So, you’ve installed (or you’re probably thinking about it) a smart lock. Good for you! But now you think about what happens when the power goes out. Are there any failsafe protocols? Will you be able to get in at all?
Those are all important questions to know the answers to–and relax, smart locks do come with failsafes. As to what they are specifically and how they work, we’ll address it all in detail below!
What Really Happens When The Power Cuts?
Power cuts can be a real worry if you’ve recently got a smart door lock installed and you’ve never dealt with this kind of situation. However, don’t stress too much because most of them come with their own battery backup.
So if the power goes out, they just switch to battery mode, letting you still get in with a key, app, or keypad. This switch is super handy because it stops you from getting stuck outside in the dark.
To keep this battery system working well, it’s a good idea to check and change the batteries now and then. Using rechargeable ones is smart since it saves cash and is better for the planet.
Testing the backup system regularly can make sure your lock’s always ready if the power suddenly cuts out. Doing these things helps keep your home secure and gives you peace of mind, even when the lights go out.
Some Practical Tips During Power Cuts
Dealing with power cuts doesn’t have to be a hassle if you’re ready for them. Here’s how to make getting into your house a breeze:
- Keep a good old-fashioned key handy. While smart locks usually behave well during power outages, having a regular key as a backup is a smart move. Stash it somewhere safe but easy to grab, like under a flowerpot or inside a quirky garden gnome. Or, if you trust your neighbour, leave it with them for safekeeping.
- Make sure everyone at home knows the alternative ways to get in. Have a little family session to show them how to use the smart lock app or keypad. Turn it into a mini-adventure, so everyone’s clued up and ready. That way, no one ends up stuck outside looking like they’ve lost a key to a secret garden.
- Keep an eye on the battery backup regularly. You don’t want your lock giving up on you when you need it most. Maybe set a reminder on your phone to check the battery every few months, so you’re never caught off guard.
With these simple steps, power cuts will be just another thing you’ve got covered. Why not take a bit of time this weekend to check your locks and get the family up to speed? It’ll make life a whole lot easier, come rain or shine.
Smart Lock Security During Power Cuts
When the power’s out, your home can feel a bit more vulnerable. Some people might also have worries about hackers sneaking in when our gadgets are off.
To stay secure (and sane), give two-factor authentication a go. This makes it much tougher for intruders to break in. Ensure your passwords are both strong and unique. Avoid easy guesses like birthdays–instead, use a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.
Also, keep your lock’s software up to date, as that will patch any security flaws and bolster protection against potential threats.
Consider a smart lock with an alarm, as it can sound off if someone tries tampering with it, even during a power cut. That’s definitely an extra lawyer of defence as it can really panic an attempting burglar packing, who’s going to abort, thinking they were in for an “easy job”.
So, sound alarms are definitely an extra layer of protection and something to give you additional peace of mind. Just be sure to regularly check your lock settings to ensure they function smoothly, regardless of what’s happening with the electricity.
Maintenance Practices for Power Cuts
As with anything, to keep your smart locks working when the power’s out, you gotta look after them regularly.
Start by checking the electronic bits now and then and give ’em a gentle wipe with a soft cloth to stop dust from accumulating and messing things up. Don’t forget to update the firmware too–it helps keep everything secure.
It’s also a good idea to see if the battery backup works by pretending there’s a power cut and making sure it switches to battery like it should. Maybe set a reminder every few months to do all this, or when you’re going to be away from home for a while.
Lastly, contact your security provider or a local qualified locksmith to conduct a test on your system or check all the things above if you’re not feeling confident about something. It pays off to be prepared rather than sorry. That’s how you’ll keep your home safe, even if the lights go out.
Conclusion
Smart locks are great and are becoming more and more popular every year.
Legitimate concerns, such as power outages, can sound scary at first, sure. However, as you can see, there are fail-safes and steps you can take to bolster your home security further.
Don’t forget that regular maintenance is required, too, if you want true peace of mind. So, give these tips a go and you’ll stay safe no matter what happens with the power!
