Digital Door Locks
The Good and the Bad of Digital Door Locks
Digital door locks are unique, keyless, programmable locks that can be used to secure an area of your home, from your garage to your front door, to your home office. There are several different types of digital door locks, each with its own uses. Learn the difference between them to determine which one is best for you.
Digital Door Lock Pros and Cons
Every digital door lock has its pros and cons, similar to the pros and cons of most standard locks. While pluses and drawbacks may be unique to specific locks, there are some broad considerations that match across the board.
Pros
- The ability to change codes often for security
- The lack of bumping that occurs with keyed locks
- Automatic locking features on most locks that mean you never have to worry about setting the deadbolt
- The convenience of not having to carry a key
Cons
- Battery or electronic locks may be rendered useless without power
- Locks with a backup key may still be bumped or drilled
- Some electronic locks do not hold up well to the weather
- Can be easily pried or wrenched open
Types of Digital Door Locks
Digital locks can be defined in different ways depending on what it is they are meant to open, how they are wired to your home and how they function.
Keyed and Keyless Locks
All digital locks can be opened without a key, but a few types can be opened either way. These locks use a keypad in combination with a standard key or a digital key card. Either one will open the door. These locks are ideal for:
- Multiple users
- Users who frequently misplace their keys
- Users who travel frequently and want a neighbour to check in; the neighbour can be given a unique key code, rather than a key. The code can be changed once the homeowner is home.
Drawbacks to this type of door lock include:
- Bump keys will open this type of lock
- They are frequently spring-locks, not deadbolts, which makes them easier to open
Single-Sided Deadbolt
Single-sided deadbolts are one of the most common types of deadbolt installed in most homes. They work in combination with a second lock installed on the doorknob itself. One side of the deadbolt can be turned without needing a key or combination; the other side requires a key code to unlock. Digital deadbolts can be installed in place of an existing deadbolt.
Double-Sided Deadbolt
Double-sided deadbolts are essential for doors that have glass panes or panels. Both sides of the deadbolt require a key code to disengage; if the glass were ever broken, the deadbolt could not be flipped by someone reaching in.
Battery Operated Locks
Door locks can be operated in a few different ways. One of the more common is to use a battery. Battery operated door locks usually have an LCD display, light up when touched and are easy to reprogram using a master code. The drawback to a battery-powered lock, however, is that the batteries require changing about once a year; if the battery dies, the keypad function will not work. Most locks do have a low-battery light to help indicate when this will occur.
Battery operated door locks are used primarily for door knobs and interior locks; they are not typically used in deadbolts. Many battery-operated locks also have a key override; if the battery dies, the key is used to unlock the door.
Mechanical Locks
They are used primarily for deadbolts, exterior locks and high-traffic areas that get a lot of use.
Alarm Locks
Alarm locks blast a loud signal if you try to enter the wrong code too many times, pick or break the lock. They may be wired into your home’s alarm system, or they can have their own alarm system that works solely with the lock. They are almost always wired right into your home’s electrical system, so there are no batteries. If there is no key override for the lock, however, a loss of power may render it inoperable.
Fingerprint Locks
For those that don’t want to carry a key, or remember a key code, consider getting a fingerprint lock. Fingerprint locks scan your print to unlock the door, no key or code required. These are among the more expensive versions of digital locks available, however, and they may need to be protected from the weather to ensure their continued use. Another drawback to this type of lock is the fact that it can be “picked” if the thief is able to lift your fingerprint and copy it onto a latex glove.
Upgrade Your Locks
Digital door locks are an innovative way to help keep your home safe. Whether you opt for a mechanical version or one wired right into your home’s alarm system, a digital door lock may bring you more options in how to get some peace of mind.