Smart Lock Features
What are some of the features that you expect from the smart lock you intend to purchase? What do standard smart locks have? Some of the features that you should expect from smart locks include:
A Tamper Alarm
Just like traditional locks, smart locks are vulnerable to brute force. When an intruder attacks your smart lock with a screwdriver, chances are that they will gain access to your property. Therefore, when purchasing a smart lock, the best one you should choose should notify you when your entry point is under attack. The Yale’s smart lock is an example of such a product that can help you detect when someone is trying to break in. It alerts you by producing an audible alarm and also pings you on your smartphone.
User-Based Permissions
This is a key feature in any smart lock that you may consider to purchase. With such a feature, you won’t need spare keys for trusted workers. You can also sync your smart lock with the SkyBell Video Doorbell to further protect your home. Statistics indicate that most burglars in St. Louis, MO begin by ringing the doorbell to identify whether you are in or away from home. By switching your doorbell for the SkyBell, you will protect your property with remote monitoring and cloud recording. With this feature, you can easily let in your kids or trusted workers inside your house or property.
Voice Activation
There are several locks with this feature that enables you to lock and unlock a door using simple audio commands. Some will require you to recite a PIN code as an additional security measure.
Geofencing
When you purchase a smart lock with this feature, then you can say goodbye to fumbling to get your keys outside when it’s raining. Instead, when you get near your door, it will automatically unlock when it detects that you are nearby.
Integrations
You can easily integrate third-party products with your smart lock, for instance, the SkyBell Video Doorbell or other leading smart home systems.
Security is The Primary Reason Why People Install Smart Locks
Although convenience and comfort are some of the most common reasons why people purchase smart locks, the main reason is a more basic reason: to provide safety to loved ones, especially due to the increased burglaries in St. Louis, MO. According to sensormag, some of the smart home security devices that most people purchase are smart locks that have a connected camera and a video doorbell.
Benefits of Smart Locks
The St. Louis, MO crime statistics indicate that they are 184% higher compared to the nation’s average and when it comes to crimes involving property; they are 154% more than the country’s average. This data indicates why technology is becoming important. Some of the advantages associated with smart locks include;
They can work with your smartphone
One of the best things that people love about smartphones is integration. After you download an app that works with your smart lock, you can lock or unlock it when you are miles away. This means that you can embark on your work and never mind whether your front door was left locked or unlocked when you are already busy working. With a smart lock, you won’t have to go back home to check whether you locked your door. Instead, you can launch the smart lock app and lock your home easily using your phone. You can also use the app to verify whether you completed the most important task of securing your property.
Some smart locks enhance security camera functionality
In case you have installed camera-based home security systems, you can find smart locks that diversify their features. For instance, using recent technology like the SkyBell Video Doorbell to find out who is at the door and determine whether you will grant them access by tapping on a button in your smartphone app. Such a capability is especially important for senior or ill people who may not easily reach the door quickly after someone knocks.
You can allow multiple people into your home simultaneously
If you make several trips far away from home and there are several people who are lined up to either pick up the mail, water your plants or to pet sit during your absence, then a smart lock can help you by providing access codes for each person. In case you were still using traditional keys, then you would be required to go visit a locksmith to cut several keys for you or worse, you would have to leave your key under a rock or in a secret place where any burglar can easily find it.
List of The Best Smart Lock Brands
Kwikset Premis: For only $230, you can get this touchscreen deadbolt that comes with a home kit integration. This means that you can easily lock and also unlock your door by using an iPhone app or Siri. You can also check the status of your door remotely, you have up to 30 unique codes that you can share with friends and family, and you will get notified when a code is used.
Yale Real Living Keyless Touchscreen Deadbolt: For maximum flexibility, if you want to connect your smart lock to your smart devices, this smart lock deadbolt is a strong candidate. With this device, you can configure the settings to have the lights and coffee pot turn on when you unlock the door. You can also share unlock codes with family members or friends and store up to 250 pins. This smart door lock will only cost you $240.
Friday Lock: This unobtrusive lock will only cost you $250 and you will need your smartphone to lock and unlock it. With this smart lock, you can share virtual keys with your loved ones and receive notifications whenever someone gets into your property or leaves.
Can Smart Locks Get Hacked?
Most homeowners ask themselves this question before they decide to purchase smart locks for their property. Although great smart locks tend to be secure and convenient than traditional deadbolts, they are vulnerable to hacking. A skilled hacker who can potentially break into military servers, government websites or banks can hack a smart door lock. However, why would such a talented professional be interested in breaking into your smart locked property? This would be a waste of time and talent. Researchers have identified that most burglars are unskilled and cannot hack into smart door locks.
Should You Buy a Smart Lock?
By weighing the pros and cons of buying a smart lock, you will be able to make an informed decision on whether a smart door lock is a good security measure. Research indicates that smart door locks help protect property compared to traditional door locks. Whatever the future holds, smart locks are certainly the answer to fighting burglary in St. Louis, MO.
Contact us to learn more about smart locks or other smart home automation features.
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