If you put your key in the door and it sticks, it is time to have it replaced or serviced before it quits working all together.
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When you lock or unlock your door through the app, the signal will go to the closest cell tower in your neighborhood. It will then go to the security keypad and then use the Z-Wave or Zigbee signal to go to the door.
Gallian said homeowners also have a choice between traditional keyed locks and newer electronic locks that can be configured for keypad or Wi-Fi access. With the steady stream of new smart-lock technologies entering the market, he recommends researching the available options before making a choice.
Knowing when to replace or rekey a lock is another important concern. According to Wright, some well-built brands may last indefinitely, but a sticky key can be an early warning sign.
“Once a key starts feeling sticky, the key may be worn down, or the pins may be worn away. This is the typical time to replace the lock.”
Rekeying can make sense when you want an existing lock to work with a different key. Gallian says it is also worth considering when there is a concern that someone else may still have a key.
Keys, garage doors and security upgrades
One of the easiest ways to improve home security is also one of the easiest: Stop handing out physical keys whenever possible.
“Once the key has left your possession, any number of copies can be made. Smart locks with a PIN pad eliminate handing out keys,” Wright said.
For situations where someone else may need access, Gallian suggests another layer of protection. For example, renters or homeowners who are required to provide a key to a landlord or HOA representative may want to consider a second lock.
Another step is changing the locks when moving into a new home. Even if the previous owner or tenant seemed trustworthy, there is no way to know how many copies of a key may exist.