How to Pick a Kwikset Smart Lock
Introduction
Smart locks are a growing trend in the security industry. Kwikset is one of these companies, with their products being both affordable and easy to install. Kwikset offers three different models of Smart Locks, starting at $139 for the Kevo Plus, up to $229 for the Kevo Premis Touchscreen Deadbolt.
All three models come with built-in Bluetooth that can be used with an app on your iPhone or Android device for remote lock/unlock capability without ever needing a key.
The third model also comes equipped with Z-Wave technology, which can be integrated into many home automation systems like Control4, Crestron, and Savant, so you have complete control over every door in your house from anywhere you have an internet connection. This article will discuss how to pick a Kwikset smart lock in detail. So let us get started.
A Detailed Stepwsie Guide on How to Pick a Kwikset Smart Lock
The smart lock has the latest technology and is equipped with a keypad for timers, entry codes and can be controlled from a smartphone. If you have not already purchased your smart lock, you may want to jump over to my other article on buying a smart lock.
The first step in picking any standard pin tumbler lock is to locate the “cylinder” (the part of the lock that opens when you turn the correct key or combination), which contains all five pins stacked together inside it.
If we crack open our lock and look at the pins, we can see that each stack of pins is contained within its own “cylinder.” So now that we know where the cylinders are, we need to find the first cylinder.
The first step is to insert your pick into the keyhole and locate the top pin. You will want to make sure that your selection is in the correct position before moving on to the next step.
Once you have located the top pin, you will gently lift it until you feel some resistance. At this point, you will want to apply pressure with your pick and pull UP on the hole. This will cause the bottom pin to rise up and out of the hole. You should now be able to see all three pins in the stack.
The next step is to locate the second pin and gently lift it until you feel some resistance. At this point, you will want to apply pressure with your pick and pull UP on the hole. Again, this will cause the bottom pin to rise up and out of the hole. You should now be able to see all three pins in the stack.
The last step is to locate the third pin and gently lift it until you feel some resistance. At this point, you will want to apply pressure with your pick and pull UP on the hole. This will cause the bottom pin to rise up and out of the hole. You should now have a free-floating top pin.
At this point, you will want to carefully turn your pick and push DOWN on the third pin. This is a crucial step because you need to ensure that all of the pressure is being put on the bottom pins rather than allowing them to support each other. If there were no bottom pin (or it was set too high to allow us access), then we would not be able to open our lock!
Once you have successfully pushed down on the third pin, gently lift on the top pin and apply upward pressure with your pick (the same technique used earlier). By applying upward pressure with your selection, you will cause the headpin to rise and meet with the second pin, allowing us access to another cylinder.
Now that we have pushed up on both of our top pins, we can move on to the second cylinder. The next step is to locate the bottom of each stack and push down slightly until you feel resistance. You should then be able to use your pick and push UP (the same technique used earlier) and allow all three pins in a stack to rise:
Once you have located all five cylinders, it is time to start picking one at a time while applying downward pressure on each pin using your pick. This part takes some practice and is the most challenging part of choosing any standard pin tumbler lock. The following video demonstrates what you need to do:
Once all five pins are picked (you will know when they pop up and stay there), then you can turn your key or combination and open your lock! I hope this article helps those who still have locks but now want to keep their house safe from intruders! If you run into trouble, feel free to let me know to help as best as possible.
Precautions While Performing How to Pick a Kwikset Smart Lock
When selecting a Kwikset Smart Lock, you should keep a few things in mind. One is that not all locks are created equal – some are more suited for specific applications than others. For example, the Kevo lock is Bluetooth-enabled and can be opened with just your smartphone, while the traditional SmartKey lock can be rekeyed yourself in seconds if you ever lose your keys.
Another thing to consider is your existing door hardware. Kwikset Smart Locks come in both single-cylinder and double-cylinder varieties, so make sure you pick the right one to match your existing deadbolt.
Installing a new lock may require some drilling and sawing, so if you don’t have the right tools or essential do-it-yourself experience, talk to a local hardware store about hiring a professional to install it for you.
Advantages of Using a Kwikset Smart Lock
There are many advantages of using a Kwikset Smart Lock. Some of these advantages include:
1) Increased security – A Kwikset Smart Lock provides increased protection for your home, as it can be programmed to accept only authorized keys. You can also give specific temporary “virtual” keys, which are deleted automatically after use.
2) Convenient key management – Kwikset Smart Keys quickly and easily rekeying your locks. When changing the basic configuration, you typically only need to replace the faceplate rather than the whole lock. You can also control access by giving or revoking virtual door keys from mobile devices.
3) Increased energy efficiency – Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth®-Enabled deadbolts integrate with third-party home automation systems, allowing power for unlocking to be cut off once a door is unlocked. This enables users to tap their phone on the deadbolt after opening it without worrying about battery life.
4) More convenient locking – Kwikset Kevo Bluetooth®-Enabled deadbolts can be unlocked with a simple tap on the outside of the door. As long as you are close enough for your phone to communicate with the lock, it will unlock without requiring you to take out your keys.
Disadvantages of Using a Kwikset Smart Lock
Some disadvantages come with using a Kwikset Smart Lock over an old-fashioned lock and key system. Some of these include:
1) Lack of compatibility – A smart lock only works within its ecosystem, so you won’t get any advantages if you use it in combination with another home automation system. The lock won’t receive commands from other devices outside the Kwikset network. This means that you should avoid buying an intelligent lock if you’re planning to add home automation devices in the future.
2) Possibility of the lock “breaking” – There is a chance that your smart lock might break or stop working correctly after a few months of use, so it’s not advisable to choose a Kwikset Smart Lock as your permanent security solution for your home. If this happens and you can afford it, you’ll have to call a locksmith and install a new key system.
3) The need for separate apps – Most people don’t consider this factor before purchasing their first-generation Wi-Fi-enabled smart lock. To unlock your Kwikset Smart Lock, you’ll need the Kwikset app installed on your phone. If you misplace your phone or it runs out of battery, you won’t be able to get into your house. This can be a major inconvenience if you’re not expecting it.
4) The potential for hacking – One of the most significant disadvantages of using a Kwikset Smart Lock is that they are vulnerable to hacking. If a hacker gets access to your home’s Wi-Fi network, they could potentially unlock your door without your permission. So, if you’re going to choose a smart lock, you must take measures to protect your home network and its information.
The last and final factor you should consider is whether or not your home needs a smart lock. If you’re already happy with the security measures in place, then there’s no need to change things up drastically. In that case, choose a model that features easy installation, and don’t worry about finding a lock that works with other smart devices.
On the other hand, if you’ve been feeling unsafe lately and want to make your house more secure, consider getting a standard deadbolt for your door, which doesn’t include any locks or keys at all!
Conclusion
I hope you have obtained a clear idea of how to pick a Kwikset smart lock. You should ensure that all the steps are correctly followed. The precautions included in the discussion should also be observed with proper discretion. Thank you and have a nice day!
