Here’s How to Get the Smart Lock that’s Right for Your Home

Innovative smart locks are becoming increasingly popular with homeowners. Security and remote accessibility are two key drivers, but so is convenience. Instead of worrying about where you lost your keys, a smart lock allows you to lose your keys for good—and still enjoy easy, secure access to your home. If you're considering an upgrade to a digital door lock, here's how to find one that fits your needs.

Smart Lock Benefits

A keyless door lock means no more fumbling in pockets or purses while trying to carry groceries or wrangle kids and pets at the front door. A smart door lock can offer remote access for delivery people and can allow you to create temporary access codes for guests. Plus, with smart integration you can connect to your Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa or other voice assistant for convenient voice-controlled operation.

Types of Smart Locks

When it comes to finding the right smart lock, it's a not a one-size-fits-all solution. Here are some of the different types of smart door locks to consider:

Deadbolt

A smart deadbolt lock replaces (or enhances) a traditional deadbolt lock. It may have a keypad with a knob, a keypad with a lever, or keypad with a handle.

Lever Smart Lock

A lever style smart lock features a sturdy, cylindrical lever handle that is easier to grip and operate than spherical door handles. It can be especially beneficial for elderly people and people with physical disabilities.

Keypad Smart Lock

A keypad smart lock allows you and your guests entry via a combination instead of a physical key. The entry code can be changed as needed to help keep your home secure.

Key Fob Smart Lock

This option requires waving or swiping a fob over your smart lock. Key fob smart locks are quicker and more convenient than keys, and they eliminate the need to enter code numbers by hand.

Biometric Smart Lock

Also called a fingerprint door lock, this secure option uses biometrics to gain entry and can store multiple fingerprint scans for family and guest acces

Retro-fitting vs. Replacing

When transitioning to smart door locks, it's possible to add connectivity to your existing deadbolt without replacing it. This may be ideal for renters or anyone not wanting to change keys. A retrofit smart lock easily clamps over your current deadbolt so you can continue using existing keys as needed. However, most smart locks are designed to replace your deadbolt. Before you remove your old lock and install your new smart deadbolt, be sure your door is smart-lock compatible. It should be properly aligned to allow for full extension of the deadbolt and thick enough to accommodate the lock you choose.

Smart Lock Protocol Options

A big part of what makes your new lock "smart," is the operating protocol—the type of connectivity technology used to operate your keyless door lock. Contenders include:

Bluetooth

This popular wireless data transfer method doesn't require a hub and uses very little energy, resulting in fewer battery changes. A Bluetooth door lock does have a smaller range than some protocols, which can be a disadvantage for remote unlocking.

Wi-Fi

Connecting to your home's Wi-Fi is a convenient option that gives you easy remote access and doesn't require an additional hub. Potential drawbacks of a Wi-Fi door lock include loss of connectivity due to outages and the need for more frequent battery changes.

Z-Wave

Wireless Z-Wave technology is a low-power option that won't bog down your Wi-Fi. A communication protocol used primarily in smart home devices, Z-Wave door locks require an additional hub, but use less power than Wi-Fi and offer a longer range than Bluetooth.

ZigBee

ZigBee smart locks also connect to a hub. This open-source protocol is free to use, but all ZigBee devices may not be compatible as manufacturers are able to write their own software. While similar to Z-Wave, ZigBee connectivity is slower and offers less range.

Smart Lock Features

There are several things to consider when purchasing your new smart lock. From basics like colour to more advanced features like sensors and access logs, here's what to look for:

Style & Colour

Smart locks come in a range of styles to suit your home—from sleek and modern to ornate and traditional. Black, nickel, bronze and gold finishes are versatile colours that can complement your existing door hardware.

Mobile Apps

A mobile app allows you to control your lock remotely, so be sure your smart lock's app is user-friendly by reviewing ratings from existing users.

Scheduled Access Codes

A great option if you have frequent guests or deliveries, this feature allows you to create scheduled key codes that only work for specific times.

Auto-Unlock

If you're tired of fumbling for keys, a smart lock that uses your phone's wireless protocol to automatically unlock as you approach is a convenient timesaver.

Door Sensor

A door sensor can provide peace of mind by alerting you when your door is open, closed, locked, or unlocked.

Knock to Unlock

A novel feature available with some smart locks allows you to "knock" on the lock's image in the app to unlock your door.

Battery Life / Power Backup

Power backup prevents you from losing access to your home in a power or internet outage. You'll also want a wireless smart lock with a battery life of at least six months.

Access Log

This feature helps keep track of comings and goings by providing a detailed log of every time your door is locked or unlocked.

Tamper Alarm

For enhanced security, this alarm alerts you instantly if someone is attempting to tamper with your smart lock.

3rd Party Integration

Seamless third-party integration makes your smart home even smarter. For the safety of your family and your property, you need your new smart lock to operate effectively while your security system is armed (and vice versa). Hands-free control of your Bluetooth door lock via Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri also helps increase the ease and efficiency of your home security.

Smart Lock Safety Tips

While smart door locks can provide peace of mind and convenience, these safety tips are key: 

• Choose difficult-to-guess access codes for combination smart locks 

• Change batteries as needed to prevent losing power 

• Keep your smartphone locked so your smart lock's mobile app cannot be accessed by unauthorized users 

• Use a PIN with voice commands if your lock is connected to a voice assistant 

• Create individual codes to keep track of who is entering/exiting your home 

• Use scheduling to limit access for guests, tradespeople, dogwalkers etc. 

• Keep up with software and firmware updates for your smart lock and mobile app

Whether you're looking to retrofit your existing deadbolt or upgrade to a whole new lock, smart locks offer a whole new level of security and convenience. Consider the features and options that work best for both your home and your lifestyle.