We’ve all been there: you’re just stepping outside to take out the trash, or grab the newspaper off your lawn when you realize – you forgot your keys inside. But what if you could avoid moments like these, as well as the hours spent waiting for a locksmith? It’s possible with a smart lock, a keyless way to lock and unlock the doors to your home. If you’ve never considered automating your home entryway before, you might be wondering what type of smart lock is right for you. Luckily, there are some key features that you can look out for to help you select the perfect smart lock.
How Do Smart Locks Work?
Smart locks operate using compact technology stored within the gearbox of their automated deadbolt mechanisms. They’re typically powered by batteries stored within the deadbolt themselves, keeping them small and out of sight. Once you’ve installed your smart lock, you’ll be able to operate it via your phone; in most cases, smart locks utilize wifi or Bluetooth to pair with your electronics in order to lock and unlock. Bluetooth smart locks tend to allow for more freedom when using keyless entry, as you don’t have to worry about ensuring a stable internet connection in order to use them. Once your phone is paired with your lock, you’ll be able to download an app that you’ll create a profile on in order to operate it. Through the app, you can set up your lock’s various features. You can also pair most smart locks with automated home management systems, like Apple HomeKit, which allow you to utilize voice commands to lock and unlock.
Key Smart Lock Features
Here are some key (no pun intended) smart lock features that make automated entry a worthwhile upgrade for your home:
Auto Lock
With some smart locks, you can easily program your door to auto lock after a certain period of time after it’s been unlocked. This way, you don’t have to stress about whether or not you locked the door after you came in late at night, and can rest easy knowing your home is secure. Most keyless entry systems that have an auto lock feature also have auto unlock capabilities that will unlock your home when your phone pairs with the lock.
Touch to Unlock
Another great technologically advanced feature that smart locks offer is touch to unlock. This means you can open your door literally with the touch of a finger. No more struggling to get your keys out of your pockets when coming home carrying bags from the grocery store. Just enable touch to unlock on your keyless entry system, and tap your lock for an easy entry. It’s important to note that once you’ve utilized touch to unlock, your smart lock won’t allow the feature to be utilized until after you leave your lock’s bluetooth range and return again. This ensures that your lock won’t open if it’s touched accidentally while you’re home.
Digital Keys for Family and Friends
When you’ve got a full house, it’s a hassle to have enough keys on hand to go around. With a smart lock, you’ll avoid the need for getting key copies, and instead, can assign guest digital keys to anyone who needs them via an app. This makes it easy for family members on different schedules to come and go without needing a physical key with them.
Additionally, guest passes are great for home employees you may have, like a dog walker or housekeeper who come throughout the week. Depending on your automated entry system’s capabilities, you can even specify access times and dates for certain guests, allowing them to come in and out during the business hours you’ve outlined.
If you’re having a party, you can make a specific digital key to send to all of your guests along with your invite. This makes it simple for your party pals to enter without you having to be on door duty for the whole affair.
Keypads for Additional Ease
Some smart locks come with compatible keypads that you can install to further upgrade your keyless entry system. With a keypad, you can program a specific digit-based code for any guest without having them have to use a physical key or download the app to enter. Keypads are a great option for those who rent their homes on home-sharing sites like Airbnb, as they allow short-term guests to enter without the host having to be on site.
Smart locks provide homeowners with the ultimate combination of security and ease thanks to their keyless entry features. There are a variety of ways to utilize an automated door lock: from touch to unlock options for when your hands are full, to app passes and keypads that you can give to your family members and guests, there’s a perfect way to welcome everyone you hold dear into your home. What smart lock features do you plan on utilizing the most?
