Day: April 24, 2020

If you’ve ever lost or forgotten a set of keys somewhere and you were unable to get into your house, you may want to consider getting a smart lock.

But even those that aren’t forgetful can benefit from installing a smart lock on their door. The additional security, connectivity, and remote capabilities smart locks give you ease of access even when your hands are full. And when used in conjunction with a doorbell camera, the smart lock can help you verify visitors remotely before giving them access to your home.

If you’re passionate about Internet of Things (IoT), If This Then That (IFTTT), and have been looking to streamline the way you enter and exit your home or any property, a smart door lock will fit right in with the rest of your smart home devices.

What Is a Smart Lock?

A smart lock is simply a lock that communicates over a home automation protocol such as Z-Wave to link up to other devices in your home security system.

When combined with a smartphone app, you’re able to lock and unlock your door from your phone. Smart locks can sometimes be entirely controlled through a touchscreen, while others have number pads or regular keyholes.

Linking your smart lock with other devices gives you more control over your home while requiring fewer commands. You can synchronize your lights to turn on when you unlock your door, or have your thermostat turn down when you lock up on the way to work.

Things to Consider When Choosing Between the Yale T1L and the Kwikset Kevo 2nd Generation

There are several different kinds of smart door locks available, but the Yale T1L and the Kwikset Kevo 2nd Generation are two of the most popular options on the market.

Before we jump into a review of each, here are some questions to ask yourself when considering what kind of smart lock to purchase:

• Are you looking to improve the security in your home or just make access more convenient?
• What other kinds of technology would you like your smart lock to be compatible with?
• How many people will need to use the smart lock?
• Is it important for you to be able to use an app with your smart lock?

Once you’ve had a good think about all of these questions, you’ll find it easier to decide which of the two locks below will work best for you.

Yale T1L Overview

To kick off our review, we’ll start with the Yale T1L. With a solid brand name, it’s understandable that you’d be expecting something as reliable as other kinds of Yale locks.

In this regard, it doesn’t disappoint. The device is cylinderless—which means that no one can easily tamper with the lock—and the key code can only be accessed from the outside.

Style

The size of the smart lock is small, but it’s solidly built as you’d expect. And like previous Yale locks, the design is minimalist and classic.

The lock comes in three different metallic finishes: satin nickel, oil rubbed bronze or polished brass. All three have a sleek and rounded appearance, and you can even buy matching door knobs from Yale to create a unified aesthetic.

Features

• Rubber gasket to protect the lock from the elements
• 9V battery contact in case of emergencies
• Up to 25 programmable user codes
• Manual programming interface (no app) with audio commands
• Compatible with Z-wave smart home hubs (for an additional cost)
• One-touch locking
• Keypad with daylight visibility
• ANSI/BHMA Grade 2 security rating

Kwikset Kevo 2nd Generation Overview

The Kwikset Kevo 2nd Generation smart lock on the other hand looks very similar to a normal lock, but it has the added benefit of smart home functionality.

You have the option of using your key the regular way, or you can use your smartphone and the Kwikset Kevo app to unlock the door using Bluetooth.

Style

The design of this lock is simple and subtle. The only way you can really tell that it’s a smart lock is by the blue ring around the keyhole.

Utilitarian and straightforward, this lock is subtle to the point of being rather dull. But if price is more important to you than appearance, it’s definitely an option worth considering.

Features

• “Touch to open” technology using Bluetooth
• Option to use fobs to gain access
• Additional e-keys available online at no extra charge
• Smart home compatible (for an additional cost))
• IFTTT supported

Comparing the Yale T1L and the Kwikset Kevo

Ease of Installation

The Yale T1L is easy to install, but setting up key codes takes longer than it needs to.

On the other hand, Kwikset Kevo allows you to set up keys online using an app, which is definitely a more convenient option.

Ease of Use

Both of these locks are very simple to use. The Kwikset’s “touch to open” feature makes getting into your home as easy as pressing a button, but you also have the option of using a key if necessary.

However, while the “touch to open” feature is a crowd-pleaser, it’s really only basic Bluetooth technology. Unlike other automation protocols, Bluetooth is designed for short-range communication only, so you’ll be restricted in the IFTTT recipes you can choose from.

