There have been over 230,000 home invasions in Australia since 2018. Home security is now more important than ever.
But how can you keep intruders out without sacrificing convenience?
If you’re looking for a reliable home security solution, keyless entry systems might just be your answer. In this article, we’ll be discussing what keyless entry looks like and the 7 best keyless entry options for your home.
What is Keyless Entry?
Keyless entry refers to doors, garages, and other entryways that don’t use traditional key-and-tumbler lock setups. There are different types of keyless entry options. Some have keypads with lock codes that you can type in to unlock doors. Others use key fobs or smart locks.
But why get a keyless entry lock in the first place?
Why Keyless?
There’s nothing worse than coming home from work or from taking the trash out only to find that you left your keys in the house. Being locked out is a real headache for homeowners and happens more than you might expect.
Most of the time, keyless entry doors don’t require any keys or accessories. All you need is a strong passcode to go in and out of your home.
This means you won’t be locking yourself out of your home quite as often. It also makes going in and out of the home extremely convenient.
If you’re constantly worried about break-ins, keyless entry is the solution to your problems. It’ll keep intruders out of your home even when you leave the house for a few minutes.
Having to find the right key in your massive keyring is a chore. With keyless entry, you’ll never have to fumble around with keys ever again.
Being locked out is a real headache for homeowners and happens more than you might expect.
Electronic and Smart Door Locks
Electronic door locks use magnets to move door locks. They often use passcodes that can be entered via a keypad or touchscreens.
Some electronic keyless entry front doors use FOBs or cards that serve the same function as a traditional key but take far less time to unlock.
Smart locks are a part of the Internet of Things umbrella. They leverage WiFi or Bluetooth technology to unlock doors. It can connect to your smartphone or other electronic apps.
Reference for photo Keyless Entry Options
7 Top Keyless Entry Options
Keyless entry systems come in a variety of options. Some have touch pads and fingerprinting for maximum convenience. Others are more cost-effective and incredibly secure.
To help you make the best decision for your home, we’ve compiled the 7 best keyless entry options below.
1. Schlage Camelot Keypad Entry with Flex-Lock
The Schlage Camelot Keypad Entry is a state-of-the-art keyless system great for any homeowner. With a keypad and lever, it makes home entry a breeze.
Its Flex-Lock system is where the Schlage Camelot really shines. You can flip the auto-lock function on and off using a thumb-turn by the knob.
If you’re going in and out of the house, having to put in the passcode each time you come inside is annoying. The Flex-Lock makes this process easier by letting you flip between auto-lock functions.
2. Ultraloq UL3 Fingerprint and Touchscreen Keyless Lock
If you’re looking for something even more high-tech, the Ultraloq UL3 is your answer. With a fingerprint lock, the Ultraloq ensures maximum security for your home.
The biometric system allows for 99 different fingerprints. The keypad allows for 99 different passcodes as well. It also comes with a simple installation process and a backup key slot.
If you want a keyless entry system that’s even quicker and more convenient than a typical keypad, the Ultraloq UL3 is the way to go.
If your family is a fan of smart home devices, the Schlage Z-Wave will fit right into your smart home capabilities. It leverages its keyless entry features alongside Amazon Alexa and other automation systems.
This means you can use smartphones to unlock your door. It’s also voice-activated which comes in handy when you’re carrying groceries into the house.
It’s a great residential keyless solution. There’s no need for fumbling around with keys with the Schlage Z-Wave.
4. Kwikset Contemporary 92640-001 Deadbolt
If biometrics and smart home technology sound a bit out of your price range, Kwikset is here to offer a more affordable solution. The Contemporary Deadbolt is reliable, durable, and has long battery life.
The keypad holds up to 6 different combinations. You can even program single-use codes for babysitters and other visitors.
It can also be integrated into your home security system. The Kwikset can trigger alarms if someone types in the wrong code five times.
5. Schlage BE365 Camelot Keypad Deadbolt
The BE365 is one of the most durable keyless systems from Schlage. The keypads have silicone coatings to keep the buttons from degrading. It has a low-battery indicator and backup batteries so you’re never stuck with a dead keypad.
The BE365 allows for up to 19 different keypad combinations. Its price sits perfectly between the cheapest keyless solutions and the more advanced keypads on the market.
