Smart locks are a relatively new technology taking the home security industry by storm. These smart locks use Bluetooth and/or WiFi to communicate with your phone, allowing you to lock and unlock your door from anywhere, anytime. There are many benefits to having smart locks for your home, but the new technology can also bring some downsides and concerns.
What is a Smart Lock?
Smart locks are smart home accessories that let you secure your home without the need for a physical key. Most smart locks allow you to lock and unlock the door from the smart lock’s corresponding app. Some smart locks can be programmed to automatically lock when you leave the house and unlock when they detect your smartphone being waved in front of it. Others have digital keypads or fingerprint sensors. Many smart locks also have the ability to give a temporary code or “key” to guests that will expire after a certain amount of time.
Smart locks utilize Bluetooth and/or WiFi to communicate with your devices, so it is important to keep your networks secure and use complex passwords.
What Are the Benefits of a Smart Lock?
Smart lock technology offers many benefits for a security-conscious homeowner. If you’re worried about the safety of your house while away from home, smart locks can give you peace of mind by letting you monitor who has entered and exited on a smartphone app. If your smart lock has a built-in camera or is used jointly with a smart doorbell system, you can see who is at your door in real-time. If you ask someone to water your plants or feed your pets while you’re on vacation, you can give them temporary access from your phone without worrying about placing a key under the doormat.
When you’re at home, smart locks can make your life easier too. Say goodbye to fumbling with keys and juggling them while balancing a grocery bag in the other hand—just open your door using the smart lock app on your phone or even with your voice! Additionally, people with limited mobility may find their smart lock to be a helpful alternative to using a physical key.
What Are Some Disadvantages to Smart Locks?
While smart locks are a new and convenient way to enhance your home security, they do have some disadvantages that you should consider before purchasing. If you have questions about smart locks, contact your local home security provider.
- Smart locks can be expensive up front, depending on the make and model
- Smart lock batteries typically need to be replaced every six months to a year
- Smart locks can be difficult to get used to if you or someone in your home is not tech savvy
- If you lose your phone or it runs out of battery while you’re not home, you may be out of luck if you don’t have a backup plan in place
- Smart lock technology is still being developed and perfected, and can be expected to have glitches from time to time
Do you have a smart lock or are you considering one? We want to know what you think! Tag us on Twitter or Instagram @WhirLocal and join the discussion.