Smart lock install: How to Install A Smart Lock On Your Door
How to Install A Smart Lock On Your Door
- Pros and Cons of Smart Locks
- Smart Lock Features
Jump to sectionPros and Cons of Smart LocksSmart Lock Features
Smart locks are the way of the future. They open either with passcodes, voice commands, or through the GPS on your phone. That means that you’ll never be locked out of your house again (well, maybe not never; more on that later).
Smart locks have their drawbacks, one of them being the installation process. Now, you could hire a professional, but if you’re more of a DIY type of person, keep reading below.
How to Install A Smart Lock on Your Door
Before you install your smart lock, there’s a few things you need to know.
DIY vs. Professional
First, decide if installing your lock is a DIY or professional job. Note that if you go the professional route, it’ll cost anywhere from $307 to $617 on average.1 Add that to the average cost of the smart lock itself, $150, and you may change your tune on installation.
What You’ll Need: Required Specs
Before you buy your lock, find out the requirements, which, in some cases, includes tools, a specific kind of lock or door, or a home security system. For example, you may need a deadbolt, a single-cylinder deadbolt, specifically, an indoor outlet, or a cylinder door lock.
If you buy the Nest Yale Lock, you’ll need either the Nest Guard or Nest Connect from Nest Secure. Similarly, the Kwikset SmartCode 888 requires the Vivint home security system. If you already have a home security system, get a lock that works with it so you can have your system arm when the doors lock and vice versa.
Installation Instructions
The exact instructions on how to install a smart lock will differ based on the model and manufacturer, but it will look something like this, according to the lock manufacturer August:
- Prepare your existing deadbolt.
- Remove your existing thumb latch.
- Prepare your mounting plate.
- Attach your mounting plate.
- Attach your adapter.
- Open the wing latches.
- Attach your new lock.
- Remove the faceplate.
- Remove the battery tab.
- Replace the faceplate, etc.2
Tip: A WiFi-connected lock is the first step to securing your door. Also add door sensors to your door frame so you are alerted whenever someone enters or exits your home.
Once you’re done inserting the batteries and installing the lock, test the locking mechanism to make sure it works correctly. Better yet, add a doorbell camera to see what’s happening at home. The Ring Peephole Cam, for example, lets you see through the peephole (the hole in the door) on your phone.
App Setup
Now that you’ve installed the physical lock, it’s time to make it smart by setting up the app. Here’s how you connect the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock to the August Home app, specifically:
- Download the app from the App or Google Play stores.
- Create an account.
- Add the lock.
- Name the lock based on its location, i.e., front door, back door, etc.
- Connect the lock to your Wi-Fi network.
- Set up smart home integrations.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Smart Locks
While we love using our smart locks, we know that they’re not perfect. For example, unlike standard locks, these IoT locks can be hacked, much like any other Internet of Things (IoT) device. Let’s break it down.
Pros
- Prevents package theft: By letting your Amazon delivery man into your home remotely, you can kiss package theft goodbye.
- No keys needed: Forgot your key to the office? With a lock that has a keypad, you won’t be left out in the cold.
- Passcodes for guests: If you need to let someone in remotely, you can give them temporary passcodes, which are much better for preventing home invasions than leaving a key under the mat.
- Event history: If you’ve ever wondered when your dog sitter really gets to your house, you can check out the lock’s activity in its mobile application.
- No lock picking or bumping: This doesn’t apply to smart locks that still work with regular keys. However, if your smart lock doesn’t have a key slot, it can’t be picked or bumped.
- Smart home integration: Have your smart lights turn on when you unlock your door, or make your smart garage door close when you lock your side door. In other words, your smart lock can trigger other smart home devices, making your smart home function automatically.
Cons
- Hackable: Just as smart security systems can be hacked, smart locks can be hacked as well. Especially if you don’t have a strong password set up, hackers could gain access to your lock and, therefore, your home.
- Depends on Wi-Fi: A smart lock that’s solely dependent on your Wi-Fi could run into issues, particularly if your Wi-Fi isn’t super dependable.
- Depends on batteries: If your smart lock isn’t hardwired into your home’s electrical system and rather, is wireless, the batteries could run out, leaving you left outside.
- Expensive: As we said, smart locks cost $150 on average, so installing them on multiple ground-floor doors will cost hundreds – and even more – if you go with professional installation.3
- Difficult to install: Out of all the IoT products we’ve tested, smart locks were the hardest to install, especially if you have to hardwire them into existing deadbolt setups.
Note: We recommend getting a smart lock with a key slot, so if your Wi-Fi or batteries fail, you still have a way inside.
What to Look For in Smart Locks
Now, it’s time to look for the best smart locks, but what should you keep in mind?
