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Locksmiths have evolved with the times and today you can find several professional locksmiths that can handle virtually any type of locking mechanism. Whether it is a traditional lock and key system or a keyless entry system, modern and professional locksmiths can provide several services under one roof.
Many businesses and residential spaces are opting for keyless entry systems due to their high security and convenience over traditional locks. However, these tech-based locks can be quite difficult to install, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot.
This is where locksmiths come in.
Locksmiths are certified to install, operate, and maintain keyless entry systems so that the system works as intended and without fault.
In this guide, we will go over some of the top locksmith tips for maintaining your keyless entry systems and everything that you need to know about professional locksmiths.
THE MODERN PROFESSIONAL LOCKSMITH
Locksmithing is one of the oldest professions in the world. There has been historical evidence that hints towards people using crude but complex tools that resemble lock picks. Initially, locking mechanisms were wood-based and used across centuries to protect valuables.
As technology progressed, we started to come up with new lock designs and incorporated sturdier materials to help us secure our possessions. Locksmithing also began to become a norm in society with every neighbourhood having access to several locksmiths for their traditional/electronic locks.
Here are some of the different types of professional locksmiths for various types of properties:
Residential locksmiths
Residential locksmiths focus their efforts on home locks and security. They are certified and highly trained to maintain, repair, and install locks in homes. Certified locksmiths can also conduct a security audit for locks in your home and help you identify security gaps and how you can use traditional or electronic locks to secure your home.
Commercial locksmiths
Commercial locksmiths work on buildings, offices, schools, hotels, warehouses, and factories. These locksmiths are highly trained professionals who have all the complex tools to work for enterprise clients. These locksmiths follow strict building regulations as well so you can be confident that they will work using all the required SOPs to secure your property.
Commercial locksmiths can open and change locks and help with a variety of other services that may include installing and servicing electronic and digital locks, and master keying.
Automotive locksmiths
Locksmiths cover everything that uses locks, including cars! Getting locked out of your car can be quite frustrating and without access to a locksmith, you will perhaps never be able to access your car without at least damaging it in the attempt to open it.
Automobile locksmiths can replace, repair, and update car keys. They can also reprogram remote controls and smart keys – both of which require skill and expertise to bypass properly.
KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEMS
A keyless entry system is a form of access control that, instead of using a physical key, uses electronics and various authentication methods to unlock a door.
Authentication can be in the form of access cards, access codes (PIN), proximity fobs, fingerprints, retina patterns, facial recognition, and voice recognition.
TOP LOCKSMITH TIPS FOR MAINTAINING KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEMS
Here are some of the top locksmith tips for maintaining keyless entry systems:
Keep the System Updated
Perhaps the biggest reason why people run into trouble with keyless entry systems is outdated software. It is the nature of technology to evolve, and with each iteration of software, the hardware gets better as well.
Furthermore, updating the software for your keyless entry system can significantly help it operate as intended for longer. For example, if a keyless entry system is showing signs of software bugs, then a software update or a software refresh can quickly help you fix the issue without having to take the system apart.
These updates can also enhance user experience and make the system even faster than before. This is why locksmiths usually start by checking the firmware for keyless entry systems because a problem in the firmware can often result in problems in the hardware.
Replace Batteries
Smart locks or independent keyless entry systems that work on solar or battery power require periodic battery replacement. These systems operate on batteries so that they can work even during a power outage.
If the system is operating on a low battery, the hardware may start to malfunction. This is common with older security systems with deteriorated batteries. In this case, if there is a power outage and the battery doesn’t operate properly, you might not be able to access the property.
You should aim to replace batteries twice a year for the best results and to keep the system running smoothly.
Clean the Sensors
Cleaning the sensor may seem like a no-brainer, but you would be surprised by just how many times a keyless entry system can malfunction due to a build-up of dust on the sensors. The good news is that these sensors don’t require constant cleaning. Just periodically cleaning the sensors should be enough to keep it running smoothly.
Furthermore, certain environmental factors also apply here. For example, if there has been a dust storm or if the sensor has been exposed to water, then gently wiping it with a lightly moist or clean microfiber cloth should clean it right away. Avoid using alcohol or other harsh chemicals to clean the sensors as they can end up damaging them.
Consider Power Backups
If your system exclusively runs on the grid, then we highly recommend that you consider keeping a backup power source for the system. Even though power outages are rare, if it does happen, you should provide an adequate rechargeable power source for the system so that it runs smoothly.
Some keyless entry systems have a fail-safe mechanism that allows for easy access even if the system doesn’t respond, but you should aim to keep the system on at all times so that every entry/exit is logged in the system.
Notify Bugs in the System
Keyless entry systems are robust and hardly ever show signs of fault. However, if you updated the firmware/software of the system and noticed a bug then you should immediately notify the manufacturer so that they can address the problem immediately.
In most cases, you can revert to the old software but if there is an issue, then the manufacturer or an expert locksmith can easily help you with the system.
If there is a hardware problem, then you will need to bring in a professional to examine it. We recommend reaching out to the manufacturer for information and then calling a professional locksmith to remedy the issue before it becomes a potential problem.