6. The Kwikset 99090-018 Signature Series
This keyless system from Kwikset allows you to rekey your door using their SmartKey Security system. This is perfect for when you forget a passcode or lend a key to a friend who never returns it.
It also allows for up to 8 passcodes and a nifty auto-lock feature. The Kwikset is highly sensitive to lock picking and bumping, deterring intruders from even trying to break in.
7. The Schlage FE595 Keyless Door Lock
Looking for reliable keyless solutions that fit the look of your home? Schlage has you covered.
The FE595 comes with a variety of finishes and styles to match your home decor. It also has a kick-resistant adjustable bolt to boost your home security even more.
If you live in an apartment or have a home office with valuables locked away, the FE595 is perfect for you. Its user-friendly installation process makes the Schlage that much more effective.
Dot Point. If your family is a fan of smart home devices
Dot Point. If your family is a fan of smart home devices
Dot Point. If your family is a fan of smart home devices
Find the Right Keyless Entry System Today
Keyless entry systems are growing in popularity and accessibility. Keep your family safe without compromising convenience by investing in keyless locks today.
Looking for reliable locksmith services near Melbourne? Asguard Locksmith has you covered! Contact us today and we’ll get you started immediately.
As a property manager, you are looking for the most effective keying system for the buildings. Did you know that the simplest option is to install a master key system?
It can be a lot to keep track of on top of giving keys to the tenets and other workers in the building. Now imagine if you just had one key that went to every door on the property.
Master key systems can increase security and make life even easier as a property manager. Read on to see what a master key system is and how you can benefit from it.
How Master Key Systems Work
A master key system is a modern mechanical access control system. A system like this is recommended for any type of building. The building could be residential, an apartment building, or a large commercial building.
In any basic single-key locking system there are two sets of pins. The lower level has the key pins where the ridges of the key connection with the lock.
Driver pins are on the top. Those pins raise and lower as pins put pressure on them. When the correct key unlocks the door, the two sets of pins work together and can turn and open the lock to the door.
When a master key system gets installed, another pin is installed. These pins are called master wafer or master pin. These pins go in between the two-pin systems which are already in place.
Now the key fits into the lock slightly differently. This allows the same key to work on multiple different doors. Any standard lock can become a master key system if the master wafer or master pin is added to the existing locks.
Typically there is the master key, the sub-master key, and the maintenance keys. The principal or master key controls all locks on the premises. Sub-master keys are given to people on the team who will need access to specific areas. Maintenance keys are useful for staff who need access to a lot of different locations, especially after hours.
The Installation and Cost
Installing a master key system is going to be a job for locksmiths. The installation requires the locks on the doors to be customised and rebuilt. In the end, there is the potential that the lock cylinders could need repairing.
Master key system costs depend on several factors. The cost will increase depending on how many doors are in the building and the number of keys that need issuing.
The Benefits of Master Key Systems
One of the main benefits of having a master key system is the security that comes with it.
Certain employees need access to specific areas such as storerooms or utility closets. So access gets provided to specific rooms while restricting access to say a tenets apartment or other private spaces.
Or say an apartment building needs to allow tenants into the garage or basement as well as their apartment. With a master key system, they have one key for all of those things. Now they have total control over who can access certain areas within the building.
Affordable Security Option
Adding a master key system is an affordable security option compared to something such as security cameras or adding other large scale security measures.
If a key gets lost, you as the property manager can simply rekey the one door that you need to. Now you don’t have to rekey every single lock in the building.
So not only will you save money upon installation, but you will also save money down the line on rekeying and maintenance.
Serialization
There is also serialization for master keys. This means that each key has a unique serial number so we can identify individual keys. The serial numbers also help to ensure that there is a record of how many keys exist, what level of access the key has, and who it belongs to.
Key Control Software
We can keep better records of keys issued to different personal and tenets with key control software.
The software is a cloud-based software that gives real-time updates with who has what keys and where they can access it. This is also known as a master keying system chart or template.
Rekeyable Technology
Say that one of our master keys is lost. Rekeyable technology allows property managers to rekey locks at the mast key level. No more rekeying every door in the building.
Now it is just a matter of replacing the master keys for the key holders only once we have rekeyed. This offers significant cost savings for the building as well.
Organization
Adding key clips or coloured master keys can be a great way to stay organised as well. It is even possible to allocate a colour per floor or area of the building. Helping management and other staff members stay organised.
