Before choosing to switch to digital lock, learn about its benefits and setbacks.
Whether you have just bought a new house or are renovating an old property, it is vital to protect your asset. There are plenty of options when it comes to home security – from enforced doors to wired locking systems to digital biometric access. While break-ins are not frequent in Australia, they do happen often enough for homeowners to invest in reliable security for all entry points.
For many homes and businesses, the standard deadbolt lock and key system may be sufficient. It’s cost effective and it does a decent job. But what if you want to upgrade your home security and you have the budget for it? It might be time to switch to a digital lock? Let’s help you decide.
Get smart with Keyless Locks
Digital technology has blessed the world with smartphones, smart TVs, and now smart homes. You already see keyless access systems in hotel rooms and offices, but what about your house?
Keyless locks refer to any type of lock that does not need a key – they can be opened through voice, fingerprint, or digital number combinations.
Compared to the traditional lock-and-key, electronic security systems are more expensive. So, if you are thinking of installing digital locks, the first thing you have to consider is whether the benefits justify the upfront expense.
Let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of digital locks for homeowners.
Advantages of Digital Locks
Electronic locks offer many benefits for homeowners, ranging from convenience to enhanced security.
1. Convenience
No more keys! You will never have to deal with losing or misplacing keys ever again. By memorising a set of access codes, you will be able to get in and out of your residence with the press of a button. This is especially convenient if you have your hands full. No more shuffling through your bag and fumbling through your keychain to find the right key.
If you are expecting visitors, you can simply share your access code with them instead of giving them your keys. And in the event of a power failure or an emergency, you can open the door manually through a key override feature.
2. Never get locked out ever again
One of the most frustrating experiences is finding yourself locked out of your home. Smart keyless locks eliminate this possibility.
3. One key for the entire household
Rather than making duplicate copies of your original key and handing them to each member of your household, you can merely share the access code. This way, your spouse, children, and parents can all get in easily. No more waiting around for another family member to drop off a key.
4. Improved security
Digital locks enable you to monitor every person who comes through the front door. If you suspect that your access code has been compromised, you can deactivate or change codes at any time.
With digital locks, there’s no need to hide spare keys under the planter or doormat. If you have called for service from a tradesperson, you can give them your access code and delete it once the job is complete. No need to give your neighbours a spare set of keys when you are going on a long holiday.
5. Easy to customise
You can assign a unique code to each family member or a different code to other people who need access to your home. You can also specify the time that the code will work. Through an app on your phone, you can easily track who enters and leaves your property. You could change your access code every month or every year for additional protection.
6. Boost the value of your property
If you are looking to sell your property in the future, digital locks are a worthy investment. Up-to-date security technologies can increase the resale value of your home. Although smart locks are an additional expense, they will help sell your home faster.
Downsides of Digital Locks
These are obviously great reasons to install electronic locks. However, there are also disadvantages to going digital. These downsides are not worse than conventional key locks – they are just different.
1. More expensive
The biggest disadvantage of keyless locks is their price. They are definitely more costly than a traditional locking system.
2. Stolen access code
There is a certain comfort with carrying a physical key in your bag or pocket, at least you know your key is with you. With an electronic locking system, however, you don’t really know if your access code has fallen into the wrong hands. Someone could be looking over your shoulder when you enter your code at the door.
3. Access code rotations
If you press the same access code over and over again, the buttons eventually wear out. You should change your access code regularly to prevent significant wear and tear.
4. Smart but not foolproof
Even though your digital lock is smart, glitches can still happen. There are electronic issues that a traditional locksmith might not be able to fix. The good news is that our 24/7 emergency lockout service can help resolve your digital locking issue right away.
Types of Keyless Door Locks
The best keyless door lock for your home will depend on the type of property you have and the people who need access to it. Below are three types of keyless locks available on the market.
- Keypad electronic locks – with this type of lock, you have to enter your access code into a keypad or touch screen.
- Biometric locks – this type of lock is one of the most reliable and secure as the biometric scanner detects and identifies your fingerprint or retina before unlocking the door.
- Wireless locks – this type of lock allows you to control your security system through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth technology. With Bluetooth, you need to be within a certain distance to open your door. But with Wi-Fi, you can unlock your door from anywhere in the world!
The pros clearly outweigh the cons when it comes to digital locks. Although they are more expensive, digital locks add value to your home. It is also true that while digital locks are not entirely foolproof, they are very secure.
Call a Trusted Newcastle Locksmith
Looking for high-quality digital locks? Then you’ve come to the right place. Ambassador is one of Newcastle’s most trusted locksmiths. We can install a wide range of traditional and digital locking solutions that best suit your budget and security requirements. Get in touch with us to learn more about our digital locks and keying services.