Expanding Your Smart Home with Smart Locks
Guest article by John Trewin
Smart locks were my first step into the world of smart home technology, and let me tell you—they completely changed the way I think about security and convenience. If you’re like me, you probably grew up with the same old lock-and-key setup. But once I got my first smart lock, there was no going back. I didn’t just upgrade my front door; I upgraded my peace of mind.
What I love most about smart locks is how easy they are to set up. Seriously, all you need is a screwdriver, a little patience, and maybe some coffee. No need to call a professional (unless you want to). These days, many locks come with built-in Wi-Fi, which saves you the hassle of buying extra bridges or gadgets.
Why Start with Smart Locks?
For me, it came down to two things: convenience and control. A smart lock doesn’t just let you lock and unlock your door with your phone. It changes the way you interact with your home. Forgot to lock up before heading to work? No problem—lock it remotely from wherever you are. Need to let the dog walker in but don’t want to leave a key under the mat? Just send them a temporary access code.
Plus, these locks aren’t just about convenience. They’re about feeling secure. My smart lock sends me alerts when the door is locked or unlocked, so I always know what’s going on at home. Some models, like those we sell at Prodillo, even integrate with other smart home systems. Imagine locking up for the night and having your lights dim and your thermostat adjust—all automatically.
What Makes a Good Smart Lock?
After trying a few over the years, I’ve learned to look for three key features:
1. Ease of Use: Installation should be a breeze, and the app should feel intuitive. Prodillo locks nail this—no complicated setups or manuals that feel like you’re reading another language.
2. Battery Life: Who wants to change batteries every month? Prodillo’s locks run for months on a single set, so you can just set it and forget it.
3. Security: Not all smart locks are created equal. Look for options that offer encrypted Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity. Prodillo’s locks are designed to protect your home against digital and physical threats.
One of my favorite features is the ability to ditch traditional keys altogether. Some locks even offer fingerprint scanning or fully bump-proof keyless designs. It’s the kind of thing that makes you wonder how you ever lived without it.
Here’s the thing: not all locks are compatible with every door. If you’ve got an unusual lock setup (like a mortise or Jimmy-proof cylinder), you’ll want to double-check compatibility. For most standard deadbolts, though, you’re good to go.
Also, make sure your home Wi-Fi signal is strong enough near the front door. A weak connection can lead to delays in locking or unlocking and may limit features like real-time alerts. At Prodillo, we’ve designed our locks to handle this, but it’s always good to check.
Why I Recommend Prodillo Locks
I might be biased, but Prodillo smart locks have been my go-to ever since I first installed one. They’re reliable, simple to use, and packed with thoughtful features like guest access and integration with your favorite smart home platforms. It’s a small upgrade that makes a huge difference.
If you’re on the fence about making your home smarter, I say start with a smart lock. It’s the easiest, most impactful change you can make. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.