Smart Lock Design
- Style: Smart locks come in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern. Since they’re usually visible from the curb, make sure they match your home’s style.
- Color: Smart locks also come in a variety of colors, usually in blacks or grays. Again, increase your curb appeal by getting a smart lock that pops.
- Touchpad vs. key: While key slots make your smart lock pickable and bumpable, they’re a good assurance against getting locked out if your Wi-Fi fails or your battery dies.
- Power: There are both hardwired and wireless smart locks. While hardwired smart locks are harder to install, you won’t have to worry about running out of battery, just power outages. Wireless smart locks, on the other hand, typically last six months to a year, with low-battery alerts on your phone before they run out of power.
- Durability: If your smart lock goes on the exterior of your deadbolt, which most do, take two factors into consideration: IP rating and temperature range.
Since they’re usually visible from the curb, make sure they match your home’s style.| IP Rating | Solids (First Digit) | Liquids (Second Digit) |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Not protected | Not protected |
| 1 | Large bodily surface like the back of a hand | Dripping water falling from above |
| 2 | Fingers or similar objects | Dripping water falling from a 15-degree tilt |
| 3 | Tools, thick wires, and more | Spraying water |
| 4 | Most wires, screws, and more. |
Splashing water |
| 5 | Dust-protected | Water jets 6.3 mm and below |
| 6 | Dust-tight | Powerful water jets 12.5 mm and below |
| 7 | n/a | Immersion up to 1 meter |
| 8 | n/a | Immersion over 1 meter |
The IP rating is the smart lock’s susceptibility to solids and liquids. Look for one with an IP rating of at least 65, meaning it’s dust-tight and can handle low-pressure water jets.4 Temperature range, on the other hand, is more straightforward. Most smart locks work in temperatures from negative numbers to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, covering most climates.
- Tamper alarm: Your smart lock should alert you if anyone tries to mess with it.
- Connectivity: Most smart locks connect to your mobile app over Wi-Fi, although some also use Bluetooth, ZigBee or Z-Wave. Compare Z-Wave vs. ZigBee here, if you aren’t familiar with these protocols.
- Requirements: Make sure the smart lock works with your existing lock setup and doesn’t require any tools that you don’t already have.
Smart Lock Capabilities
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- Remote control: Of course, you should be able to control your smart lock from anywhere with the internet, meaning its app needs to work well.
- Schedules: If you get home at the same time every day, why not have your door already unlocked for you? This is also a good feature for kids who are alone after school for a couple of hours.
- Smart platform integrations: If you’ve already set up a smart home, look for a smart lock that fits with your voice assistant, Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri. Your smart lock should be able to trigger your existing IoT devices, making for some convenient home automation.
- Geofencing: Geofencing means that the smart lock changes based on your phone’s GPS. Once you’re close to home, your smart lock will unlock and vice versa. However, geofencing can raise some security issues, like if you pass your house but don’t enter. It’s also not ideal for those who live in apartments, as your door could unlock the second you step in the downstairs lobby. Decide whether you think the convenience of geofencing is worth the potential security risks.
- Guest access: To let guests in when you’re not home, you can give them temporary passcodes; this is great for housekeepers, delivery workers, and home service technicians.
- Event log: Your smart lock’s app will keep track of its activity throughout the day, letting you see when your door was opened and closed.
- Auto-lock: Some smart locks lock your doors automatically when you leave the house, meaning you never have to wonder if you left your door open.
Once you’re close to home, your smart lock will unlock and vice versa. However, geofencing can raise some security issues, like if you pass your house but don’t enter. It’s also not ideal for those who live in apartments, as your door could unlock the second you step in the downstairs lobby. Decide whether you think the convenience of geofencing is worth the potential security risks.Mobile Application
The mobile application is your smart lock’s home away from home that lets you perform all these wonderful capabilities.
But if it doesn’t work right, then they’re all null and void, so check out the app’s ratings before you buy.
Price
Except to pay about $150 per smart lock; they don’t come cheap. But, hey, there’s always Black Friday smart home deals to look out for!
Recap
Even though smart locks aren’t the most straightforward smart home device around, they’re so convenient that we think they’re more than worthwhile. Besides, once you install one, the others will be a piece of cake. Learn more about how to secure your home with more IoT products like smart home security systems.
FAQs
If you’ve made it this far, you’ve got questions we haven’t already answered. Well, strap in, because there’s some smart lock knowledge headed your way.
-
Can I install a smart lock myself?
You can install a smart lock yourself; most of them do not require professional installation.
However, the process is relatively difficult and may require tools. -
How are smart locks installed?
