Know your door
Door thickness, backset, deadbolt style and whether the door is metal or wood all affect what fits.
Ways to unlock
Smart locks support several unlock methods:
- Keypad codes
- Phone app
- Key fob or card
- Fingerprint
- Physical key backup
Power and backup
Most use batteries and warn you before they run low. Choose a lock with a backup method so you are never stuck outside.
Guest access
Temporary codes make it simple to allow guests, sitters and contractors and to remove access later.
Pair with cameras and automation
A lock is more useful with a doorbell camera. Control4 can lock everything with a Good Night scene.
Wi-Fi, Z-Wave or Zigbee?
Wi-Fi locks work on their own with an app but use more battery. Z-Wave and Zigbee locks connect to a hub or smart home system, use less battery and can be part of scenes like Good Night. Choose based on whether the lock stands alone or joins a larger system.
Door problems first
A lock that struggles to throw the bolt drains batteries and jams. Before installing, the door should close easily and the bolt should line up with the strike. We adjust hinges and strikes as part of every install.
For rentals and second homes
Scheduled codes let guests, cleaners and contractors in only when they should be. Entry logs show who came and went. See short-term rentals.
Common questions
Which brands do you install?
Can locks work with Control4?
Many can. See Control4 security.