According to the FBI, there were an estimated 1.4 million burglaries and break-ins in 2017, with similar numbers in the following years. For those of you good at math, that comes out to almost three burglaries/break-ins every single minute in the USA. This makes break-ins the second most frequently occurring crime (losing out only to larceny-theft).
Let’s face it, in today’s age the need for security is greater than ever before, making finding the right lock for your home increasingly important. Luckily for us, locks are becoming…smarter. That’s right. Smart locks are here and are jam-packed with benefits to serve the needs of both home and business owners alike.
As technology continues to advance, we are finding new and better ways to protect ourselves, our belongings and our assets. Smart locks provide a level of convenience and customization that can’t be had with traditional locking mechanisms, all while not compromising security.
This guide explores the basics of smart locks and why they are a great option for any home or business. By reading this guide, you will become more familiar with the concept of smart locks, as well as be able to understand the types of protection you can expect from these locks.
Smartphone-Friendly Lock Systems
Hands Full? – no problem.
We all know how difficult it can be to reach our keys sometimes. Perhaps you have grocery bags in your hands or are trying to deal with a screaming toddler. Keys can be dropped, lost, or forgotten.
With smart locks, all you have to do is pair your Bluetooth to your deadbolt and you have easy access to your house without a traditional lock and key system. There are other ways to enable a smart lock, as well, but using the Bluetooth on a smartphone offers extra convenience. After all, who does not carry a smartphone these days? You can call the locksmith near you for detailed information and it’s services.
The Ability to Send E-Keys
Did a relative show up early, or are you stuck at the office when someone needs to get in the house? Do you have a vendor visiting your business? With smart locks, you can send an E-key to those who need access to your building.
Situations where you may need an E-key include:
- Renting out your house as a vacation spot and allowing guest access
- Being able to have deliveries set inside your house by Amazon employees
- Allowing potential new owners to tour a house
- Letting a friend relax while they wait for you to come home
- And more…
These E-keys can be deleted as needed. Imagine being able to “duplicate” keys and erase keys without an extra cost to you! Smart locks offer many conveniences, but this may be the best one.
Presence Detection
There are many stories of people getting locked outside their home, whether by themselves or by an unruly kid who did not understand that mommy or daddy cannot get back inside once that lock has been switched.
Smart locks can detect your presence and behave accordingly. There is no more fear of being locked in a building or out of one. The smart lock can also be programmed to recognize others based on their presence, and some smart locks can work together with other home devices to adjust lighting and temperature preferences on an individual basis.
Better Security
There are many ways to pick a lock. The old solution was to come out with a new lock, that would then be cracked for burglars to pick. Today, you can install a smart lock. This keyless entry gives would-be robbers no way to access the deadbolt.
You can also have convenience such as a remote monitoring or tie your smart lock into a full-home or full-office security system. This way, you can receive alerts about suspicious activity.
Convenience for the Disabled or Elderly
There are many people who have difficulty accessing traditional locks.
Some examples include:
- The elderly
- Sufferers of Parkinson’s Disease
- Those with cerebral palsy
- Anyone who needs to wear a wrist brace for carpal tunnel
- Someone having a bad day with fibromyalgia
- And more…
With a smart lock, those who are handicapped with traditional lock and key systems can gain easy access to homes and businesses. It also provides ease of access for those who cannot easily grip a key due to arthritis or other issues.
Your Smart Lock Knows You
Smart locks can utilize technology to identify your physical body. As a part of the “Internet of Things”, a term used to refer to any home device or appliance that can connect to a wireless system, smart locks can interact with other devices in your home to provide a safe and secure environment.
Smart Locks Can Work with Your Existing System or Provide a New One
Some smart locks have the ability to be attached to existing deadbolt systems as an added layer of security. You also have the option of completely replacing your system, allowing the smart lock to serve as the only deadbolt.
There are even models that still include a traditional keyhole for instances where you may need one. With all these options, it is easy to find the smart lock that is perfect for your home or office.
Securing Your Home Remotely
Another benefit to having a smart lock is the ability to lock and unlock your home using an application when you are not even there. You can also check in on your home to make sure it remains secure while you are away.
This can give you extra peace of mind:
- On vacation with the family
- At work, whether a day or night shift
- When the kids are at home alone or with a sitter
- While you run errands
- When guests are using your house
- And more…
A smart lock offers the ability to allow you to check in whenever you need.
There are Multiple Ways to Access a Smart Lock
As previously mentioned, smart locks can use the Bluetooth function on a smartphone. There are, however, other ways to use your smart lock. For instance, if you have an assistant, such as Alexa, you can program some smart locks that way. Other locks are able to utilize a Wi-Fi network to secure your home.
Smart Locks are Available in Many Different Styles
Some smart locks have a futuristic look to them, while others mimic the style of a traditional deadbolt. You can find smart locks based on how they look on your door, whether you want the world to know you have a smart lock, or what shape and size of smart lock you prefer.
Additional Benefits of Smart Locks
Adding a smart lock to your home or business offers many benefits, such as:
- Not having to hide a key outside
- Easy access for updating pins or other security features
- The ability to add and remove E-keys as necessary
Whether you need a residential locksmith or a commercial locksmith, Locksmith on Wheels can help you install your new smart lock.
Offering both residential locksmith and commercial locksmith services, Locksmith on Wheels is the best locksmith service in the California tri-valley area.
Our licensed professionals are able to help with any locksmith services you need, including:
- Re-keys
- Lock installations
- High-security locks
- And more…
One of the best ways to secure your home today is with a smart lock. Let our friendly professionals help you decide on the best smart lock for you and provide quick and efficient installation to secure your home immediately.
Our mobile service will come to you, so call Locksmith on Wheels today for your lock and security needs! Together, we can help secure your home or office to protect your peace of mind.