If the power is out, can I still get into my home with a smart lock? (2024)

FAQs

Do smart locks work during a power outage? ›

Yes, as long as the smart door lock is equipped with internal battery backup, a manual override option, or Bluetooth connectivity, it should remain secure and functional during a power outage; however, as with any security feature, it's important to purchase a reliable product.

Battery-powered smart locks will continue to work during a power outage, as they rely on the energy stored in their batteries. But if its battery drains, it will keep you locked out. On the other hand, hardwired batteries may cease to operate during a power outage.

Myth #1: Keyless locks will fail during power outages.

Fortunately, this is not the case. Keyless locks operate on battery power, which means that even if you experience a power failure in your home or business, your keyless lock will still function as normal.

Bluetooth-Enabled Locks: Some smart locks use Bluetooth technology to connect to your smartphone, allowing you to unlock the door when you're within a certain distance. This type of lock doesn't require a Wi-Fi connection but requires your smartphone to be within range.

During a power outage, what will happen to your smart home system? Any routines that required the internet or involves non-battery devices will not work. Local routines will work if you have a hub that processes data locally and has a backup battery.

The major drawback of the smart fingerprint door lock is hacking or a breach of privacy. Even though they make lockpicking less likely, hackers may nevertheless manage to get past the barrier and enter your home. They can target the lax digital security mechanisms on the lock to break into your network.

Losing your phone (or having it stolen) includes added risk when it includes a lock app. And smart locks use batteries, which need to be replaced regularly. As a result, it's wise to make contingency plans for these possible scenarios where smart locks become disconnected from Wi-Fi.

If your smart lock is connected to a mobile app or uses Bluetooth, you may still be able to unlock the lock even if the battery is dead. Ensure that your smartphone has enough battery power to establish a connection and use the associated app to unlock the door.

Smart door locks with physical keys

The manual override is helpful in the event of a smart lock failing - so having a physical key option is also useful.

The smart lock itself, being an electronic device, requires a power supply in the form of a battery. So your lock will include a small, hidden battery compartment. ADTs smart door lock operates off of four AA batteries and will notify you when the battery level is getting low and needs replacing.

What happens to the security system when power goes out? ›

Most home security systems switch to backup battery power during a power outage. If the system usually relies on Wi-Fi, it may also switch to cellular backup during an outage. Some brands only offer cellular backup in their premium plans, so be sure to double-check a system's capabilities before you buy.

Fail Safe Locks

Fail-safe locks operate on the principle that as long as power is supplied, the lock is active, and when an unlock is triggered, the power cuts out, and the lock opens.

However, most smart locks have backup batteries that kick in during a power outage, so they'll continue to work even if the power is out.

In most cases, users can still unlock the door by entering a PIN code, scanning their fingerprint, or using a physical key, depending on the smart lock model. However, even though the lock will continue to work, remote and smartphone use will be restricted until the network is restored.

Cons. Practicality. If you forget to charge your smartphone, you not only can't unlock your smart lock, but you can't call for help because your phone is dead. Maintenance.

If you need, you can use a 9 Volt battery to temporarily charge the lock, so you can enter your passcode on the lock's keypad to lock or unlock it.