AA San Tan Valley Locksmith: Pros and Cons of Keyless Entry for Homes

Door locks were invented over a century ago. And really, there has not been much in terms of updating to the modern lock as we know it since that time. Locks work on a tumbler system, and most people find the regular lock and key system affordable and simple to use. However, with modern times and advances in modern technology, there has been development in entry options for your home. One such option is the keyless entry option. This option would usually entail using a keypad to key in a code to gain access to the premises. However, there have been advances in technology and new keyless options are on the market. There is a door lock that can be opened by scanning your smartphone, or a keyless lock that opens with a fingerprint scan. This options may be at the higher end of the spectrum. Whichever type of keyless option you prefer, there can be pros and cons to the system. Keep reading to find out what you should keep in mind when shopping.

PROS TO KEYLESS ENTRY

Convenience

One of the biggest pros in regards to keyless door options is the convenience. Your code can be shared amongst the members of your household, and you never have to worry about misplacing your keys again. This works especially well if you have children who are letting themselves in after school. I personally remember losing my keys quite often in high school, and my parents having to make a trip to cut yet another set of keys. With a keyless entry system, you don’t have to worry about your kids losing keys and being stuck out in the cold. There are also some keyless entry systems that can be set up to be compatible with your garage door system. This helps so that only one remote can access the entire house.

Share Access without having to be there in person

If you are out of town and would like to have a friend or relative check something inside your home, you would have to leave a spare key behind. Once this person has your spare key, they are free to make copies and have access to your property at any time. With a keyless option, you can simply call and share the code. When you return home - reprogram in a new code and this person will no longer have access to your home. This convenience also works very well if you have a rental property or an Airbnb type rental. Instead of having to leave to meet your renters to exchange keys, you can simply provide them with the door code. Once they check out of the unit, you can reprogram the code for the next renter.

No more lost keys

As mentioned above, you don’t have to worry about lost keys anymore. There will be no need to hide a spare key somewhere outside of your premises (such as by using a hide in a rock system, under a potted plant, under your doormat etc.). Hiding your keys in these places could lead to unsavory characters finding the spare key, and having access to your premises. A keyless entry system won’t leave you worried that your spare keys are out in the community.

Enhanced security

Some keyless entry systems come with advanced security measures. For example, if the incorrect code is entered more than three times, it will automatically trigger your alarm. This helps if you’d like enhanced security for your home.

CONS

Someone can peep at your code

Just like when you use your PIN number at the ATM, when you enter your entry code into your home, and you have someone with you - you will want to make sure you are covering your code adequately. If you are not paying attention, this person could memorize your code and access your premises without your consent.

Wear and Tear

If you are using a keypad system, the digits you use to enter your code will become worn over time. For example, let's say your entry code is 1-2-3-4. Over time, those numbers will become faded and worn out looking. If a savvy criminal tries to enter your come, they will see that those numbers are the most faded. They then only have to go through a few number combinations to come up with your code. The way around this is to periodically change your code. This will increase your home security, and will bypass this wear and tear issue.

Cost

This is the most obvious con to this type of entry system. A keyless entry option is more costly than the traditional lock and key system. Keyless options will require professional installation, and they are more costly to purchase and replace. A deadbolt ranges in cost from $20 - $50. While a keyless entry system can cost $150 - $250, and the more sophisticated systems (such as fingerprint entry) can be even more costly.

Power outages may make the system unusable

Many of these keyless entry systems are electronic, and work either by battery or off of your household electricity. So in the case of a power outage, the door may not work. While most keyless systems also come with a keyed option, this won’t help if you have given your code to children, relatives or tenants that do not have access to the keyed option. To rectify this issue, many homeowners invest in a generator or back up batteries ready for such an occurrence.

There are many different keyless entry options available on the market. They use modern technology in new ways, and there is usually an option available that will suit your needs. If you are in the San Tan Valley, Arizona area and want to explore keyless entry options for your home, give us a call! AA San Tan Valley Locksmith are the local experts and can discuss all your options with you. We are happy to walk you through the available choices, and help you find a system that will suit your needs.