Smart locks are the future of home security. They come with so many amazing functions and abilities that make your home safer and a more convenient place to live. That is why we have put together this guide to help you understand how you can fit your smart locks and use some of their greatest features.
Choose the Right Smart Lock for Your Home
When choosing the Smart Lock for your home, you will want to consider your needs.
If you still wish to use regular keys, you can choose a bolt-on smart lock. These locks bolt onto your original deadbolt, literally clamping in place over the top of your deadbolt lock. This is known as a retrofit smart lock. They come with limited capabilities but allow you to keep your keys.
Other smart lock designs replace your whole lock. It removes the chance of anyone gaining entry to your home by picking the lock, but it also eliminates the option of you keeping and using your keys.
Smart Functions
You will also need to consider whether you want your smart lock to function via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Z wave.
- Bluetooth has a longer battery life but works over shorter distances. In addition, a Bluetooth lock can connect directly to your phone or tablet.
- Wi-Fi locks work on long-range (some Bluetooth locks come with a Wi-Fi option). They give you the most options for extra features, such as connecting to the Amazon Alexa or the Google assistant. However, wi-fi locks drain the lock batteries quicker than Bluetooth.
- Z-Wave Locks require their own hubs. In addition, some come with their own apps. However, if you are a fan of third-party apps and the variety of options that come with them, Z-Wave is the one for you as it works better than the others when dealing with third parties.
Installing a Smart Locks
Once you have chosen the lock for your home, you need to install it. There are two options here. One is for a clamp-on retrofit style smart lock, and the other is for a total lock replacement.
Every lock will vary in instructions. Some locks come with apps that walk you through the installation process. For other locks, you will need to refer to the manuals. This guide will provide you with an overall basic idea.
Retrofit Smart Locks
- Remove the side of the deadbolt lock where you want to mount your smart lock. (Normally on the inside of the door).
- Screw the mounting plate into place.
- Choose the appropriate adaptor (August smart locks) and place it in the center of your plate.
- Attach your smart lock.
- Place batteries inside your smart lock.
- Attach the smart lock to your app.
Full Smart Locks
If attaching a full smart lock to your door, you will need more tools, like a drill.
- Start by removing your old lock.
- Your smart lock will come with a size and specifications guide that you can use to measure where your holes need to be.
- Ensure you drill all holes straight and remove any debris and sawdust from inside the holes.
- Insert and fix latch into place.
- Inset a door sensor into your door.
- Work out which handle goes on which side of your door.
- Fit the internal handle and connect your wires.
- Connect the cable to your external handle, then mount your exterior handle.
- Ensure your latch and clutch fit together before fixing with screws.
- Install your batteries into your handles.
- Test that your latch retracts when you move the handles.
- Install your door jam and door jamb sensor.
- Program your lock via your app, phone, or Wi-Fi.
Connecting Your Smart Locks
After installing your smart lock, you will want to connect it to your other smart home technology. Everything can be from your phone and laptop to an Alexa or Siri.
For a start, your lock may have come with an app. Sometimes, you need to download, or you may need to type in a key to a specific website. Either way, many smart locks come with a QR code to make it easy to find what you need.
After finding the app or appropriate web page, you will have the opportunity to follow step-by-step guides that will help you connect your new smart technology to your phone or alternative device. You will also be able to connect your door to:
- Doorbell cameras
- Alarm Systems.
- Alexa, Siri, or similar voice-activated software.
Ask the Professionals
If technology has its way of confusing you are causing you undue stress, we are here to help. In this day and age, a locksmith does not only copy keys, but we can also help you install your smart lock technology!
We know that installing a lock can be tricky, especially when you need to pull out a drill and make your own cuts into a door. So, if you would like some assistance in installing your smart lock security, call us at Wynwood Lock Services at 786-358-6116. We are available 24/7 throughout Miami.