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How to Install a Keyless Door Lock? (Quick & Simple)

Fact checked by Teddy B.Miller

how to install a keyless door lock

Do you usually misplace your keys but don’t know how to install a keyless door lock?

If you tend to lose your keys, it is more convenient to have a keyless door lock. All you need to do is to write down your code or memorize it. T

If you only have to replace an old lock, you can remove it and install a keyless entry door lock. However, it is more complicated if it is your first time installing a lock in your door. This tutorial will guide you in upgrading the security of your house.

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What You Need

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Before proceeding with the keyless door lock installation, you have to prepare all the necessary items first. You can borrow some of the items from your neighbors or you can purchase them at hardware stores.

1. Keyless Door Lock

You can choose either a mechanical keyless door lock or an electronic one.

  • A mechanical keyless door lock includes metal buttons. It doesn’t need wires or batteries to operate, so it is easier to install. Aside from that, it will continue to function despite the power outages. However, it has limited features compared to an electronic keyless door lock.
  • On the other hand, an electronic keyless door lock is more complicated to install since you will be dealing with wires. It also requires batteries before it can operate. However, it has many features that you will surely enjoy.

2. Screwdriver

Check the screw heads of the screws to determine the type of screwdriver you need. If they are cross-shaped, you will need a Phillips screwdriver. If they are slotted, you need to prepare a flat-head screwdriver.

To prevent any inconvenience, make sure your screwdriver fits perfectly. A screwdriver that is too large may strip and damage the screws. One that is too small will make it difficult for you to tighten and loosen the screws. If you are not sure what size to use, prepare a set of screwdrivers.

3. Drill and drill bit (optional)

If you have to make some adjustments or create a hole for your deadbolt, you need to prepare a drill and drill bit. A cordless drill is recommended since it could provide you with more movement.

You can use a spade drill bit for the drill bit if you only need to make adjustments to the hole by making it larger and deeper. However, if you need to create a new hole for the deadbolt, a hole saw is recommended since it could create larger holes.

4. Chisel and hammer (optional)

You will also need a chisel to provide more space for the deadbolt and the strike plate. The sizes that you can choose from are ¼-inch, ½-inch, ¾-inch, and 1-inch. If you want a comfortable grip, a beechwood handle is recommended.

To effectively drive the hammer, you must choose a hammer that has twice the surface area of the head of the chisel you need to hit. A club, also known as a lump hammer, is heavy enough to drive a chisel. You can also use a ball-pein hammer for this purpose.

What to Do When Installing a Keyless Door Lock

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Step 1: Remove the old lock

If you have an existing door lock, you have to remove it first. Do this by unscrewing the bolts that hold the lock cylinder in place.

Once done, you can take off the lock cylinder. If you want to replace the whole set, you will also need to remove the doorknob.

Step 2: Try to fit the new lock and make some adjustments

Once you have removed the old lock, check if the new lock fits perfectly, or you have to make some adjustments.

If you have any issue with the fitment, you can chisel away some of the material to provide larger space for the new lock. Don’t also hesitate to deepen or drill new holes if they are necessary.

Step 3: Install the new lock and test if it is working properly

Install your new keyless door, making sure that it is properly aligned. Fix the wiring of the lock, checking that they are connected properly.

Now, you can secure the lock by attaching the plate and securing it with mounting bolts.

Don’t forget to put batteries in the lock to power it on. Test if the lock is working by entering your code.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Keyless Door Lock Be Easily Hacked?

It depends on the lock you use. There are keyless door locks that have additional security features to prevent your locks from being hacked. Some of these are smartphone remote access, live updates, and multiple access codes. With these, you can check if someone is trying to hack your lock.

How Will I Set the Code of My Keyless Door Lock?

  • If it’s mechanical, you only have to look for a screw then turn it. Once done, flip the latch on the lock to clear the code, then enter your new code.
  • For an electronic keyless door lock, provide the master code to set the lock on a programming mode. After that, enter the new code for your lock.

What Will I Do in Case I Forget My Combination Code?

If your lock can be accessed through a smartphone app, you can reset and generate a new code in case you forgot the old one. However, if you cannot access it through an app, you can contact the manufacturer and submit a lost combination form. They will send your code through the mail for security purposes.

What Are the Different Forms of Keyless Door Locks?

The different forms of keyless door locks are combination door locks, fingerprint door locks, facial recognition door locks, and fob door locks. The most common of them is the combination door lock, where you have to enter the code on a keypad. It is also typically used in public places like supermarkets.

How Much Will It Cost Me if I Pay a Locksmith to Install a Keyless Door Lock?

If you pay a locksmith to install a keyless entry deadbolt, it will cost you about $194. This may vary depending on your location. However, installing keyless entry by yourself will only cost you $105. You will be able to save more if you try installing it on your own.

Conclusion

Is following our tutorial on how to install a keyless door lock make your lock more secure and convenient? You don’t have to struggle to look for your keys while your hands are full of grocery bags. Also, you don’t have to worry about being locked out of your house because of missing keys.

Do you know some friends who are planning to upgrade their locks to a keyless one? You can share this post with them to help them out. You could also tell us your experiences while you are following the tutorial, simply leave a comment below.

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