Why Get a Bluetooth Door Lock?
Many smart locks use Bluetooth to connect to a mobile device. These digital keys can take the form of a smartphone, key fob, or other smart devices.
These Bluetooth models offer some convenience, like allowing you to unlock doors from your phone when within range. They also don’t burn through batteries as fast as Wi-Fi locks.
Convenience
Boosting your home’s security is a major reason to consider getting a bluetooth door lock. Many models have an alarm built in that will sound if someone tries to open your door by tampering or forcefully pushing the button on the lock. These locks can also work with other smart home devices that you already have. For example, you can set up a device like your smart lights or a smart speaker to turn on automatically when your Bluetooth door lock is unlocked. Some smart locks even support IFTTT (If This Then That) recipes that allow you to create a chain of commands using your phone or other device.
Another benefit of bluetooth door locks is that they are easy to install. This is because they require no additional equipment and connect directly to your smartphone. This makes them a great option for homeowners and renters. The app allows you to lock and unlock your door from anywhere you have an internet connection, avoiding the need for a separate key fob or smart lock device.
The downside of bluetooth locks is that they can only be controlled when the phone with the app is close to your house. This can be inconvenient if your phone runs out of battery or you lose it. However, it is important to note that most of these smart locks can be paired with a physical key for backup in case of an emergency.
Security
The best smart locks offer a number of security features. Some can detect when someone approaches with a paired smartphone or key fob and will unlock automatically. Others can let you know who is at the door and even have a built-in camera to see who is there.
Most Bluetooth smart locks work with smartphones and can be controlled by an app, but they may also connect to other devices such as home hubs and voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. Some models can even geofence their location and lock/unlock based on your proximity to home.
Another option is a Wi-Fi enabled smart lock that connects directly to the internet bluetooth door lock and can be operated remotely. Wi-Fi locks can be expensive and require a good internet connection, but they often come with more security features such as a built-in camera.
A Bluetooth connected smart lock is a great option for homeowners looking to upgrade their security without spending a lot of money. However, a smart lock should always be used in conjunction with a connected home system for maximum safety and convenience. Contact your local Miami locksmith to learn more about upgrading your security with a new smart lock.
Installation
Smart locks let you lock and unlock your door remotely, extend digital “keys” to friends, family or caregivers who may need to enter when you can’t be there. They’re also more convenient than having to drop everything in your hands to look for your keys.
If you’re a homeowner, installing a bluetooth lock is an easy DIY project that typically takes no more than 15 minutes. Typically, you’ll need to remove the existing deadbolt and replace it with your new bluetooth smart lock. You’ll also want to make sure that the new lock fits properly into your door, as well as the door frame and the door latch.
Depending on which bluetooth smart lock you choose, there are various integrations that you can pair them with. Some will work with Alexa, Siri or Google Assistant, while others will connect to home hubs like SmartThings or Wink. Some Bluetooth smart locks will require you to be within range of your smartphone in order to unlock, while others can be operated by a keypad or other method.
As for security, Bluetooth locks are less likely to be hacked than Wi-Fi models. This is because they use encryption and have a shorter bluetooth door lock range, which means that a hacker would have to be very close to your house in order to intercept the signal between your phone and lock.
Maintenance
Like any electronic device, smart locks are susceptible to malfunctions from time to time. Thankfully, these are typically minor issues that can be resolved fairly quickly. In some cases, a simple reboot might be enough to solve the problem. This usually involves removing the battery, then reinserting it and following the manufacturer’s instructions to reset the lock.
In other cases, a smart lock might need to be recalibrated. This may be due to an error in programming that is detected by the system. This can be fixed by resetting the lock using its built-in keypad or manually by entering in a new code. Most smart locks also have a slot for a standard key, so users can still enter the home in case of an emergency or if the batteries drain completely.
As with any smart device, the user should read the manufacturer’s manual carefully to understand the proper maintenance procedures for a bluetooth door lock. These will vary slightly by manufacturer, but they should include steps such as cleaning the keypad and replacing the batteries periodically. Most smart locks will warn users when the batteries are low, so they can plan ahead for replacement. They should also clean their hardware regularly with a mild disinfectant solution. However, they should not leave the disinfectant on for a long period of time, as this could harm the appearance protection layer on the surface of the lock body.