The Yale may not have as many programmable options. But, with a simple touchpad, it’s a much more streamlined option which you can enhance with further Z-wave functionality.

Smart Home Compatibility

Both locks are compatible with smart home hubs, but only the Kwikset Kevo is set up to work in tandem with Alexa.

As mentioned above, for both of these locks you’re going to have to invest in additional functionality to take advantage of any smart home capabilities.

Reliability

With a standard lock setup, the Kwikset Kevo device is sturdy but could potentially still be picked (with difficulty) like a normal lock. This device is also known to sometimes struggle a bit with commands. And even though it is tough, the smart lock is getting on in years.

The cylinderless Yale T1L, on the other hand, is a solid option because it’s impossible to try and crack the codes from the other side of the device.

Plus, we like that thought has been given to an emergency no-power situation with the addition of the 9V battery contact point (even though the AA batteries should last you for about a year).

Cost

In comparison to other similar locks on the market, the Kwikset Kevo is reliable but expensive if you compare it to other locks in the same category.

The Yale T1L, on the other hand, is a lot more competitively priced if you look at other similar types of smart door locks on the market.

Bottom Line

It all comes down to preference, but it must be said that even with all the additional functionality that the Kwikset Kevo lock provides, buyers may be overwhelmed by the array of features, many of which only appeal to a narrow audience.

While having a smartphone app might make it easier to set up the Kwikset Kevo lock in the beginning, it can become annoying to have to always have your phone or keys on you to access your home.

When it comes down to it too, a lock is all about being solid and not easy to tamper with. So while the Kwikset Kevo might have some crowd-pleasing features, the presence of a keyhole calls into question whether the device is truly tamper-proof, resisting lock picking and lock bumping.

While both options are solid and each of them has their pros and cons, overall we think the Yale T1L comes out on top because it is just a no mess, no fuss option that is less complicated and more secure.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), radon gas is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States behind smoking and is responsible for around 21,000 lung cancer-related deaths each year. The EPA estimates that one out of 15 homes in the U.S. has unhealthy levels of radon.

So what is radon? Radon is a radioactive gas that can be harmful to humans and animals when they’re exposed to high levels of it. Radon gas exposure is caused by a breakdown of uranium within the earth; the radon gas rises and enters through cracks and other holes in a building’s foundation.

What makes this gas so deadly is that it is undetectable by humans—it’s odorless and invisible. It doesn’t cause immediate health problems, but extended exposure to it does. That’s why you need specialized equipment to detect radon in your home or business.

How to Detect Radon Gas

There are a few different methods that you can use to detect radon within your home or business. The two main radon detection methods are active and passive tests.

The most common passive test uses a radon test kit that is sent to experts for analysis. Using radon test kits, property owners can measure radon levels for two to 90 days for short-term passive tests, or they can measure 90 days or more for long-term passive tests.

The radon kit is then sent to a laboratory, and the lab sends the property owner an analysis of the sample. These tests require no special training to conduct, so property owners can perform these tests themselves.

The other common radon detection method available for property owners is the active detection method. Active radon monitoring devices require a power source and can provide almost instantaneous results at any given time. These devices can provide both short-term and long-term results, but they’re usually more costly than passive radon detection kits.

Why You Need a Radon Detector

Exposure to radon for prolonged periods of time or in high concentrations can be deadly and lead to long-term health problems, such as lung cancer.

Using a radon gas detector or radon detection kit, you can identify radon gas levels within your home or business and prevent any unnecessary exposure to this harmful gas. If your building does test positive for radon, you can then act accordingly to prevent further exposure.

One method for eliminating radon gas exposure is sealing off any cracks or gaps in the building’s foundation. Sealing and venting areas of exposure can also help reduce radon levels. Preventing further exposure is straightforward once you know you have high levels of radon.

The 3 Best Radon Detectors on the Market

It’s important to know your building’s radon level so you can keep your family or employees healthy and safe from its dangerous long-term health effects. These active radon tests will help you do just that and provide you with both short-term and long-term results and monitoring. Here are the best radon detectors on the market today.