You install smart locks by removing the existing deadbolt and thumb latch, attaching the mounting plate and adapter, and then attaching the smart lock, etc.
-
Is it easy to install a smart lock?
No, it’s not easy to install a smart lock. Even our experts at Security.org had issues, and we’ve installed dozens of smart home products in the past.
-
How much does it cost to install a smart lock?
To install a smart lock through a professional will cost anywhere from $307 to $617, according to the home services website Porch.
However, the process is relatively difficult and may require tools.Smart Door Lock Installation and Services
Smart Door Lock Installation and Services | OnTech
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First Service Included with OnTech+
Get any smart lock professionally installed as soon as tomorrow.
We’ll install, set it up and show you how to use it.
INCLUDES
Installation, Setup & Advice
Enjoy personalized service that starts with installation and ends with you mastering the ins and outs of your new tech.
Smart Door Lock Installation
Installation of any smart lock (deadbolt or spring latch). Includes removal of existing lock and installation of new hardware per manufacturer specifications.
Personalization & Setup
Configure app, customize to your unique needs and connect to Wi-Fi and other smart devices.
Expert Advice
Show you how to use your new smart lock and app.
Same- or Next-day Appointments1
Hooray! Help is on the way. You pick the day and time that works best and we’ll be there.
OnTech Guarantee
We want you to love your experience. If for any reason you’re not 100% satisfied, we’ll work with you until we get it right.
Don’t lift anything (or drill bit).
Save yourself the hassle of resizing holes or chiselling behind your strike plate. We’ll install your new smart lock for that perfect fit and finish.
It’s only smart if it works.
We’ll personalize everything for you, setting up your smart lock and apps to work the way you need them.
Ditch the user manuals.
We’ll show you how to make the most of your new smart lock and leave you informed, empowered and feeling like you got this.
A store that revolves around you.
You’ll also get to explore like-minded products that work brilliantly together, including smart hubs, doorbells and Wi-Fi. Like something? We’ll install it on the spot.
OnTech was amazing helping me install a Google Nest hard wired doorbell. Took time to explain everything and respected our home during these Covid times (foot coverings and masks). Would recommend them to anyone!
Morgan A.
We highly recommend OnTech. We are Google family and they were able to help our homes become smart home.
Lucil P.
The technician, Lorenzo, was very professional and efficient. He was able to explain what he was doing and complete the installation in a timely manner. Would definitely recommend this technician and company.
Mairead O.
Had a great experience with a professional installer. He was great at not only installing my new Nest doorbell but helping me set up the app and answer any questions I had.
Kevin F.
I hired OnTech to install a hard-wired Ring video doorbell. They did an excellent job and a great price. I was very happy with the installation and highly recommend using them.
Kimberly M.
The Details
What’s Included
Smart Door Lock Installation
Installation of any smart lock (deadbolt or spring latch). Includes removal of existing lock and installation of new hardware per manufacturer specifications.
Door Lock Compatibility
Confirm door lock is compatible with home. If your door requires any modifications, our technician will quote the additional cost
Please note: Mortise locks are not compatible with typical smart door locks
Customization
Connect to WiFi and perform first-time setup. Customize device preferences. Configure doorbell with an existing voice control device.
Expert Advice
Show you how to use your new smart lock and app.
Troubleshooting
If you need trouble-shooting on an installed smart door lock, please schedule a Smart Home Diagnostic appointment,
What Smart Door Locks does OnTech Install?
We install all Smart Door Locks, both deadbolts and levers.
Will OnTech teach me how to use my new Smart Door Lock?
Yes. As part of our service guarantee, your OnTech technician will show you how to use your Smart Door Lock device(s) and any associated apps.
Does a Smart Door Lock installation required drilling new holes in my door?
OnTech will install all smart door locks that have a cylindrical deadbolt.
If your door requires any modifications, our technician will quote the additional cost.
How much is OnTech Smart Door Lock Installation?
At OnTech, we believe in helping you create the connected home of your dreams. That’s why we offer discounts on multiple installations completed in the same appointment.
All subsequent smart door lock installations are discounted $35 from the initial price. If your smart device requires additional non-standard add-ons (e.g. required doorbell transformer, deadbolt replacement, etc.) the technician will assess the work and quote the additional cost.
What if my installed smart door lock is no longer working?
For smart door locks that have been installed and are not functioning properly, click here.
Limit one Google Nest Mini per order. Exclusions apply.1 Subject to availability, varies by location. 2 Compatible smart devices required.
