Your employees must have lost their keys at some point during their time on the job, and keys – whether traditional metal keys or fancy keyrings – can be expensive and cumbersome to replace. In fact, business owners can benefit from a keyless door lock because they don’t need physical keys.
In addition to improving security, they can save you time and money — you no longer need to make new keys when an employee loses them or replace locks when an employee leaves the company. Instead, you can change their code directly from your admin system.
You have a variety of options for keyless electronic door locks, so you can choose the one that suits your business. Read on to learn more about the various types of keyless electronic door locks and their features, pricing information, and more.
1. How do keyless locks work?
In the same way as regular locks and keys, keyless locks enable entryways throughout the facility to be opened and closed. The only difference is that no physical key is inserted into the lock. Depending on the keyless door lock model you use, the employee will enter a code, present a keychain or key card, or unlock the door using biometric technology such as fingerprints or faces. Locks usually remain unlocked for a few seconds after opening and automatically re-lock when the door closes.
Key points: Keyless locks use punch codes, biometrics, remote keys, or other devices to open and close entryways.
2. The benefits of keyless locks
Here are four benefits businesses get when they switch to keyless locks.
- Convenience: Allowing new team members into the building is as simple as generating code or entering their information into the system. You no longer need to make keys or change locks when the staff leaves. You also don’t have to worry about having a designated person open and close your facility every day. For example, I have a client who is a custom hard enamel pin manufacturer. He recently invited me on a tour of his business, where I found keyless locks on the front door. He says the locks are so convenient that he no longer has to spend extra time making keys for new employees.
- Security: There is greater control over who is allowed into certain parts of the building with keyless locks, whether it’s the front door or a restricted area. They can also gain insight into who goes in and out of buildings.
- Integration with access control: If you want to restrict access to certain employees at certain times of the day, such as during regular business hours, you can program keyless locks to do so.
- Longer lasting: All that turning and metal on metal can wear down a regular door lock. There is less wear and tear on keyless door locks.
Key points: In addition to providing tremendous access control and security benefits, keyless door locks also provide easy access for your employees.
3. Types of keyless electronic door locks
The type of lock you choose will depend on your business needs and the capabilities of the lock. Many locks, regardless of their type, offer a variety of keyless ways to unlock a door if a key is lost or a password is forgotten.
1) Keyboard/combination lock
Keyboard/combination lock models require a PIN code to unlock the door. They are very easy to install and maintain, and you can assign different codes to different users. You can change the PIN at any time to easily manage access to the building. Some models have protective mechanisms, such as a keyboard that shuts down after three attempts at an error code. Most newer models have touch screens, but some have physical buttons. Combination keyboard locks combine a PIN code with another type of lock, such as a deadbolt or handle.
2) Keyless/wireless smart lock
Keyless and wireless smart locks are also popular options. They allow you to connect to your lock via a Wi-Fi connection, so you can control your lock from anywhere in the world via a mobile app or remote control. But unless you buy locks as part of a smart home package, they may not come with a dedicated mobile app. Many smart locks offer Bluetooth capabilities that automatically unlock your door once you enter a certain distance. You can also unlock the door by tapping on the sensor using your phone or remote key.
3) Keychain/card
A key card or keycard is a way to unlock a smart lock that supports Bluetooth or Radio Frequency Identification (RFID). Simply tap the keychain or card to unlock the sensor. Keyrings and cards can be programmed to unlock multiple locks, so, for example, one of your keyrings gives you access to the front, sides, and doors of buildings.
4) Biometric lock
Biometric locks are a popular and up-and-coming choice for electronic door locks. You can unlock the door by scanning your fingerprint or, less commonly, your eyes. This is a very safe option because fingerprints are unique and difficult to forge. It is also a convenient option for individuals who do not have to carry a keychain with them, meaning they always have access.
The system unlocks the door by scanning a fingerprint and converting it into a digital template. Because this system relies heavily on connectivity, look for models with backup options such as a keyboard or mechanical lock so you can still get in even if your fingerprints cannot be scanned. If your company is large, biometric locks may not be the best option for you since many models only store 100 fingerprints.
Key takeaways: Keyless locks come in remote key or keycard form, a keyboard with PIN access, a wireless “smart lock” and biometrics that use a fingerprint or retina scan to open the door.