Radon Eye RD200

Using the latest in smart technology, the Radon Eye RD200 boasts 20 times the sensitivity compared to other radon detectors. That’s because its dual-structured pulsed ionization mechanism enables it to provide more accurate detection.

The Radon Eye RD200 provides its first reliable results within the first hour of operation, meaning you no longer need to wait extended periods of time for accurate results.

A useful feature of the Radon Eye RD200 is its ability to log and share data to your smartphone or PC, allowing you to conveniently observe and monitor radon levels within your home or business. This data can be easily exported to Excel so you can view and manipulate the data easily in a spreadsheet.

The Radon Eye RD200 displays data in a graph format to ensure you can easily understand the results and readings provided. Additionally, the device supports Bluetooth connectivity via an app so you can easily access the device using a smartphone or tablet.

What we like:

• Quickly provides accurate and reliable readings, allowing you to get immediate results
• Data can be easily accessed through Bluetooth connectivity and an accompanying app
• Much more sensitive than competing devices
• Data can be exported directly to your PC or smart device in a graph or spreadsheet format

What we don’t like:

• At over $200, the device is a little pricey

Radex MR107

The Radex MR107 is an active radon detection device that is highly sensitive and provides accurate and reliable results. This device is suitable for both home and workplace environments, and it is user-friendly.

In addition to its primary radon detection functionality, the Radex MR107 also provides additional features, such as relative humidity and temperature measurement, to provide you with more comprehensive results. This device comes with Windows software that you can download and use for free.

Using this software, you can easily transfer data gathered by the Radex MR107 to your PC and analyze and monitor the results within your home or business. Another useful feature is an adjustable alarm that is triggered when the device detects unsafe levels of radon.

The Radex MR107 also measures the surrounding radon levels relative to the surrounding temperature and humidity, ensuring more accurate and relative results. This provides you with a more complete picture and additional context so you can track dynamic changes in surrounding radon levels more reliably than with most other devices.

What we like:

• The ability to transfer results to the free Windows software is useful and helpful
• Additional features such as humidity and temperature readings provide more context when compared with relative radon levels
• User-friendly design makes the device easy to use for both home and business owners
• It retails for under $200

What we don’t like:

• Lack of a built-in interface makes results more difficult to identify
• Can only be charged via USB, and the battery lasts for up to six days

Corentium Home by Airthings

The Corentium Home is a portable lightweight radon detection device that provides accurate results within 24 hours. You can view results easily with its built-in LCD screen without the need of any external devices. This allows you to conveniently monitor radon levels in your surrounding environment.

This device is resistant to a variety of environmental and physical conditions, such as electromagnetic interference, dust, and weather. This helps ensure that its readings are accurate and reliable.

Boasting a two-year battery life, the Corentium Home can provide long-term results and monitor your surrounding radon levels with great precision. You can easily replace the three standard AAA batteries, allowing your device to last up to 10 years.

What we like:

• Its portability allows you to conveniently monitor radon levels in various locations
• High resistance to electromagnetic and environmental conditions ensures more reliable results
• Built-in LCD screen allows you to view and monitor results immediately without the need for any external devices
• Two-year battery life and replaceable AAA batteries allows for long-term use
• Its price—under $150—means you get great value for good functionality

What we don’t like:

• Unable to export and transfer data to a PC or other devices

Where to Place Your Radon Detector

Once you’ve selected the radon detector that will work best for you, make sure you follow instructions and place it properly in the building you’re testing.

Because radon gas rises up from the ground, place the radon detection device or test kit in a room that is closest to the ground for the most accurate and reliable results. For example, if you have a basement, you should place the detection unit there.

For the best and most accurate results, you should keep all windows and doors closed during the testing period prescribed by your device or test kit. In long-term tests, however, closed house tests conditions are not necessary.

Tired of scheduling your life around guests’ arrival times or getting locks rekeyed when guests misplace the keys?

Smart locks offer a simple solution to people who manage vacation rental properties. By using smart locks, you can facilitate self check-in and checkout for your guests by using passcodes that expire when your guests check out.

Plus, an electronic lock makes your Airbnb rental more secure: Some models connect to your smartphone and smart home devices, allowing you to monitor who comes in and out of your rental.

