolt, damaging the lock motor or the door itself.

Finding the Right Features

Not all smart locks are developed with equal standards. Some have features like proximity unlocking, keyless entry codes and even touch response. You may also want a smart lock that records all door opening events for added security. Take the time to explore your options and compare a few models that have the features you want.

Bear in mind that while some smart locks may offer futuristic perks such as keyless entry and proximity sensing, you may need to pay for the locks to respond to other people in your home. For example, the Kwikset Kevo smart lock works very well when paired with a smartphone, but everyone in the house will need to download the app. After the first two users, you will have to pay for each additional “eKey.”

Security System Integration

Many smart locks can integrate with your existing smart home technology. If you can find a smart lock that is compatible with an existing home security system, investigate customer feedback to determine how reliably the lock integrates or if there are any known issues with your existing home security system.

Some smart locks such as those made by August and Schlage can integrate with platforms like the Apple HomeKit. With this platform, you can use your iPhone’s Siri voice recognition to unlock your doors with voice commands.

Other smart locks allow you to remotely unlock your doors, so when a neighbor stops in to feed your pets while you’re away on business, for example, you can simply touch a button on the smartphone app to let them into your home, then lock the door remotely after they leave.

Consult the Professionals

If you’re considering a smart lock for your home but feel overwhelmed by all the options or aren’t quite sure if a smart lock is a wise addition, contact the team at ABC Locksmith. We would be happy to inspect your door and home security system to look for any potential conflicts with the smart lock you wish to purchase.

We also provide recommendations for smart locks based on the feedback we get from our customers. Our experienced staff can help you find the smart lock with the features you need at an acceptable price. We can help with installation and setup too. Give us a call anytime.

(727)-314-1010