Home LivingSmart HomeHow to choose and install a smart lock, according to a smart security expertWant to upgrade to a smart lock? Here’s what you need to consider when turning your door into a smart oneWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Home LivingSmart HomeHow to choose and install a smart lock, according to a smart security expertWant to upgrade to a smart lock? Here’s what you need to consider when turning your door into a smart oneWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Want to upgrade to a smart lock? Here’s what you need to consider when turning your door into a smart one
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Ultion)
(Image credit: Ultion)
Protecting your home from intruders is as simple as locking your doors and windows, right? Wrong! According to security experts, 76% of burglars break into your home using the front door and a standard door lock can be compromised in under nine seconds.
After reading these scary statistics, you might be looking for a way to tighten your home security and secure your home from break-ins. Investing in thebest security camerascan keep an eye on your premises and scare off intruders with their built-in sirens and spotlights. But for specific protection for your front door, you need a smart lock.
Thebest smart locksreplace your standard door locking mechanism and allow you to easily lock and unlock your home using an app, keypad, fingerprint or digital keys. What puts some people off using a smart lock is the ‘hassle’ of changing their existing lock to a smart one, but it’s actually much easier than you think.
To find out more, I spoke to Nick Dutton, CEO at British security company,Ultion. Ultion develops and manufactures locks, keys and handles for better door security. Below, Dutton explains how to choose the right smart lock, and tips to keep in mind during installation.
How to choose the right smart lock
There are many reasons why you might want to upgrade your front door with a smart lock. Security is at the forefront of this decision-making, as is the convenience and integrated smart functionality. Rather than fumbling around looking for your keys, forgetting them or losing them completely, a smart lock connects to an app so you can lock and unlock your front door with a tap of a button and even with your voice.
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(Image credit: Ultion)
(Image credit: Ultion)
What to keep in mind when installing a smart lock
Installing a smart lock can look complicated, which is why Dutton has listed four things to keep in mind during the installation process.
Do your research
For British customers, the “Ultion Nuki Plus has a secure digital module that slots over a high security Ultion mechanical lock… and is designed specifically for British doors. That way, you get all the remote access you’d expect – including an auto-lock feature should you forget to lock it yourself after leaving the house.”
Check fitting times
Depending on your smart lock of choice, you can set it up yourself, but it’s important to “check how long it will take to fit” before you start tampering with your door. According to Dutton, “some lock brands suggest their smart version can take around four hours to fit with wiring and drilling, which is ridiculous!” In general, it should only take a few minutes to half an hour to set up a smart lock, and with an Ultion lock, Dutton says it should only take about five minutes.
(Image credit: Ultion)
(Image credit: Ultion)
When in doubt, hire a professional
If you’re not a DIY expert, installing a smart lock might look a little daunting, so when in doubt, hire a professional. While “you don’t necessarily need a locksmith to do it,” says Dutton, “if you’re replacing something old, want added peace of mind with a guarantee, or would just rather leave it to the professionals, we can always suggest someone reputable in your area.”
Don’t forget the app!
Head to theUltion websiteto upgrade your door to a smart one with an Ultion smart lock.
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