Digital locks have gone far beyond being just a mere fad. These items are now mainstream, offering homeowners a convenient way to access their homes. They also unlock a whole new avenue of access, allowing owners to enter their homes without the need for a physical key.
Higher end units also come with additional functionality, such as the ability to set temporary passwords, or even remote unlocking via the wifi regardless of your geographical location.
The pros do come with their own cons. Rather obviously, these locks need a power source, which often comes from AA batteries. Also, they tend to be more fragile than traditional locks, so more care needs to be exercised when using them. Which then begs the question, just how do you keep your digital lock in good shape?
Regular Battery Checks
Failing batteries can leak chemicals. These corrosive fluids can react with the plastic housing, warping the casing and requiring replacements. The battery terminals themselves can also be damaged in the process.
Excessively swollen batteries can also cause the battery covers to crack or be deformed, again necessitating replacements.
Using the Appropriate Batteries
Manufacturers suggest using Alkaline batteries, and for good reason. With no chemicals to leach out of the battery, there’s less risk of damage. They are also more durable, and have a longer battery life, so you reduce the chances of being locked out of your own home.
As with the point made above, regular battery checks and replacements every six months will ensure your digital lock stays healthy electronically!
Avoid Excessive Force on Your Door
Slamming a door sends a lot of kinetic energy through the material. It can wreak havoc on the delicate electronics used in the build of a digital lock, either shortening its lifespan or rendering it inoperable should the habit be repeated.
Installing a quality door closer reduces that risk. If that is not an option, be sure to gently close your doors! Being kind to your door means you give your digital lock the best chance at longevity!
Ensure Lock is Properly Installed
If you have purchased your lock via a reputable dealer, chances are that a qualified technician will be the one doing the installation. Unless you are very sure about what you are doing, this is a job best left to the experts.
Digital locks usually require more internal space in the door, requiring space to be hollowed out and clearanced in a specific way. Excessive resistance will shorten the lifespan of your unit.
Regular Cleaning
The metallic surfaces of your digital lock can corrode over time. This process is sped up significantly if you live near large bodies of saltwater. These are also the surfaces that you interact with the most, so it is an ideal environment for bacteria to fester.
All these factors are not ideal for the preservation of your digital lock. Regular cleaning/disinfection removes surface corrosion and oxidation, making for a better cosmetic appearance, but also gets rid of any unhygienic build up of sludge.
Buying a Reputable Digital Lock
It will literally pay for you to do your digital lock homework. This is the only thing guarding your humble abode, and all the valuables stashed within, from the outside world. It has to be secure and do a good job at keeping those you don’t want in your space, out.
Several brands, Samsung being one of them, use TSA-grade scanners in their digital locks for extra security. These often also have encrypted coding to ensure hackers are unable to gain access to your home by simply jamming the possible digital lock frequencies.
As it is also a long-term investment, there’s an insignificant difference between a lower end item and one that is built to be robust and impenetrable. So be a smart shopper and choose wisely!
Digital Lock Photos Courtesy of homesmart! All other photos are from Pexels.
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