Everything you need to know before installing a smart lock

But before you decide if a smart lock is right for you, here are some things to consider before buying.

Find a model that's compatible with your smart home platform

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Whether a smart lock is your first smart home device or just a new one, the most important aspect before purchasing is making sure that the device is compatible with the smart home platform of your choice.

There are currently 3 main smart home platforms on the market - Google Home, Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit. The Matter smart home standard is still the future, but for now, you'll need a smart lock that's compatible with one of those major platforms.

Because the smart lock is compatible with the smart home platform of your choice, you can easily view the lock's status on the home control app, and in many cases, you can use your voice to lock it. or unlock the door. Other great features include using smart locks as part of automation with other products. For example, with Apple HomeKit, you can create an automation so that when you unlock the door, compatible lights will also turn on.

Decide if you want to use a traditional key or not

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Another big consideration is whether or not you want to use a traditional key.

Many buyers look for a smart lock so they can say goodbye to the familiar traditional lock and instead use their smartphone or smartwatch to control the door. Many smart locks on the market use simple touchpads instead of locks. That makes the size of the smart lock even smaller. But if you still want or need to use a key, there are several options available.

Do you want to keep your current door latch intact?

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You might think that smart locks are only for homeowners because they require you to install a new deadbolt. But that is absolutely not true.

There are several smart locks on the market that allow you to keep your current deadbolt and use the same key. Options like August Smart Lock only require you to change the existing hardware inside the door to add smart lock technology.

Be sure to look into other smart home technologies that are perfect for apartments or renters.

Be prepared to spend time installing!

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Some smart home technology, like smart plugs or smart speakers, only takes a few minutes to install and set up. Installing a smart lock is a bit more complicated. Expect it to take an hour or more to install.

There are several steps in the process, the most important being removing the old hardware and replacing it with the new option. You may also need some basic tools like screwdrivers and drills. Since locks are an important part of home security, you'll want to make sure everything is correct. Anyone with basic DIY knowledge should have no problem installing a smart lock, especially if they have a new home. You may have problems with an old, non-standard door that has never had its locks changed before.

If you are interested in a smart lock and don't feel comfortable installing it, you can hire a local repairman to do the job.

Choose how you prefer to interact with your smart lock

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There are several different types of smart lock hardware, so take your time to decide which one is best for your situation.

The most common type of smart lock has a keypad where you can enter a PIN code to lock and unlock the door. But there are many other types available in the market. You can find options that only have a fingerprint reader for biometric access, and even have cameras that will recognize faces and unlock the door.

Some smart locks, like Level Lock+, are designed to look like a traditional lock. So find the best option that works for you and everyone in the house.

Lesley Montoya

Update 24 August 2024