It seems like everything is getting smarter. From our vehicles to our homes, smart technology is making our lives easier. A smart lock can cut you loose from having to carry keys altogether.
The latest vehicles no longer require a key for access. In much the same way, smart locks allow you to lock and unlock a door with the simple tap of a finger or a voice command.
Some smart locks also allow remote access, which means you can unlock or lock your door from anywhere. This is handy if you are expecting a guest, or if you forgot to lock the door when you left for work.
This is all great, right? But before you can get any practical use out of the smart device, you’ll need to know how to install the smart lock on the door.
Installing smart locks is one of the easiest DIY projects ever. You can use it to replace a standard locking device.
It’s about as simple as removing a couple of screws, changing out devices, and replacing the screws to hold the lock in place.
We will take you through the basic steps you’ll need to complete.
Steps for Installing a Smart Door Lock
Changing out a traditional door lock for a smart one is not difficult. You can do it in just five steps.
It’s simple, but it’s also a fun DIY project that won’t take you very long to finish. Here are the five steps for installing a smart lock on a door.
Step 1: Remove the Current Deadbolt. All you’ll need to do this step is a screwdriver. If you are accustomed to using power tools, you could use a drill.
Use your tool of choice to remove the two screws located on the back of the deadbolt. These two screws are on the inside of the door. Once you remove these two screws, take the deadbolt apart.
Then, remove the actual deadbolt from the door. You may need to remove two screws from the plate on the door’s inside edge to do so.
Step 2: Install the New Latch. Remove the components of your new smart lock from the packaging. Then, position the latch so that the “up” position is at the top.
Adjust the latch so that its length matches the hole in the door. Slide the new latch into the door. You should notice a hole in the middle of the latch.
Place a screwdriver in the hole and turn it to make sure the latch completely extends and retracts.
After it is in the proper position, use two small screws that came with the deadbolt to secure it in place.
Step 3: Install the Smart Lock. Position the smart lock on the door hole and through the inside of the latch. Make sure to slide the wires under the latch. Inside, place the bracket on the door.
Place the wires through the corresponding holes in the bracket.
Step 4: Install the Inside Panel. Before placing the inside panel, remove the battery pack. Plug the electrical components in per any instructions that came with your new smart lock.
Tuck the wires inside the lock and then secure it with the screws provided. Now you are ready for inserting the batteries into the device. Then, slide on the cover plate.
Double-check to ensure the deadbolt works properly before beginning the programming process.
Step 5: Setup the Smart Device. Download the corresponding app to set up your new smart lock with your phone or computer. If your lock uses a keycode, you’ll need to enter the default code.
The deadbolt should begin an automatic setup routine. Once it has finished its setup, close the door and test the lock.
If the bolt does not move freely to lock and unlock the door, you may need to adjust it a little.
Common Questions About Door Smart Locks
Making the switch from a traditional bolt lock can bring up a few questions and concerns. Here are some common questions and their answers.
Can hackers break the code and get into my home?
You can help keep your home safe from hackers by using Wi-Fi security best practices.
For instance, make sure to require a password to connect to your home’s Wi-Fi. Use a complex password. A secure Wi-Fi setup can deter hackers and keep all your connected devices safe.
What happens if my internet connection or electricity goes out?
Most smart locks include a traditional key port. This allows you to use it as a standard lock if needed.
Also, Bluetooth should still work when your smartphone is in range. If your smart lock is battery-operated, it will still work even in an electrical outage.
Just be sure to change the batteries regularly.
Final Thoughts
Installing a smart lock on your door is an easy DIY project. In most instances, it’ll only take you about 30 minutes to install it. Then, you can enjoy the convenience of a key-less entry.
