Is the hassle of traditional or mechanical door locks getting difficult for you?
Then you may consider getting your security and safety upgraded with electric door lock installation as soon as possible. With the way the crime rates are increasing, your homes and offices’ safety might be at risk from intruders.
Electronic door locks not only offer advanced security but also high-tech features such as keyless access, which eliminates the need for the use of physical keys.
These locks can be accessed through key fobs, cards, biometric verification, and codes. The access can be assigned to multiple users, making it a safe and convenient option for both homes and offices.
Many people are adapting to this security measure and getting the electric door lock fitting done.
In this blog, we will be explaining the types, pros & cons, and top 5 tips you can use while installing an electronic lock.
What is an Electric Door Lock?
Electric door locks, as the name suggests, use electricity to function. The current uses a solenoid, electromagnet, or motor and pairs it with a fail-safe or fail-secure as preferred.
A fail-safe stops working when the power cuts off and unlocks the system. Whereas, fail-secure will keep it locked.
During the electric door lock installation process, access control products are connected to the electric lock system. This enables the smooth function of the lock system. The products that control access are keypads, buttons, cards, etc.
Mostly residential and commercial places get electronic lock installation to have an extra sense of security and safety. These locks will remove the chances of any unwanted access to the buildings.
What does the Electronic Lock Installation Process include?
As mentioned already, the fitting works on electric current, making the access entirely controlled by electrical impulse. The lock can be accessed by a key card, a passcode, or a fob.
It doesn’t matter which type of lock you’ve chosen; what matters is that the door lock has an electric current to function. Without any electric impulse, it wouldn’t open.
However, many electric door locks provide an added feature that may be used as an emergency access—the physical key slot—installed during the set-up.
Electronic door lock fitting usually involves three elements: the main unit, a sensor, and a solenoid. The main unit is installed on the door, the sensor detects any unwanted presence, and the solenoid unlocks the door after inserting the correct code or access key.
This kind of lock fitting usually provides features like keyless access, access using biometrics, and remote-controlled access.
Must Read: Everything You Need To Know About Fingerprint Door Locks
Types of Electronic Door Locks
There are many electric door lock installation services available in India. Some of the most popular choices are described below:
1) Magnetic Door Lock
These locks are also commonly known as electromagnetic locks or maglocks. Magnetic door locks are budget-friendly and require low maintenance. So those looking for something easy to install without a hassle, then this is the best option for you.
It consists of two parts: a magnet installed on the door and an armature plate attached to the door frame to allow the electromagnets to clamp on it.
Mostly, offices, residences, and hotels get magnetic electronic door lock installation done for reliable security and a quicker installation process.
2. Electric Push Bar Locks
Premises looking for added safety and security for electric door lock installation are choosing push bar locks for this purpose. These types of door locks are a safe choice for fire codes and can be used for emergency exit purposes.
Push bar locks are attached to the surface of the door of the main entrances of the premises. You can also use them as side exits or for stairwell door frames. These doors can be accessed by a card reader, sensor, keypad, etc.
3. Electric Strike Lock
Electric strike locks are compatible with metal and wooden doors. There are two elements of these door locks: a bolt and a strike plate. The bolt is usually inside the lock and is clamped to the strike plate installed on the doorframe.
When the access is authorized, the bolt gets released from the strike plate, opening the door. Businesses are more likely to get strike-based electric door lock installation done, as they require a simple installation process with no hassle.
Strike lock can be fail-safe or fail-secure, according to your preference. The lock can be accessed either by key fobs or cards.
4) Electric Cylindrical Locks
These locks may look similar to those traditional locks, but the difference is they function through the electric current.
Cylindrical locks are installed on the doors and connected to the power supply.
It requires a proper wiring process during the electric door lock fitting; that is the only complex process. These locks can be both fail-safe and fail-secure as well.
5) Keyless Door Lock
These locks might be the most popular for residential blocks, apartments, and offices. These door locks can only be accessed by those who have access to the code set.
Keyless door lock installation is a quick and easy process and very convenient considering the number of people that’ll be using the door many times a day.
Pros of Installing an Electronic Door Lock
Electric door lock installation provides many safety and security benefits for residential and commercial premises. Here are some of the major advantages of eclectic door lock fitting:
Advanced Security
The electric door locks have features like fingerprint, facial recognition, or other biometric verification, codes, cards, etc. to provide advanced safety and security that traditional locks fail to provide.
