Smart lock installation, explained
WiFi, gateway hubs, batteries and what happens on the day.
A smart lock is a digital lock you can control from your phone. Fitting one usually means drilling or adjusting the door, lining the lock up so it doesn’t jam or drain batteries, and setting up the app and codes with you. Remote access needs WiFi, and some brands need a gateway hub.
- On the day
- Fit, align, set up codes and app
- WiFi
- Only for remote access
- Gateway hub
- Some brands, e.g. Lion Head WiFi models
- Backup
- Every lock we fit has one
What happens on the day
1. Check the door
We look at the door type, its thickness and the existing holes, and whether it has a screen door in front. That decides which locks will fit properly.
2. Fit and line up
Most smart locks need new holes or the old ones adjusted. The bolt has to slide freely: a lock that drags works its motor harder, flattens batteries faster and jams sooner.
3. Set it up with you
We add the codes, tags or fingerprints, connect the app and show you how to add and delete users.
WiFi and gateway hubs
Bluetooth lets your phone open the lock when you’re nearby. To open it from anywhere, it has to reach your WiFi. Some locks connect directly; others, such as Lion Head’s WiFi models, use a small gateway hub plugged in near the door.
If the batteries or internet go down
The lock keeps working on its keypad, tag or fingerprint without WiFi. When the batteries run low most locks warn you well before they stop, and every lock we fit has a backup way in, such as a key or an emergency power point.
See the brands on our digital door locks page or the smart locks page.
Straight answers
Will my smart lock stop working if the WiFi drops out?
No. Codes, tags and fingerprints still work. Only remote access through the app needs the internet.
How often do the batteries need changing?
It depends on the lock and how often the door is used. Most warn you in good time, and changing them takes a minute.
Can you fit a smart lock to a screen door?
Some models suit screen doors and gates. Tell us the door type and we’ll suggest one.