Smart locks make accessing your home so much easier. With dedicated apps and personalised security measures, they also have a great potential of keeping you safe and sound. But if you’re still not sold on switching to a smart lock, here are a few reasons why you should.

No more keys

A big reason why a lot of people choose to install a smart lock is the simplicity of it. Never again will you have to rummage for your keys at the front door or miss the bus because your key got stuck in the lock. You also don’t need to worry about losing or forgetting your keys when you leave the house. Smart locks make things simple by avoiding the need for keys altogether.

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Personalised security

Smart locks come with the advantage of having more control over who has access to your home. Not only can you personalise and change your pins and passcodes, but you can choose which type of access code to send to your visitors: a one-time password or unlimited access. You can also allow people to enter your home only at certain times, which is a handy feature if you have arranged for a delivery.

Remote access

If you’ve ever left the house only to start wondering if you locked the front door, smart locks will give you peace of mind. They come with dedicated apps that allow for remote access to your lock and your security system. If your smart lock comes with wi-fi connectivity, an option which is often available as an add-on, you will be able to lock and unlock the door from afar and to double-check if the door has been left open. A downside to this is that wi-fi will drain your smart lock’s batteries faster than a Bluetooth connection.

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Vigilance

Want to know who is coming to your door and what the delivery man is up to? Some smart locks come with an integrated camera, allowing you to see exactly what’s going on.

Variety

While smart locks all function with ‘smart’ technology, different locks come with different options. Some locks open via Bluetooth access, while some require a fingerprint or passcode. A few locks allow for automated unlocking with just a tap on your phone, although it’s important to consider the security risks should your phone be stolen. Further options you can choose between are ‘retrofit’ locks, which fit on top of your existing deadbolt, and locks that entirely replace your old system. If you’re thinking of replacing your deadbolt, make sure that your door is smart lock compatible first.

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Standard key access

Now, despite all of those advantages, you might be thinking that technology breaks down much more easily than a sturdy old deadbolt. Not to worry – most smart locks can still be opened with your designated key. So, if you want the speed and security that comes with a smart lock, but don’t entirely trust the technology, look out for a smart lock with standard key access.

Image courtesy of Kwikset Kevo