Coming Soon: Wirelessly Charged Smart Lock Batteries
Today’s technology allows us added convenience in several areas of our lives, including home security. Keyless door locks and security systems make it easy to enter the home with a keypad, proximity card, or smartphone app. There is no more fumbling through your purse or pockets to produce a set of keys. You can unlock your door before you ever get to the front porch making entry into your home fast and easy.
Along with this convenience, however, you’ll find there may be a few glitches along the way. One of the most common problems homeowners have with keyless entry systems is the battery in their system dying. While every system is different, there are a few things you can do if this happens to you.
Advantages of Wirelessly Charged Smart Lock Batteries
The first wirelessly powered smart lock will be available later this year. The Alfred DB2S is the first easy-to-install smart lock that can charge through infrared power transfer, and it will be available for $299 at The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and other hardware stores. For the wifi charging connectivity, homeowners will need to purchase an add-on kit, but the benefits are clear. The Alfred ML2 smart mortise lock, which was officially launched for commercial real estate buyers in September 2022, will also have self-charging capabilities.
When it becomes available, the charging kit will include a replacement backplate for the lock that has a built-in Wi-Charge receiver, as well as a transmitter that requires constant power and line-of-site to the lock. It transmits electricity securely across up to 30 feet using infrared energy and can power numerous gadgets at the same time. According to Wi-Charge co-founder Ori Mor, the technology is FDA-approved.
Wirelessly charged smart locks are locks going to be the ‘wave of the future,’ using wireless charging technology to power themselves, eliminating the need for manual battery replacement or a chord connecting to an external power source. Wirelessly charged smart locks can be more convenient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly than traditional locks that require batteries.
Battery-Powered Locks
Electronic door locks, including smart locks, continue to grow in popularity because they are so convenient to use. When compared with the hassle of keeping up with keys that can be easily misplaced or even stolen, it’s clear to see why more people are opting for keyless locks.
Electronic keyless locks are extremely reliable, but like any other battery-powered device, there will eventually come a time when the battery’s power will run out. Fortunately, today’s keyless locks have been engineered to require only a very minimal amount of battery power per use. In fact, most keyless locks can operate anywhere between 3-5 years off the original batteries.
Most electronic keyless locks also come equipped with a low battery indicator light or warning sound, which will alert you well in advance when the battery is getting low. If you use a mobile app with your smart lock, the app will also notify you when the battery is ready to be replaced. You will know your lock is running low on battery power if it begins to work more slowly or operation becomes glitchy.
How to Replace the Battery in My Keyless Door Lock
While each keyless lock model is different, the process is likely the same. The only tool that you should need to DIY is a screwdriver. The battery compartment is usually found within the inside cover of the lock, so you’ll need to loosen the screws holding the cover in place.
Most keyless locks require premium alkaline batteries or lithium batteries of a specific voltage. Both Schlage Smart WiFi Deadbolt locks and Nest Yale Locks, for example, need four AA alkaline batteries. Simply take out the dead batteries and replace with new ones, firmly fitting the battery against the connectors in the right direction.
After replacing the batteries, replace the keyless lock cover and fix it in place by tightening the screws. Then, test the keyless locking and unlocking function to make sure it works properly.
Know Your Keyless Entry System
When your security system or keyless door lock was installed, you received a manual that detailed how to use the system. Make sure that you read it thoroughly so you know exactly what to do if your battery dies or you find yourself without power and need to access the home. Many have simple solutions that are easy to use and will allow you access to your home without compromising the security system.
What Happens When a Keyless Lock Battery Dies
Here are the three solutions to try if you discover that the keyless lock battery is dead and you are not able to replace the batteries immediately.
1. Traditional Key
Most keyless locks can still be opened and locked using the traditional key as a backup when power is lost.
2. Backup Mobile Operations
Many keyless systems now offer mobile app connections that allow you to access your system from your phone. If this is the case and you realize that your keyless door lock has no power, you can turn off the system using your mobile device.
3. Emergency Lock Override
Most keyless locks have override systems that allow you to bypass the lock and gain entry to the home without setting off alarms or notifying the authorities.
In the owner’s manual, look for information about the manual override option that will allow you gain entry into your home. Each lock model has a different override feature that will allow homeowners to open the deadbolt in case the device has lost power or is malfunctioning.
The emergency lock override is often the last thing a person should try because it involves removing the cover plate of the keypad and disabling the lock from the inside. Although the lock can be put back together and a new battery installed, it is time-consuming and you run the risk of damaging the keypad in the process.
Home Security with Keyless Lock Devices
Keyless locks are an excellent way to secure your home. They offer both convenience and security, but they also drawbacks that can make using them frustrating.
Take the time to check your system on a regular basis and properly maintain your keyless keypads so you don’t have to worry about the shelf life of your battery or where your keys may be located. It is also important to have a locksmith regularly check your system to make sure the batteries are good and alarms are working properly.
Is your smart lock not working? Read How to Fix an Electronic Lock.
At Great Valley Lockshop, we’re happy to answer any questions you may have about your keyless entry system and we can provide quick assistance if the battery dies. Give us a call today at 484-324-2986 to schedule your service!