Property Management at its Finest
If you are one of those property managers that own multiple types of businesses or facilities, master keys systems could benefit all different types of facilities.
Master key systems are great for multi-tenet buildings as well as larger organizations. Whether you are giving keys to employees or tenets, you will have complete control over who has access to specific locations.
You can even have master keys that work across several buildings in case employees or managers need access to multiple facilities.
Enhancing The Business with a Master Key
Master key systems are designed to help ensure that keys are accounted for at all times and there is a way to access each room.
Instating a master key system for the property begins with calling a locksmith. If you want extra security and other benefits of a master key system, it is time to call Asguard Locksmiths. The highly-trained technicians are ready to help install the locks and hardware that suit your needs.
Changing the locks on your home’s doors and windows is important for ensuring the safety of your family. Whether you are moving home or upgrading your home security, it may be time to consider new locks and here’s why…
• You have just moved into your new house
Moving into a new home is, of course, an exciting time. However, it’s also a big job that comes with a lengthy ‘to do’ list. One of the items on that list should be to change the locks. You have no idea how many copies of the house keys the previous occupants have made or who they have issued them to, so to be on the safe side, installing new door and window locks should be a priority.
• Keeping up with the latest in-home security
The whole point of door and window locks is to keep the bad guys out and your loved ones safe on the inside. Burglars are constantly figuring out ways to break through home security which is why new innovations are being developed to keep those bad guys at bay. Making sure you replace any outdated or old locks is vital to keeping your home secure.
• General wear and tear
Did you know that worn or rusted locks are easier to pick or force open by criminals? It is important to keep an eye on your locks and make sure that they are in good order to avoid your house becoming vulnerable to break-ins. That goes for keys as well. A weakened, rusted key could snap off in a lock. Imagine being stuck on your doorstep in the pouring rain? Not an ideal situation at all! Old locks can also become rusty and difficult for you to open. So, when it comes to ensuring that your home security measures are 100% effective, changing the locks on your doors and windows is highly recommended.
While living in Melbourne is quite safe (excuse the pun!), last year there was 28,337 burglaries in Melbourne. Thats equivalent to 3 per hour on average! Having a properly installed safe is your last line of defence against would be thieves. Here is 5 reasons to buy a safe you may not have though of.
1. Protect those important documents
A safe isn’t just for jewellery or gold! Important papers like Birth Certificates, Passports, Title deeds, Old photos and even USB flash drives with valuable digital information should all be kept in a safe. These items can be difficult, expensive or even impossible to replace, so lock them up!
2. Protects your belongings from workers you may have at your home
Many people these days have Cleaners, Nannies, Au Pair or Various Tradespeople working in their house. Sometimes occasionally, sometimes weekly or daily. While we usually only hire people we trust, keeping your valuables locked away in a safe gives you peace of mind knowing that they won’t disappear next time your plumber or nanny stops by!
3. Gives you peace of mind when you’re out of town
The last thing you need while away on a holiday or business trip is the worry of your valuables going missing in the event of a burglary. Having a correctly installed safe will ensure that your valuables remain in your hands, and not in the hands of even the most dedicated thieves!
4. Safes can protect from fire, not just theft!
Many areas of Melbourne a prone to bushfires in the hotter months. Something that a lot of homeowners forget is that in the event of a fire, time is of the essence, and trying to get valuable and sentimental items out of your home can risk a serious injury or worse – death. Let a quality fire safe protect your valuables so you can concentrate on getting your family to safety.
5. Keep electronics away from kids until their homework’s finished!
Perhaps a little extreme, but locking up your child’s iPad or game console can help ensure straight A’s when that report card comes around!
To learn more about what safe is right for you, check out our range here. Give us a call to arrange an appointment on 03 9068 8225 or email us at: admin@asguardlocksmiths.com.au
Thanks for reading!
The Asguard Locksmiths Team
In the market for a new Digital Lock?
**UPDATE 28/04/2020 – We are proud to announce we have partnered with Digital Doors Australia as a registered installer in Melbourne. be sure to check out www.digitaldoors.com.au for all your digital lock needs. Use code Asguard10 for 10% off you first order until 31/05/2020**
Over the last few years, the quality of digital locks has improved dramatically. However, the amount of choice available can be seriously confusing for many people unacquainted with the world of locks and door hardware. Keep reading to find out which Digital Lock you should or shouldn’t buy.