4. How to choose an electronic Keyless door lock
When choosing a keyless lock, first determine which type of lock is best for your business. If you don’t want to give people physical keys, keys, or access cards, keyboard locks usually work well. You have to think about how much code you need; Many models are limited by the amount of code they can support. You’ll also need to decide if you want a dedicated mobile app that allows you to lock or unlock your door, receive mobile alerts, or remotely control your lock.
The next step is to determine which features are essential and which can be eliminated. Finally, what type of credentials do you want — a key card, smartphone application, key card, or something else?
1) Low power indicator
No matter what type of keyless door lock you choose, look for one with a low battery indicator that alerts you when the battery needs to be replaced. An indicator light will appear for some models, while for other locks it may have a slow response time or require multiple attempts to open the door. This is an important feature because it helps you avoid getting locked out when your battery dies.
2) Integration
Consider what integrations you need. Many people like to integrate their door locks with Alexa, Google Home, IFTTT (if this, then that), Wink, or SmartThings, but not all locks can do this. Also consider whether you need to integrate locks with security systems and/or connect them to video surveillance systems, cameras, alarms, etc.
3) Durability
Durability is key. Because the locks may be outside, they are vulnerable to extreme weather and vandalism. Check whether the lock is waterproof, cold, heat resistant, etc., and whether there is any type of guarantee against human damage.
4) Price
As well as the number of locks you need, keyless electronic door locks are priced based on their features, features, installation, connectivity, and equipment requirements. Based on the 20 models we examined, the cost for premium models ranged from $125 to $299.
Important: When evaluating keyless door lock options, you should consider price, battery life, durability, and integration with other programs used by the company.
5. How to install keyless locks
By following a few simple steps, you can quickly install the keyless door lock without expensive equipment.
Keyless smart door locks do not need keys, providing convenience and security for your home. A keyless lock is easy to install without expensive equipment. You don’t have to be a professional handyman or pay high installation costs. However, you need to ensure that you have all the necessary parts before you start the installation.
1) What tools are required to install keyless door locks?
When you are ready to install the keyless door lock, you must know what tools are needed. This may vary depending on the brand and model of the keyless door lock you purchased. However, there are some standard tools available for most installations:
#1. A screwdriver
It is better to use the adjustable head because different sizes of screws can be used.
#2. Bit
This tool is used to drill holes in walls or doors so that screws can be threaded through these holes so that they will not slide out of any position during installation. You need to ensure that the drill bit is very suitable for your door bolt size; If the installation is not correct, your lock or door frame may be damaged during installation.
#3. Socket wrench or ratchet wrench
This tool is used to remove and install hardware such as hinges and handles from doors or drawers (and many other things). Tape measure – Use this tool together with the measurement mark on the door/window to help guide the position where the measurement should be taken during installation.
#4. Battery
The keyless door lock needs a battery for normal operation. If there is no battery in the product you purchase, please ensure that there is a battery box before installing anything else, otherwise, the device will not work properly after installation.
#5. Mallet and chisel
To cut the mortise on the door, use a chisel to scrape off the excess wood on both sides of the lock. Then hit it with your mallet until you have a beautiful and clean eyelet.
2) How to install a keyless door lock step by step?
Now, let’s look at the step-by-step instructions for installing keyless door locks.
#1. Prepare all necessary tools
Before installing a new keyless door lock, make sure you have all the necessary tools. You need to prepare several screwdrivers, a set of drill bits or screwdriver bits, a level gauge, and at least one drill bit.
#2. Remove the old door lock
The first thing you should do is remove all the old hardware from the door. This includes any handle or knob connected to it. First, remove the old door lock (if you haven’t already). If you want to replace the existing lock, this is very simple – use a screwdriver to unscrew the screw that fixes it, and then remove it.
If this is a new installation, you need to remove all the screws that connect the current hardware to the door before removing the hardware. Note: Please clean all surfaces. Wipe all surfaces with a damp cloth or paper towel, remove dust or debris that may be generated by the old lock, and ensure that both sides of the door frame and the inner and outer surfaces of the new lock are wiped for installation at one time.