Convenience
The electronic lock installation eliminates the need for keys. The advanced keyless lock system can be accessed by a PIN, cards, and other biometric means. You can stop worrying about misplacing your keys all the time.
Remote Controlled Access
Many electric lock fittings often have a separate remote-controlled access. You can provide temporary access to your guests or other visitors without sharing your lock codes.
Easy Access
You won’t have to worry about losing your keys and putting your security at risk anymore. Electronic door locks are also more convenient for disabled individuals.
Simple Management
You can easily manage these door locks. The access can be provided to multiple individuals. You can distribute the access among your family members, friends, flatmates, roommates, and employees.
Personalized Settings
You can customize the door lock set according to your preferences. You can adjust the auto-lock system, set up an alarm or notification bell, and more.
Must Read: Top 12 Benefits of Smart Locks For Home
Cons of Installing an Electronic Door lock
Despite being an advanced security upgrade, electronic door locks may have some disadvantages. Here are some of the cons of installing electric locks:
Cost
The initial expensive cost of the electronic door lock can be a bit disadvantageous in comparison to the regular mechanical locks. However, they are a one-time investment in the long run and people don’t want to compromise with their safety these days.
Need for Power Supply
Electric door locks need a power supply to function, and in alternative cases, a battery. If the electric current is not supplying power you’ll need a backup or manual access.
Technical Errors
As much as the electric door lock installation is an advanced fitting for safety, it is not immune to the occurrence of technical errors. They’re usually safe and secure, however, rare cases of hacking and other threats are possible.
Post-installation Maintenance
There might be situations where you’ll be required to get a maintenance and repair check on your electronic door lock fitting. Especially in the cases of malfunctioning.
Complex Installation
Most of the time the electric door lock installation is simple, however, some locks can be difficult to install. This mostly depends on the types of locks you’re choosing and their features.
Non-sustainable
Electronic locks are not sustainable as the environment is affected greatly. Although, this is the case with most electronic devices.
Recommended Read: How to Protect Smart Door Locks From Cyber Attacks
Top 5 Tips for Electric Door Lock Installation
If you’re looking to get the electric door lock fitting at your residential or commercial premises, then we have a few tips you can make use of during the whole process. Here’s what you should start with:
1) Choose the right door lock
There are numerous options in the market but you should choose what suits your preference the best. Find the options that best align with your budget and cater to the specific features you need.
There are locks with simple installation processes but some locks, such as deadbolts may require complex electric drop bolt lock installation.
2) Professional assistance
Many of you may be tempted to attempt the installation yourself but it’s better to hire professional assistance with skilled workers. The locks are initially expensive and the damage may cause you unnecessary loss.
3) Evaluate the surface of your door
Firstly, you should determine which type of lock works for the surface of your door. In case you have a glass door, then magnetic door locks work best for them. However, metal or wooden doors have other better options.
4) Testing
After you’ve gotten your electric door lock fitting, you must immediately run a thorough test. Check all the features and functions such as access check, code insertion, and other biometric verification.
5) Backup
If you have chosen a door lock that is powered by a battery, then you may also consider getting an extra battery to avoid the lockouts.
Final Thoughts
So, this was all about the types, advantages, disadvantages, and a few tips we have shared with you via this blog. Hopefully, this was an interesting read for you and helped you be informed about the electric door lock installation process.
In simple words, electric door lock fittings require a power supply to function. The types of locks are mostly compatible with both fail-safe and fail-secure systems. The electric door locks can be accessed via a card, code, key fob, and other biometric means.
If you’ve decided to upgrade the security of your residence or commercial building, Keyenzy has got you covered. We are the largest platform in India that connects you with a skilled locksmith in your city. Fill out our quick form now to get quick installation services near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I install an electronic lock myself?
Ans. Yes, you can install an electronic lock yourself. However, there is a risk of damaging the lock or your door. You can hire professional installation services.
Q. Is there any electronic door lock installation near me?
Ans. You can connect with Keyenzy for installation services assistance. We’ve thousands of technicians spanning nationwide to help you get your smart door lock installed within minutes.
Q. Can I get an electric door lock installation on a glass door?
Ans. Yes, surely you can secure the glass door with an electronic lock system. Magnetic locks are specifically compatible with glass doors.
Q. What are the popular brands for electric door locks?
Ans. Godrej, Yelp, Dorset, and Golens are some of the most popular electronic locks brands in India.