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Installing the Xiaomi Aqara lock on a metal door
← Examples of workJune 16, 2020
Professional installation of Xiaomi smart locks
Can’t find a specialist to install the Xiaomi lock? Need to install a smart lock on a metal door? The extensive experience of Zamok Spb specialists allows you to install Xiaomi door locks both in a new place and in the place of an old lock.
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- Xiaomi Aqara Smart Door Lock N100
A client asked to install the Xiaomi Aqara Smart Door Lock N100 he bought on the front metal door.
Installation and insertion of the lock in a new place took about 1.5 – 2 hours. Increasingly, customers are choosing such locks because these locks are connected to the smart home system, they can be used and programmed using a mobile phone.
The photo shows installation of Xiaomi Aqara door lock N100
Installation of Xiaomi Aqara Smart Intelligent Door Lock S2 Pro
on a Torex metal door.
We can only talk about the possibilities of this lock on the positive side, the smart lock Xiaomi Aqara Smart Intelligent Door Lock S2 Pro can be connected to the whole variety of smart devices from Xiaomi. The door lock can be programmed for different scenarios and interactions with other smart home devices. For example, upon returning home, as soon as you open the lock and the door, the light in the room automatically turns on, the curtains open, the kettle and water heater turn on. All these little things make your home truly smart, and life in it becomes comfortable.
In the Vsevolozhsk district, a Xiaomi smart lock was installed on a metal door.
Installing the lock model Xiaomi smart door lock E on a metal door with a standard lock KRET. Installation took approximately 2.5 hours.
To install the Aqara lock, individual end plates were made in order to hide the mounting holes from the previous lock. Individual approach to the installation of smart locks.
Xiaomi Aqara P100 smart lock installation with camera
Repair of Xiaomi smart locks, adjustment of lock closing after incorrect or incomplete installation. If, when the door is closed, the lock indicates that the door is not closed, call us and we will set up Xiaomi.
Lock Aqara N200 (ZNMS17LM) installation and overview
During the initial setup, we need a physical key. In the Mi Home application, press the button to add a new device (do not forget to select the Chinese region in the settings). Automatic search should find a new device. In the process, we will be asked to press the confirmation button and enter the code on the outer panel of the lock.
All this will be accompanied by prompts in Chinese. The next step is to set the administrator password, and you need to pay attention to this! The fact is that it is registered in the device and when resetting, they will be asked to enter this password. Without it, the castle can be thrown out.
Again, this password must not be forgotten.
After that, we will be prompted to add a user with administrator rights and check all available options for opening the door. The application interface is in English, but with pictures everything is more than clear:
After completing all the steps, we get to the main menu.
I remind you that you can connect to the lock both directly from your phone via Bluetooth, and remotely, through a special gateway.
Above the text indicates the status of the door, closed or not. Below are 4 lock status indicators. From left to right: Bluetooth connection, internal latch status, main bolts closing, and battery status. Below is the history of all locks and unlocks (linked to a specific account), as well as unauthorized access attempts.
There is a lock release button on the bottom, but it works only with direct connection. If, for example, you are at work, and you need to let someone into the house, you just can’t do it (even if you have a gateway). But we can generate a one-time password remotely.
The password must be copied immediately and sent to the guest, it will not be possible to view it again. And for regular guests, you will need to create a user and assign a role to him (this can already be done only while in a direct Bluetooth connection).
There are 3 types of roles: administrator, user and guest.
Administrator account can unlock the lock by any method (password, fingerprint or NFC tag). Even if the internal latch is closed, the administrator can open the lock.
The user has all the same opening methods, but without the ability to open the internal latch.
And the guest can only have a numeric password, which can be limited by date and time. It will be useful when you go on vacation, and someone needs to water the flowers or feed the cat.
NFC unlock allows you to use special tags, or a smart watch with the mentioned module. You can open it by putting the phone, but only if it is from Xiaomi and the Mi Wallet application is installed (not available in the Play market for Russia). It should be understood that cheap tags from AliExpress will not work, the Aqara version has an EAL 5+ security certificate.
From myself I can say that the most convenient way to open is a fingerprint.
In the additional settings, you can activate dual authorization (when, in addition to scanning the fingerprint, you also need to enter a password) and activate the security mode.
Armed mode activates an additional touch button on the external panel. Clicking on which will turn on the security script on one of the gateways. In this regard, the castle just fits perfectly into the security alarm scheme: left the house > turned on the guard. At the same time, the cameras go into recording mode, and opening windows or detecting motion starts a siren.
The castle has a lot of voice notifications and we can adjust their volume, and most importantly, switch the language, but only to English.
A gateway is required to run automation scripts. In my example, this role was taken over by Gateway 4.
There are a lot of actions in the scripts, although they all initiate the launch of the script (you cannot control the lock itself).
The choice is quite large.