Digital Keys and Digital Door
Locks for Home Security
By Steph
I always like to hear about new ideas that really work well, are easy to
implement, and not expensive. Here’s one that is so simple, you’ll wonder why
more people don’t do it, that is install a digital door lock on the doors in
your house. Hey, these work great on cars—why not houses?
A digital door lock is simply a fancy name for a pushbutton, combination, or
keyless entry lock. With a digital door, you won’t have to risk your keys will
be lost, stolen, or copied. There is no AC wiring or batteries, so you won't be
locked out during power failures. And you’ll never have to pay a locksmith to
change out your locks—you can do this yourself.
Digital door locks are available nowadays with a hacksaw-proof deadbolts for
standard doors, sliding doors, cabinets, even outdoor gates & fences like around
a pool or play area. You can even get locks with a keypad on both sides or with
a spring, so door automatically locks each time the door is closed.
Most digital door locks have with easy-to-change codes and some even come with a
key override option so that a master key can be used to open the lock as well as
the combination.
Some models are big and clunky and look like they would do best in an industrial
setting like a data center or lab, but others have really nice designs and
finishes that go quite well in a home setting.
What are the things to look out for when choosing a lock? Pretty much what you
would expect:
1. Make sure you get a high-quality lock with a good warranty, at least 5 years,
from a reputable dealer who also has a clear, no-nonsense return policy.
2. Find a dealer that will sell you parts, just in case you need them.
3. If you think you’ll be purchasing more than one, also ask about volume
discounts, even if you purchase them at different times.
4. Look for a dealer that carries several models and finishes, so you can get
exactly what you want.
5. Check out the installation instructions. These days, any homeowner equipped
with a phillips head screw driver should pretty much be able to install these
locks themselves and change the combination in just a matter of minutes.
6. Make sure you know up front what the tax, shipping and handling costs are.
7. Finally, shop around. Use the Internet to find sites that sell digital door
locks. It’s fast, easy, and secure.
About the Author: Homeowner
Steph
- Homeowners and Home
Security: Kiss Your
Keys Goodbye : Digital Door Locks -