Best Smart Locks for Airbnb

With a smart lock you can save time and money from not having to physically meet someone for check-in. Plus, offering self check-in via a smart lock can make your Airbnb rental more appealing, meaning your listing will attract more bookings.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the different types of smart locks out there, so here’s a shortlist of some of our favorite smart locks for Airbnb rentals on the market right now.

August Smart Lock Pro + Connect

The August Smart Lock Pro + Connect is one of the best smart locks for Airbnb because it attaches easily to a deadbolt. This lock can be operated with your smartphone and is compatible with Amazon’s Alexa system, which lets you control your front door using your voice.

The lock is incredibly feature-rich. It comes with August Connect Wi-Fi Bridge for connectivity to a smart hub. It also has a locking mechanism that allows it to automatically lock and unlock your door and will let you know if your door is secured with DoorSense.

You can control and monitor your door from anywhere with the August Smart Lock Pro + Connect. You can keep track of people who come in and out of your door by checking your smartphone.

What we like:

• Can easily be installed in 10 minutes with a screwdriver
• Auto lock and unlocking mechanism
• Compatibility with apps (compatible with Amazon’s Alexa)

What we don’t like:

• Higher price tag than average for smart locks
• Some features require additional purchases

Nest x Yale with Nest Connect

The Nest x Yale smart lock is one of the best locks on the market, but it comes at a hefty cost. The biggest issue with the lock is that you are somewhat limited to the Nest ecosystem.The second biggest downside of the Nest x Yale smart lock is the cost. You’re mostly paying for the design and extra functions, and the build quality could be better. This is an issue considering the lock’s high price.

If you want a smart lock that blends in with the modern aesthetic of your home, then this may be the smart lock for you.

What we like:

• Seamless integration with Airbnb for easy check-ins and checkouts of your rental property
• August app can be used for door monitoring
• Easy installation
• Fail-safe connection

What we don’t like:

• Extremely sensitive to positioning on installation
• No key override

Kwikset 99130-002 SmartCode

The Kwikset SmartCode 913 is one of the most basic smart locks on our list. While it is easy to use and set up, the design and interface of the touchpad are dated, and lacking in some of the bells and whistles you might see on competing products. However, if you just need something that’s robust and functions well, this is the smart lock to get.

Not needing Wi-Fi to set up the lock is a main selling point as some Airbnb rentals do not have internet access. The lock is also fairly cheap compared to the others on this list, making it an attractive buy for Airbnb hosts.

This Kwikset smart lock is harder to install than other smart locks as the instructions aren’t as clear as they could be. If you’re not great with tech, look up user-written instruction guides on the internet for this lock. Kwikset’s tech support is pretty helpful, too.

What we like:

• Perfect for big families
• No Wi-Fi needed
• Easy to use

What we don’t like:

• Outdated design
• Despite the name, this lock isn’t all that “smart”

Schlage Z-Wave Connect Camelot

Schlage is known for its high-quality locks for hotels and office buildings. They have brought this same lock quality to their home smart lock lineup with the Z-Wave Connect Camelot.

This smart lock doesn’t draw attention to itself: The numbers on the unit remain hidden until you press the Schlage button, so in idle it won’t light up and waste battery life.

The Schlage Z-Wave smart lock also includes a built-in alarm to warn you of unwanted visitors. Along with the alarm, the lock has other functions such as auto locking and beeping on open. And even with all these features, its battery usage is efficient. Some users report that a single battery with normal use lasts up to one year.

Some users report moisture getting into the control module, so if your Airbnb is in a humid climate, then this may not be the smart lock for you.

What we like:

• Works with Alexa via SmartThings, Wink, or Iris
• Built-in alarm system
• Efficient battery usage

What we don’t like:

• Only for US and Canada
• Bulky design

Samsung SHS-3321 Digital Door Lock

Last but not least is the Samsung SHS-3321 smart lock. This sleek smart lock is perfect for Airbnbs concerned with design aesthetics.This Samsung lock has all the features you would expect from a high-end lock, such as good design, Wi-Fi connectivity, ability to add multiple codes, and automatic lock and unlock modes. The only real complaint about this lock is the installation, as you have to torque the backplate correctly.