Use Strong Access Codes
Make sure that you don’t have “password” as your password!
The idea behind a PIN code or alphanumeric code is to provide security so you should always aim for a unique passcode that can’t be guessed. We recommend that you either remember this passcode or write it down in a private and secure journal.
DO NOT share PIN codes with others since it may jeopardise the security of your system. Instead, some keyless entry systems have the option for a temporary PIN or “Guest PIN” that you can share with people for temporary access.
Educate the Users
Keyless entry systems are quite intuitive and easy. However, it would be wise that you make sure that all the users are well-versed in how to use the system and how to quickly troubleshoot small errors.
For example, if the system doesn’t recognise the PIN, then you could either opt for another form of authentication or call a family member/user who is well-versed with the system to help you gain access to the property.
Opt for Periodic Inspections
One of the best ways to ensure that the keyless entry system is working properly is to have a professional check the system periodically. This can not only help you identify potential problems, but the locksmith can also clean or calibrate the sensors so that they run smoothly.
This way you don’t have to do anything since the professional will look after the system and keep it running 24/7.
Use a Secure Network
If you are using a smart keyless entry system, then it will likely use cloud computing or IoT (Internet of Things) technology to connect to the internet or other security hardware.
In this case, you will have to make sure that you use a reliable and secure router that can maintain a secure connection. We recommend going with any modern router from a top networking hardware brand.
Since the keyless entry system can be accessed through the network, you must secure the network using strong passwords and limit the number of users or “clients” that can connect to the system.
Immediately Register the System
Keyless entry systems can quickly be configured and installed; however, most people make the mistake of not registering the product with the manufacturer upon installation.
When the product is not registered, it may not work properly and you may miss out on important updates – not to mention, you won’t be able to access the warranty of the device until you register the product.
If you don’t know how to register the product, you can call in a professional locksmith who can not only help you install the system but also make sure that it is registered and is working properly.
As mentioned above, all the points discussed above are part of any professional locksmith’s services. So, if you go with professional help, you will rarely have to worry or think about the system!
ADVANTAGES OF USING PROFESSIONAL LOCKSMITH SERVICES
While you may think that you are tech-savvy enough to easily configure a keyless entry system yourself, when it comes to securing your property, you must leave it to the professionals to properly configure the system so that you don’t have to worry about any security gaps!
Something as simple as not registering the product or not configuring a sensor properly can significantly increase the risk of a security breach for your property.
Here are some benefits of using a professional locksmith service for your keyless entry system:
- Professional locksmiths use regulations, SOPs, skills, expertise, and experience to work with all kinds of locking mechanisms.
- They can help run a risk assessment on your property and locks and other security measures.
- They can recommend tailored solutions for each client.
- They can keep you up to date with the latest lock technologies and are familiar with quality products.
- They provide a holistic package that not only includes installation but a variety of other services as well.
- They are quick and skilled with vast experience, which means you don’t have to wait a long time for the system to be up and running.
- They offer emergency callout services.
- They carry specialised tools needed to carry out the job in the least amount of time.
- They offer services with insurance, which means that any damages done to your locks or doors will be covered by them.
- They have transparent prices and quotes.
- They provide services of the highest standards using the latest guidelines and regulations.
We highly recommend that you choose the right professional locksmith since most “professionals” claim to have locksmithing skills but are just amateurs with some experience with keyless entry systems.
Keep in mind that these systems are highly complex and their sensors are delicate. Any wrong move can seriously damage the device and cost you time, money, and inconvenience. This is why we suggest that you go with a top-reviewed security company like Calder Security for all your locksmith needs.
CONTACT CALDER SECURITY
You need to be able to trust the locks you have on your property, but you also need to be able to trust whoever installs them. You need to know that they are skilled in the task and that they are honest and trustworthy tradesmen.
We at Calder Security have been members of the Master Locksmith Association (MLA) since 1976 and can work on a wide range of locking mechanisms including keyless entry systems.
We are experienced in creating sophisticated access control systems for residential properties, large-scale commercial enterprises, as well as smaller businesses.
We are SSAIB-approved installers and offer all types of access control systems including intercoms, proximity fobs, access cards, and keypads. We also offer biometric systems that work with fingerprints or retina scans.
We are specialists in wooden, UPVC, and aluminium doors, and the official suppliers for leading lock brands including Chubb, Yale, Securikey, and Garrison. Our team of experienced professionals can advise on the best types of locks for your residential and commercial needs.
In addition to installation services, our professional locksmiths also offer repairing services for when the locks become damaged or develop faults and may not require changing, and are also fully conversant in business master key systems.
Our qualified locksmiths have an in-depth knowledge of all kinds of locks and can often repair them on-site. We can also access locks that have become jammed, including safes, and can respond to your calls quickly which can be very useful if you’ve locked yourself out.
We also offer expert key-cutting services from our Lock & Safe Shop in Wakefield where you can get your keys cut while you wait.
Contact us here or call us at 0800 612 9799 to talk to our professional locksmiths right away!
Photo by Evelyn Bertrand on Unsplash