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A smart lock is a perfect addition to any smart home. The technology can provide a number of advantages compared to the standard lock we all know. But before you make a decision on whether a smart lock is for you, here are a few things to consider before making a purchase.
Find a Model Compatible With Your Smart Home Platform
Whether a smart lock is your first smart home device or just a new addition, the most important aspect before a purchase is making sure that the device is compatible with your smart home platform of choice.
There are currently three major smart home platforms on the market—Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. TheMatter smart home standard is still the future, but for today, you’ll need to have a smart lock compatible with one of those major platforms.
Since your smart lock is compatible with the smart home platform of choice, you can easily see its status on a home control app, and in many cases use your voice to lock or unlock the door. Other great features include using the smart lock as part of an automation with other products. For example, with Apple HomeKit, you can create an automation so that when you unlock your door, compatible lights will turn on as well.
Decide if You Still Want to Still Use Traditional Keys
Another big consideration is whether you want to use traditional keys.
Many buyers look for a smart lock so they can say goodbye to the familiar technology and instead use their smartphone or smartwatch to control the door. So many smart locks on the market use a simple touchpad instead of a lock. That makes the smart lock footprint even smaller. But if you’re still wanting, or needing, to use keys, there are a number of options available.
Do You Want to Keep Your Existing Deadbolt?
You might think that smart locks are only for homeowners because they require you to install a new deadbolt. That’s far from the case.
There are a number of smart locks on the market that allow you to keep your existing deadbolt and use the same keys. Options like the August Smart Lock just require you to change the existing hardware inside the door to add smart lock technology.
Make sure to take a look at othersmart home technology perfect for an apartment or renter.
Be Prepared to Spend Some Time on Installing
Some smart home technology, like a smart plug or smart speaker, takes just a few minutes to install and set up. Installing a smart lock is just a bit more complicated. Expect to spend an hour or more installing a smart lock.
There are a number of steps in the process, most importantly removing the old hardware and replacing it with the new option. You’ll also likely need some basic tools like a screwdriver and drill. Since a lock is such an important part of securing your home, you’ll want to ensure everything is correct. Anyone with basic DIY knowledge should have no problem installing a smart lock, especially if you have a newer home. You might run into issues with an older, non-standard door that has never had a lock change before.
If you’re interested in a smart lock, and don’t feel comfortable installing one, you could likely hire a local handyman to take care of the task. To find out more, see our primer onhow to install a smart door lock for your door.
Choose Your Preferred Way to Interact With a Smart Lock
There are a number of different types of smart lock hardware, so take some time deciding which one is best for your situation.
The most popular type of smart lock features a keypad where you may enter a PIN to lock and unlock the door. But there are many others available on the market. You can find options that only have a fingerprint reader for biometric access and even have a camera that will recognize your face and unlock the door.
Some smart locks, like theLevel Lock+ that I’ve reviewed, are designed to look like a traditional lock. So find the best option that will work for you and everyone in the home.
Understand How to Secure a Smart Lock
Just like any technology, a smart lock isn’t perfect. The good news is that a smart lock is far more secure than a traditional lock. The bad news is that asmart lock can still be hacked. But it’s not something that should keep you up at night, as long as you follow a few standard security protocols.
Always make sure to purchase a smart lock from a known, trusted company. And always keep your smart lock up to date with the most recent firmware. Doing that can help keep your smart lock secure.
Make Sure to Buy a Smart Lock With Remote Access
Smart locks offer a number of features, but in my experience, the must-have is remote access. Basically, that means your smart lock has built-in Wi-Fi or connects to a dedicated Wi-Fi module nearby.
Remote access, as you might have guessed by the name, allows you to control your door from anywhere with internet access on your smartphone, smartwatch, or tablet. It also allows you to give access to others. For example, you can create a specific code for a friend to come in and water the plants while you’re gone.
With many smart locks that are remote access enabled, you can also receive a notification whenever the door is locked or unlocked.
Smart locks are a great choice to improve the security of your home. Now that you know more about technology, hopefully you can make the best purchasing option for your home.
