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If you’ve moved into a house that already has a wired home security system, you may be wondering if it can meet your security and home automation needs.

Wired home security systems were the first security systems to be installed into homes, whereas wireless systems are a relatively recent invention.

While some of the older home security systems may need an upgrade to make them compatible with your home automation components or to improve on its security monitoring capabilities, the reality is that purchasing or renting a home with a pre-existing security system can help you in a number of ways.

The Benefits of a Wired Home Security System

No hardware costs and installation fees

One of the major benefits of stepping into a home with an existing home security system installed is that you do not need to buy the system and then pay someone to install it.

When it comes to wired home security systems, the installation fees can be high due to the amount of labor and time needed to perform the installation.

The process involves drilling into walls, laying wires in the walls and ceilings, and then once all that is done, filling in all of the unsightly holes that were created in throughout this process.

High reliability

Because wired home security systems are connected directly via a network of cables, their ability to communicate with each other and the control panel is hardly ever interrupted.

This makes wired systems effective for larger residential or commercial buildings where signals need to travel longer distances to reach the alarm panel.

Tips on Using Your Existing Wired Home Security System to Your Advantage

For integration with home automation systems

Nowadays, both wired and wireless home security systems can be integrated into home automation systems to add more features like smartphone control.

To determine whether the wired security system installed in your home is going to be compatible with your home automation, alarm monitoring, and security needs, start by getting a representative from the company who did the installation to make an assessment of the system.

To find out who did the installation, check the contact label on the control panel or alternatively contact the manufacturer of the system components.

Once the representative has assessed your system and given you their recommendations about the system, you will be able to make an educated decision about which aspects of it needs upgrading or will serve your needs.

Adding new components to your wired home security system

Many wired and wireless home security systems have parts that are cross-compatible and work together via a device called a wired-to-wireless converter.

You can take your existing wired home security system and add new components such as cameras, motion detectors, as well as door and window sensors to the areas in your home that are not protected, or areas where security can be improved.

As long as your wired system is not too old, then you should also be able to integrate keyless deadbolts, video doorbells, light timers etc. into the system, even if you have to make some minor hardware upgrades to achieve it.

With the correct control panel installed, you can download an app onto your smartphone that connects with the control panel. Once you’ve done this, you can control your entire home security and home automation from a central point.

Wired vs. Wireless Home Security – Typical Concerns

The convenience of being to control everything from a single point and the ability to monitor your system from anywhere are why people choose a wireless security system.

Are the wires themselves a weakness of wired security system?

A common misconception about wired home security systems is that cutting through the system’s wiring will disable the alarm and prevent it from triggering, allowing someone to break into your house undetected.

Cutting wires will not disable your alarm. However, cutting communication wires such as your telephone line that connects to an alarm monitoring service will prevent your control panel from contacting the monitoring service. However, this also applies to wireless systems that use a landline to connect to the monitoring service.

Connecting your control panel to a monitoring service using cellular technology is a good way to protect your system from potentially being disabled from damage to your landline. In fact, it is becoming more and more common for people to use a cellular connection for their home security system as more and more people abandon their use of landlines.

What happens when the power goes out?

While wired systems rely on electricity for their power, backup batteries offer some protection in the event of a power outage. While the backup battery will not last indefinitely, it will provide some protection until the power is restored.

Wireless systems solely reliant on battery power are also prone to failure if the batteries run out. Because of this, batteries need to be checked and replaced periodically.

If you’ve moved into a home that has an existing wired system in place, it may be worth having it assessed to see if it can provide you with some protection.

In many situations, all it takes is updating certain elements of an existing security system to keep your home and family safe without having to invest in a completely new system.

In this day and age, technology provides powerful protection for an affordable price. If you are serious about keeping your home safe, a fence, locks, and cameras aren’t going to cut it. To truly protect your property, invest in a security system.

