6 minute read
many smart locks allow you to program more than 50 fingerprints and over 200 different access codes.
schlage
if you’ve found yourself at your door juggling grocery bags, boxes and baby while fruitlessly searching your pockets for those darn keys, smart locks can get you in. they work through a bluetooth or wi-fi connection using an app on a smartphone or via integrated home security systems or devices like google nest, amazon echo or apple’s homekit to unlock your door hands-free.
not only can you go completely keyless, you can program these handy devices to generate a temporary code for guests, deliveries, housecleaners, dog-walkers and other services. they also take the worry out of wondering if you locked the door or left it ajar. they even maintain an activity log so you can check on your home remotely.
most smart locks work with the lock you already have or you can get a complete deadbolt that you can easily install yourself (more complicated devices might need a pro).
unlock the right lock for the right door
there are tons of types of smart locks for any kind of door that will operate via pin codes, fingerprint scans, wi-fi, smartphone apps, or keypads. some locks allow you to program more than 50 fingerprints and over 200 different access codes. set up is done using a separate app or on the lock itself.
the new york times’ wirecutter reviewers, consumer reports, popular mechanics and even mike holmes named schlage as a top pick for its reliability, ease of installation and use, as well as its heavy metal encasing with the ability to withstand 250,000 cycles and 10 door strikes with a hammer (?!).
“today’s smart locks use a combination of technologies,” says katherine tmej, marketing manager for security company allegion, schlage’s manufacturer. “bluetooth provides a reliable local connection, wi-fi lets you manage your locks remotely, and newer technologies that are matter-certified (meaning they work across different brands and platforms like apple home, google home and amazon alexa) help improve connectivity across the smart devices in your home.”
there are tons of types of smart locks for any kind of door that will operate via pin codes, fingerprint scans, wi-fi, smartphone apps, or keypads.
schlage
advertisement
she says the new schlage sense pro smart deadbolt, featuring schlage converge technology with ultra-wideband (uwb), matter and thread networks, detects when you’re at your door and ready to enter then it will unlock hands-free. you can also tap to unlock your door with apple home key using your iphone or apple watch; by keypad code entry; and one-touch locking on your way out. the company’s encode plus, with apple home key support, built-in wi-fi and a bhma grade 1 deadbolt, gets high marks for withstanding canada’s frigid temps.
speaking of which, canadian company alfred smart locks manufactures commercial grade door hardware that’s specifically designed with our climate in mind, using specialized seals that keep the lock from freezing in temperatures down to -35c.
utilizing bluetooth connectivity, z-wave (a low-energy wireless signal similar to bluetooth) with google home or alexa apps, alfred locks work through a touchscreen pin pad, fingerprint scanner or physical key. the alfred db series alerts you to who’s entering your home and when, handles up to 20 pin codes, and comes with a physical key override. they also get top marks for looking so good in their chrome, gold or black finishes.
the yale assure lock 2 plus gets good reviews for its versatility without the bulk of similar locks. the module also works with bluetooth, as well as apple home and z-wave, and lets you tap your iphone or apple watch to unlock your door. it also stores a virtual key in your apple wallet. the built-in wi-fi module lets you track comings and goings, gives you real-time alerts, and locks and unlocks the door from anywhere using its app.
installing most smart locks is pretty straightforward, requiring roughly 15 minutes and a simple screwdriver if you’re replacing an existing deadbolt or installing one in a new door that’s pre-drilled. it takes longer if you’re installing a new deadbolt in a door without one.
getty images/istockphoto
the aqara u200 is coveted by tech heads for its ease of integration with a variety of smart home ecosystems including amazon echo or alexa, google home or apple home. it uses a fingerprint scanner, pin code, app, nfc card, apple wallet virtual keys, as well as a physical key, pairs with apple home keys and connects via bluetooth or the zigbee wireless mesh network.
advertisement
the lockly visage zeno deadbolt not only has built-in wi-fi, apple home key, apple watch, 3d fingerprint sensor using ai, and pin codes, it utilizes facial recognition in one second to unlock automatically, even at night using infrared. it also allows you to use siri to unlock your door. each of the two rechargeable batteries lasts up to eight months. in fact, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your battery power and expect to replace them every six to eight months, depending on usage. also, keep up with software and firmware updates for extra security.
you can also get smart locks through telecommunications companies as part of a monthly fee. telus offers smart locks through weiser home connect 620 with keypad access, remote control, and smartkey technology (which also allows you to use your existing key) as part of their smarthome+ subscription. rogers’ smart door lock touchscreen electronic deadbolt system, which also uses weiser, is available through its smart home monitoring plan.
screw it
installing most smart locks is pretty straightforward, requiring roughly 15 minutes and a simple screwdriver if you’re replacing an existing deadbolt or installing one in a new door that’s pre-drilled. it takes longer if you’re installing a new deadbolt in a door without one.
the locks usually include the bolt, exterior keyed lock or keypad, and interior thumb lever and plate that replace your existing deadbolt, or you can place them above it. or you can simply replace the interior thumb lever and plate and use the existing deadbolt and exterior keyed lock.
for backup, most companies offer a step-by-step guide to installation as well as answers to any questions around usage and troubleshooting.
tmej says the difference between doorknob and lever handle replacement locks comes down to a balance of style, function and accessibility. “many homeowners select a lever or doorknob based on the look they want to achieve, while lever handles are generally easier to operate for people of all ages and abilities. regardless of the style, the deadbolt, not the handle, is the primary security component for exterior doors.”
advertisement
smart locks are available from amazon, home depot and best buy with prices ranging from $78 to over $400, depending on features and home compatibility.
cybersecurity protections
you tap to unlock your door with apple home key using your iphone or apple watch.
schlage
manufacturers insist that their locks are pick-proof and hacker-resistant. but michael felgner, sst-tq, rse, rsc, pid, and bcit instructor for its security systems technician program, says, “any technology is hackable. any functionality has a failure rate. in my own personal opinion, you are forfeiting a lot of security for convenience. when your smartphone comes in proximity to your property, the door will unlock, the alarm will turn off. if someone takes your phone, they don’t necessarily need to access the phone, they just need to have it in proximity to the residence and they have access.
“generally speaking, locks with a key are incredibly reliable. there’s no app, no ongoing fees, no recurring revenue you have to pay out to somebody else. so from a cost perspective, really good quality locks are an incredibly good investment.”
he also questions personal data protection when you hand over your personal information to use companies’ apps. “if you have a system out of the u.s., you have no data sovereignty. does the company have the right to sell your information? who’s the custodian of that information and what happens with it? we in canada have much better privacy protections than the u.s. but most of these products, like nest or google, are american-based and they have the right to the data that you have to give them in order for these things to work.”
he concedes, though, that if you choose quality products with reputable suppliers “you should have no trouble”.
tmej says you don’t have to be a cybersecurity expert but you should look for locks that have an established track record in security and ongoing software support. “while most smart locks use encrypted communication, the difference is often in how manufacturers manage vulnerabilities over time through regular firmware updates, responsible security testing and long-term product support. keeping your lock’s firmware up-to-date is one of the most important things you can do to maintain both security and reliability. our smart lock offerings are convenient to use without sacrificing homeowner security. they’re designed with the latest encryption technologies to ensure they are secure and only authorized individuals can communicate with them.”
share story