Other than those few quibbles, the Samsung SHS-3321 is a reliable smart lock for your Airbnb rental.

What we like:

• Can use an RFID card
• Digital touchpad
• Loud built-in alarm
• Great design

What we don’t like:

• Weak motor compared to competing devices
• Installation is harder than it has to be

4 Major Factors to Consider Before Buying a Smart Lock

Let’s break down the major things to look for when choosing the perfect smart lock for your Airbnb rental.

1. How easy it is to change the code

Believe it or not, there are bad people out there who may want to access your property after they have checked out of your Airbnb. Making sure the code can be changed easily will save you lots of time, and you won’t have to worry about previous guests re-entering the rental.

2. How easy it is to adjust the lock to fit your door

If every door and lock were built to a standard dimension, it would be easy to fit a deadbolt lock to your door. But they are not. Some are not aligned correctly, and some holes in the doorframe are not deep enough to accommodate the deadbolt rod.

Make sure you are either buying the right spec for your door or that the deadbolt on your smart lock is adjustable.

3. Durability and weather-proofing

Airbnbs endure a lot of use, and your smart lock needs to be able to withstand that heavy load. Make sure your Airbnb smart lock is built of quality materials that will stand the test of time and the elements.

4. Integration with existing smart home devices

With so many different home automation kits out there these days, you need to be sure your smart lock will work with your existing home automation protocols.

When you buy a smart lock that integrates with your other smart home devices, you can see who is coming in and out of your Airbnb with cameras, see check-ins and checkouts, and even change the code. How easy is that!

FAQs About Smart Locks

We know you have lots of questions about smart locks, so let’s go over some of the most common questions we get about using smart locks for an Airbnb rental.

How do smart locks for Airbnb work?

Using a smart lock for your Airbnb rental is quite simple. Once you’ve installed the lock, all you need to do is set a code, and then tell it to your guest over the Airbnb messaging system once their stay is approved.

This makes it easy because you don’t need to physically meet the customer to let them into your rental. Plus, self check-in is something some Airbnb customers look for when choosing their rental, so you may actually attract more bookings as a result.

Do smart locks need Wi-Fi?

Some smart locks need Wi-Fi, others don’t. Most of them only require Wi-Fi for setup and not day-to-day use.

Do smart locks need power?

Most smart locks run on an internal battery inside the unit. Once this battery goes flat, you can usually use a 9-volt battery or a key to get in depending on the lock.

Which smart locks are compatible with Ring?

Many smart locks are compatible with Ring, including locks by Schlage, Kwikset, and Yale.

Is there a monthly charge for smart locks?

Nearly every smart lock brand out there is an unmonitored solution to home automation and has no monthly charge.

There may be a premium smart lock out there with a monthly charge, but if there is, we don’t recommend it over a regular smart lock. The only monthly charge you should be paying is for your security system and any camera footage you’re saving.

Can smart locks be hacked?

Like anything digital, smart locks can be hacked. In this day and age, even your car can be hacked. But should you worry about it? No. The chances of someone with the ability to hack your lock and desire to break into your Airbnb are slim to none at best.

Purchasing a Smart Lock for Your Airbnb

A smart lock is a must-have for any Airbnb rental. A smart lock with self check-in increases the value of your Airbnb property and makes it easier for guests to access your rental.

Plus, it frees you from scheduling around your guests’ arrival and departure times, making your life easier as an Airbnb host. Not to mention that smart locks give you more control over who has access to your property and makes your home or rental more secure.

We hope our picks for the best smart locks for Airbnb rentals have made your purchasing decision easier. Just make sure you keep the factors in mind before choosing your smart lock. Choosing the wrong one could be a costly decision that is easily avoidable!

Smart bulbs and smart lighting systems are a great way to personalize your home’s atmosphere. Even a single smart bulb is a step towards making your home a smart home.

So if you’re thinking about equipping your home with smart bulbs, here’s some of the most important information about them. We’ll cover exactly what smart bulbs are, how they work, and why you should use them.

What are smart bulbs?

