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Are you thinking of adding a smart lock to your door? If so, this article can help you make an informed decision when choosing from the long list of options available on the market.
A smart lock will not only provide your home with an added layer of security, but will also save you a lot of time when going in or out. Additionally, most smart locks have amazing features that you will find helpful in different scenarios.
According to a burglary report by Savvy, 4% of Australian homes experienced attempted breaks in or were broken into between 2019 and 2020. Adding a smart lock to your door is one of the most effective security measures that you take to safeguard your home against burglary.
But first, you need to find the best smart lock for your door. Continue reading to learn more about smart locks, how they work, and how you can choose the most ideal lock for your door.
Click here to have a look at our list of best smart locks that you can buy in Australia once you are done reading this piece.
What is a Smart Lock?
A smart lock is an advanced electromechanical locking system that can be operated wirelessly from an authorised device. However, some smart locks use biometrics and key cards. Most smart locks utilise Bluetooth or Wi-Fi technology, so you can choose the one that matches your preference and budget.
Unlike traditional locking systems, smart locks do not require a physical key. Instead, they can be unlocked and locked using digital keys and keypad codes. The best thing about owning a smart lock is that you can operate them even when you are several metres away from your home.
With a smart lock, you won’t have to worry about anything in case you forget to lock your door. You can easily engage the lock with the push of a button for peace of mind. Depending on your needs, you can use a smart lock as a stand-alone device and can as well pair it with the existing lock system in your home.
Some of these units may require you to make a few modifications during installation, so ensure that you choose wisely. To add to this, some models of smart locks can accurately monitor who leaves or enters your home, thus making it easy to detect burglars.
Choosing the Best Smart Lock for Your Door
Not all smart locks are built equal. They vary when it comes to security rating and also utilise different locking technologies. Here are some of the factors that you should keep in mind when choosing a smart lock:
Door Type
The first thing that you need to take into consideration is the type of door that you want to secure. As we’ve just said, smart locks have varying features, so what works on one door may not be as reliable on another door.
With this in mind, you should make it your goal to pick a lock that is specifically designed for a given door type. There are smart locks that only work best when used on bedroom doors, while most can securely lock your front door. You can also find smart locks that can fit your garage door, so it all depends on your needs.
Type of Smart Lock
To find the best smart lock for your door, you need to familiarise yourself with the different types that are there. This will not only make your work easier during the selection process, but also ensures you choose the right product. Below are the common types of smart locks that you can go for:
1. Wireless/Keyless Smart Locks
As earlier stated, most wireless smart locks on the market use either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. A few of these units use the Z-Wave protocol, which is just as reliable as the aforementioned options.
To use this type of smart lock, you’ll need a smartphone that is compatible with the protocol that you intend to use. Such locks can be connected to your device via an app that will give you access to all the available functions of the lock system.
2. Keypad Smart Locks
As the name implies, this type of smart lock features a numerical keypad that will help you lock or unlock your door by keying in the correct security code. Some models are fitted with physical keypads, while others have touchscreens.
3. Biometric Smart Locks
With a biometric smart lock, you’ll have to use your fingerprint to gain access to your home. And because each person’s fingerprint is unique, it’s very difficult for other people to get into your house.
If you prefer biometric smart locks, ensure that you buy one from a trusted brand to avoid false rejections when scanning your fingerprint.
4. Key Card Smart Locks
This type of smart lock comes with a digital key card that you can place on the lock scanner when unlocking or locking your door. The only problem with key card smart locks is that anyone with the key card can access your home. To add to this, you won’t be able to unlock your door if you lose the card.
5. Combination Smart Locks
Combination smart locks are probably the best because they can be operated using different methods. Most combination smart locks are fitted with biometric systems and keypads, allowing you to use either option when locking or unlocking your door.
Are Smart Locks Secure?
Yes, smart locks are very secure. Unlike traditional locks that can easily be picked, smart locks use advanced locking systems that burglars are unlikely to access.
When using a keypad smart lock, ensure that you choose a complex combination code. In addition to this, you should only share your passcode with those within your household.
Conclusion
A smart lock can be an excellent addition to your home’s security system. They are not only convenient but also more reliable compared to regular door locks. Best of all, a smart lock will allow you to lock your door wirelessly even when you are not close to your home.