This will prevent dust from accumulating in your new smart door lock mechanism. Over time, dust may cause failure or part damage due to your lack of lock maintenance!
#3. Install a new keyless door bolt
The next step is to prepare the new keyless door latch by removing the packaging and mounting plate and putting them aside temporarily. Before continuing, please make sure you know where these clips will go later!
Next, we need to take out the door latch unit (the part with two side holes) and align our impact plate to see how much space is left when connecting them later in the installation process. Install the new keyless door lock on the door and mark the position you need to cut so that it fits tightly into place.
#4. Install the impact plate
Remove the old latch and tap the plate. Using a screwdriver, remove them if they are screwed on. Push the top of each pin with your thumb and pull outward to release them if they are fastened with clips.
#5. Install the panel and fix it with screws
Install the new latch onto the door, and then install the crash panel on it until it clicks into place. Install the panel and fix it with screws. If you want to replace the existing panel, unscrew it from its current position. If possible, use screws instead of glue when installing them together – this can be easily removed if necessary!
#6. Adjust as needed
If necessary, adjust by loosening or tightening any screws until everything is properly aligned; If you are not sure whether the adjustment is accurate, use the key and code to lock/unlock multiple times for testing.
If you want to adjust the keyboard sensitivity (to avoid incorrect input), please remove the battery cover from the back of the housing and carefully bend the tab from the inner surface of the housing until the required sensitivity level is reached (be careful not to disconnect the label).
#7. Test the lock
Open and close the door five times continuously, and ensure that all locks work normally by locking and unlocking when closing the door each time. There will be some resistance when turning the keyless door bolt, which is normal and helps prevent intruders from entering your home.
#8. Program and set a new password for your new lock
The last step in installing the keyless entry system is to program it so that only you can enter! For this keyless door lock to work, you must enter a programming code. In addition, you need to set a new visitor code for daily use.
3) What should I pay attention to when installing a keyless door lock?
When installing keyless door locks, several factors must be taken into account.
#1. Keyless door lock style
The first factor is the style of the keyless door lock. There are many types of keyless door locks. You should find one that is suitable for your home decoration and aesthetics.
#2. Installation position of keyless door lock
Choosing the right location for your keyless door lock is another important consideration. Some people lock their front door, while others lock their garage door or back door.
#3. Security of keyless door lock
Make sure that you purchase high-quality keyless door locks to ensure the security required by your family or business! If possible, ask for advice from people who know these things before purchasing, so as not to waste money on unsafe construction without knowing it in advance.
#4. Price of keyless door lock
Keyless locks are much more expensive than old-fashioned ones. If you want the house to be safe, you’d better not buy cheap ones. Keyless door lock size. Before purchasing new doors and windows, you’d better choose the size suitable for your door and window; Otherwise, it will not adapt well during installation.
6. Keyless electronic door lock FAQ
The following will be detailed:
1) How safe is the keyless door lock?
You might think that the high-tech nature of keyless electronic door locks makes them more secure, but that’s not always the case. Keyless locks are no more effective than regular locks and keys — just more convenient.
2) What should I do if the battery dies?
We recommend locks with low battery warnings. However, if the battery dies, check the manual for instructions on how to release the lock.
3) Can keyless door locks be hacked?
Like any device that can connect to the Internet, keyless door locks can be hacked. However, following recommended safety procedures minimizes the likelihood of such an event occurring. For example, do not use simple passwords or distribute them in plain text such as an email, or they may be intercepted by bad actors.
4) Will the lock stop working after a power failure?
No, the electronic locks continue to work because they run on battery power. However, look for models with simulated backup methods, such as deadbolts or traditional keys, so that you have another way into the building.
5) How about the installation technology of electronic door lock?
While what might be considered technical to one person may not be to another, manufacturers have worked hard to ensure installation is as simple as possible. There are some companies that offer step-by-step instructions with photos and videos.
6) Does the lock need wiring?
No wiring is required for any battery-operated keyless door lock. In fact, none of the models we looked at required hardwiring. Wireless options have become popular because they are easy to install and maintain, and most vendors offer them.
7. Conclusion
I hope this article can help you understand how to install keyless door locks. If you want to find a better keyless door lock, you can protect your home or office more safely and remotely through mobile applications, please check our smart locks.
