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Unlocking New Markets with Smart Deadbolts

Are smart deadbolts opening the door for security dealers and locksmiths?

There are many potential advantages that might attract customers to smart door locks for their homes or businesses. With most integrated solutions, the smart lock can be remotely checked using a smartphone app, doors can be remotely locked or unlocked, and functions can be integrated with other devices or system functions such as security or fire alarms. As the popularity of smart home and automation solutions continues to grow, these products could be the perfect gateway for a security dealer or traditional locksmith to make their initial leap into the smart home market.

There are a number of manufacturers that traditional locksmiths will already be familiar with—such as Kwikset, Schlage, August Home, and Yale—that are delivering smart locks. What makes these devices attractive for the installer is that, in most cases, the existing deadbolt and outside keyway can remain in place. The smart lock module mounts on the inside of the door, providing electronic control and status of the deadbolt via Z-Wave to a system controller and potentially a smartphone app, depending on the controller/solution used.

Some of the smart deadbolt locks offered also include a manual latch to lock and unlock the deadbolt which can be used at any time. This makes it simple for those who don’t have the appropriate app on their phone to lock and unlock the door from the inside and handles the issue of a low battery condition in an installed smart lock. The outside keyway still works, and the door can be locked/unlocked manually from the inside.

Some smart locks include the option to have the door automatically relock itself 30 seconds after it has been unlocked. This might be an attractive feature to some customers as most burglary statistics indicate that many burglars enter homes through the doors.

When selecting smart deadbolt locks, be sure to check that the lock selected will work with the existing deadbolt mechanism. Most manufacturer’s products can be installed with the common deadbolts currently in use. A word of caution: existing doors and their deadbolts need to be carefully inspected and tested before selling the customer on the benefits of smart lock technology. A door that has excessive “play” in its mounting or a hard to lock/unlock deadbolt may not be a candidate for a smart lock installation. Locking mechanisms generally can’t perform any lock or door shifting which is sometimes required with older doors and locks.

The demand for smart home and automation products will continue to grow, and smart door locks have found a home along with them. Security dealers and locksmiths are poised to fill that demand. Locksmiths and security dealers may also find it beneficial to begin building solid relationships with each other as the sharing of sales leads can come as a benefit to all. 

This blog was originally published on ADI Global’s Website: http://blog.adiglobal.us/unlocking-new-markets-with-smart-deadbolts/ 

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