Smart bulbs aren’t just controlled with a simple on/off switch. You also have the option to control them with an app on your phone.

Additionally, you’ll also have full control over the color and brightness of the bulbs (depending on the model), so you can set the ambiance of your home.

Most smart bulb apps will suggest “recipes” which are basically just preset color/brightness combinations. Each recipe will be associated with a different feeling or energy. For example, some will promote concentration while other light recipes are designed to help you relax.

Smart bulbs and smart lighting systems aren’t just about impressing your friends with your tech-savviness at the next dinner party. They give you the freedom to control the light and atmosphere in each room, transforming your home into a more ideal environment to live, work, and relax in.

Benefits of smart light bulbs

If you’re wondering whether or not you should buy smart light bulbs, you’ll be pleased to hear that these bulbs have a number of benefits over standard lighting systems.

Turn any light on/off in seconds

If you forgot to turn off the light in another room, normally you’d have to make your way back to the room and flick the switch. If this light happens to be up or down multiple sets of stairs, or in a corner of the house that’s harder to access, this can mean a lot of wasted time traveling back and forth. But with a smart bulb, you can turn any light on or off, regardless of its location.

If you’re heading out, you can easily turn every light in the house off with a single tap or swipe. No running from room to room.

This also means if you’ve forgotten to turn off any lights when you leave the home and you don’t realize it until you’re sitting in traffic halfway to work, no need to sweat it! You can turn off the light remotely through your app.

Control lights with your voice

To make things even easier, if you connect your smart bulbs to a smart assistant like Amazon Alexa or Google Home, you don’t even need to use your phone to set the lighting to your desired level. You can just use your voice.

So if your phone’s out of juice, or it’s just too far away to reach, you can just call out a command and let your smart device do the rest of the work.

Conserve energy and save money

Most people find that when they get smart bulbs, they end up saving money on energy bills. Smart bulbs aren’t necessarily more energy efficient than regular LED light bulbs, but as you’re able to control them with your phone or your voice, you’re likely a lot more aware of switching them on and off.

You can often command all of the lights to turn off at once, which means it’s less likely that you’ll leave the odd light on by accident. You can also use smart timers to make sure lights turn off or on at a certain time.

Have full control over your home

There’s not much choice in terms of ambiance when you have a standard light bulb. Sure, you can sometimes get dimmer lights such as the Leviton Smart LED Dimmers and turn the brightness up or down, but with a smart bulb, you’ll have full control over your home’s lighting.

You can customize the color and brightness of the lighting in each room of your house. You’ll be able to optimize your home space for living, working, playing or relaxing.

How do smart light bulbs work?

Smart bulbs don’t just emit light, they also connect wirelessly to their neighbor bulbs and to smart devices such as a mobile phone, an Amazon Alexa or Google Home, etc. Philips Hue Smart Bulbs are one of the more popular smart bulbs on the market.

All smart bulbs have wireless technology, but some of them differ in terms of exactly what automation protocol they use. Some smart bulbs use Wi-Fi, others use Bluetooth connections. And some bulbs even give you the option of using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, depending on your preference.

What do you need for a smart lighting system?

If you’re wondering how do smart light bulbs work, you might be wondering if you need any extra equipment to set them up. The simple answer is, yes, as smart bulbs aren’t stand-alone devices. Here’s what you need to make your home’s lighting system “smart.”

You need to connect them to an app on your phone, and sometimes to a smart home device or hub. Smart hubs are like central gateways for your home. All of your smart devices can be routed through them, so that you can control everything in your home just by using a single device. Popular hubs include Nest, Wink, SmartThings, or devices like Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Apple HomeKit.

Hubs are especially useful if you want to set your smart bulbs up on a timer, or link them with a compatible doorbell camera. This way you can set your lights to come on at certain times, or when the doorbell rings.

That being said though, you don’t always need a smart home hub to set up a smart lighting system in your home. It’s just a good option if you have lots of smart devices that you want to integrate.

Ultimately, the main thing you need is your smartphone. It will be difficult to effectively use your smart light bulbs without the accompanying app. You just download the app, connect your bulbs, and then control them from your phone. In some cases, you can toggle lighting from the same app that controls your security system.