Samsung SHP-DS510
Samsung Digital Lock
Of All of Samsung’s offerings. This is one of the few I would recommend. This Digital Lock functions similarly to the Lockwood Digital Deadbolt (below) with a couple of slight differences. The programming is almost identical, but it is also compatible with the included prox tags so you don’t always have to enter your code. A small reed switch fitted near the edge of the door allows the lock to sense if the door is open or closed for the auto lock feature. unlike the Lockwood lock which simply re-locks after a preset time period. This helps prevent damage to the frame when you need to have the door open longer than 15 seconds!
The DS-510 also fits into a standard 54mm hole meaning it should be compatible with most deadlocks on the market today. So if you are renting, replacing the lock with a standard deadbolt is simple and leaves no exposed holes in the door. The main downside to this lock is the keyway. It’s not standard (In Australia) by any means and this often means having a separate key for this lock. Usually, with a Digital Lock this means an easily misplaced key – not good!
The Lockwood Digital Deadbolt is easily the most popular Digital Lock available. A neat satin finish is available and the deadbolt fits easily into a standard (54mm) deadbolt footprint. Conveniently the keyway is a standard LW4 key way that can most likely be easily keyed alike to other locks in your home. A keyless version that allows the user to use a 9v battery to externally power the lock in the batteries goes flat is also available.
Zwave or Zigbee upgrade kits give the Lockwood Digital Deadbolt even more Smart Lock functionality. These kits make this Digital Lock a great choice for Airbnb hosts by giving complete control over access codes remotely.
The Lockwood 001 touch was Lockwood’s second foray into the home Digital Lock segment. Built on the companies tried and tested 001 Deadlatch this lock retains the internally keyed cylinder. Making this lock one of the few true Digital Deadlocks. To open the lock there is a choice of either code or card. Extra access cards can be ordered in packs of 10 and multiple user codes can be set if the lock is changed into “advanced mode”. However the default “simple mode” is sufficient for most home users.
The size is what lets an otherwise great product down. It’s quite large internally, measuring 109 x 123mm for the internal body. There are some extra holes or fixing points required over a traditional 001 meaning that there will be some patching and painting to repair if wanting to revert back to a keyed cylinder. Aside from these small issues, the 001 Touch is a great high-security Digital Lock.
Our rating – 8.5/10
Samsung SHS-P718
Samsung SHS-P718
By far the most expensive option on the list the Samsung SHS-P718 proves that most expensive doesn’t always mean best. On the surface, this lock looks great with lots of great features including auto wake up, intruder and fire alarms. A high-quality fingerprint scanner, RFID tag, password and override key provide multiple options for opening the door. Given Samsung’s reputation for quality consumer electronics it’s not surprising that this is a popular choice for customers in the market for a new digital lock.
Unfortunately, it’s not all good for the Samsung SHS-P718. It is by far the biggest lock on the list, coming in at a huge 387H X 85W X 61D. The required minimum door thickness of 38mm, therefore makes it incompatible with a vast majority of Australian doors which are usually a standard size of 35mm. If your door does happen to be compatible with the Samsung SHS-P718 you’ll find that it won’t easily retrofit in place of your existing hardware. And once it’s installed, there are no other products that will fit in place meaning that if it fails, you’re left with a lot of patching up to do or worse – a new door.
our rating – 4/10
August Smart Lock (2nd Gen)
August Smart Lock
The August Smart door lock is unique in that it isn’t an entire lock and rather an attachment for your existing lock. The August unit easily retrofits on the back on any single sided deadbolt without any drilling or chiseling. An App controls the lock and can be connected to Alexa, Apple and Google assistant to allow voice control. Geofencing and the ability to lock or unlock the lock from anywhere. August also offers other products including a keypad and doorbell system that integrates with the lock in the same app making this product extremely versatile. As with many of the locks on the list, the august smart lock is not a deadlock, and the app has had reports of reliability issues. Hopefully, these can be fixed by the developers in the near future.
our rating: 7.5/10
We hope these short reviews have given you some insight in to which product best suits your needs. For more information or for Locksmithing services and quotes in Melbourne, Contact Asguard Locksmiths on (03) 9068 8225.
