In our everyday lives, we often come across digital locking systems without realising them. Many local gyms have biometric locks, where users enter with the use of their fingerprints. Hospitals and offices often use access control systems, where they gain access with a key card. And almost everyone has a wireless car key, where they can lock and unlock their doors from a distance. However, when it comes to locking our homes, digital locks are much less common, despite experiencing a surge in popularity.
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Should you upgrade your home security to a digital locking system? Here are the benefits and drawbacks of digital locks:
Benefits of Digital Locks:
Increased security
There are plenty of reasons that digital locking systems can be safer than traditional locks. For one, copies of keys cannot be made. The owner is certain of the number of keys in circulation and can update access rights within the software. If they lose a key, they can remove it from the system. For many digital locks, these access rights can even be changed remotely, allowing users to control and monitor the security of their homes when they’re away.
Burglars are much more equipped to pick mechanical locking systems. Their tools are specifically designed for more traditional locks, and their job becomes even easier if a spare key can be found on your property, which is not an issue with most digital locks.
Ease of access
With digital locks, access to your home is simpler than ever. Instead of fumbling around with numerous keys, you can unlock any door in your house with one key, whether that be a key card, fingerprint, or access code.
For locks that utilise fingerprints and codes, it means the owner doesn’t even need to carry anything around, making user access even easier.
Durability
With frequent and heavy use, it is not uncommon for old keys to break and get stuck inside mechanical locks. Also, due to the natural wear and tear that can occur within traditional locks, they often rust over time and malfunction as a result. In these situations, the owner will need to call a locksmith, and may even have to replace the entire lock.
Conversely, digital locks are incredibly durable and will require much less maintenance in the long run. As they do not use keys, digital locks don’t sustain the damage inflicted by repetitive friction.
The not-so-great thing:
Electrically powered
Rather than having multiple disadvantages, digital locks only really have one, but it can be make or break for plenty of people. Digital locks require a power source to work; users can either wire the door or use batteries.
Now, it seems like this wouldn’t be a problem, but in reality, it results in a lot of maintenance. For each door, the user would have to replace the battery packs before they run out. Otherwise, the locks would run out of power and therefore not work. Similarly, wiring all the doors would not only be pricey but could land you in hot water in the event of a power outage, where your locks wouldn’t work.
However, as lock technology continues to evolve, companies are testing new ways to make home security even easier, and more foolproof for consumers. New smart locks emerging on the market are powered by other methods, such as smartphones.
Whether or not you decide to go digital, Hashtag Locksmiths are there for all your home security needs. Give them a call today to discuss your options.