Security systems perform a whole host of critical functions, including:

• Protecting against theft
• Protecting against property damage or vandalism
• Monitoring the traffic in and around your home
• Guarding against intruders
• Calling for help in medical emergencies
• Deterring criminals from breaking in
• Keeping track of pets and young children

Two basic types of home security systems are on the market today: wireless and wired security systems.

Wired security systems use existing electric and telephone lines to connect each piece of the security system, making moving equipment and adding on additional elements a complex process.

Wireless security systems are the next generation of security equipment: They offer comprehensive protection, lower installation costs, and easy upgrades.

Essentially, a wireless security system is comprised of alarms, sensors, cameras, and various detectors all connected to a main control panel via radio signals.

With the variety of security systems on the market, it can be a bit complicated to understand the differences between types of sensors and equipment, and it’s tough knowing whether to purchase a wireless or wired home security system.

To add to the confusion, many people have preconceived notions of which security methods are best based on anecdotal evidence or outdated information.

That’s why our focus is centered around the latest research and decades of security expertise.

In this guide on the difference between wired and wireless security systems, you’ll learn:

• How wireless security systems work
• The pros and cons of a wireless security system
• Common types of wireless security systems
• Typical costs of a wireless security system
• Essential features for your wireless security system

How Do Wireless Security Systems Work?

Wireless systems, including sensors, cameras, and alarms, work using radio frequency technology instead of wires.

There are countless models of wireless security systems, all of which work similarly with minor variations. When a wireless device picks up anomalous activity, it tells the alarm that something isn’t right, triggers the 85 dB siren, and the alarm monitoring service calls the police on your behalf.

Pros of Wireless Home Security Systems

While people often assume wireless security is less safe than to wired systems, industry veterans know that this is far from the truth.

Wireless home security systems offer several advantages over hardwired security systems.

Quick installation

Wireless systems can be installed within minutes. You don’t even have to be tech-savvy to do it. Because you don’t need to drill holes or tackle tricky wiring, self-installation is common and eliminates installation fees, saving you time and money.

Portable and hassle-free

Packing your security system and moving from one home to another is a piece of cake with wireless security systems.

Because everything is simply stuck onto the wall and not hardwired, removing cameras, detectors, and other components of a wireless security system and putting them up in a new location takes minutes, not days. If you rent and move frequently, wireless systems are the way to go.

Remote smartphone access

Wireless systems can be monitored on the go with a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Your key fob offers another way to arm and disarm the system if you’d rather not use a smartphone app.

Battery Backup

Although wireless systems work with electricity, most models can switch to a backup battery if the power goes out. If there’s a power outage in your neighborhood, wired systems will lose power along with the rest of your house unless you have a backup generator.

If you have a wireless security system with a backup battery, you stay protected during a power loss event.

Cons of Wireless Home Security Systems

Cheap wireless systems can be hacked: Low-quality, outdated wireless systems do carry a risk that hackers can jam detector signals. You might remember the news surrounding SimpliSafe back in 2015 after a SimpliSafe customer figured out that their security system was vulnerable and publicized the fact via YouTube. However, you can avoid hacking if your system has strong data encryption.

Some wireless systems are vulnerable to structural or electromagnetic interference. Radio frequencies go around solid objects; they cannot go through them. So placing sensors in the correct locations is key if you want them to work correctly. Your alarm company should inform you exactly where each part should be installed so there is no confusion.

Another consideration with wireless home security systems is the limited range of sensors. Most radio frequencies are weak outside a range of 500 feet. This means that you have to structure your wireless system with this in mind, especially if your property is larger than 4,500 square feet.

For properties larger than 4,500 square feet, wireless sensors start becoming less reliable, so we highly recommend using a wired security system instead.

Types of Wireless Security Systems

Wireless security systems come in many shapes and forms. The main difference between them is the equipment. The simplest wireless home security systems have Wi-Fi alarm monitoring, sensors, and a control panel with a siren.

Devices that monitor potential household dangers, such as fires and carbon monoxide leaks, can be incorporated into a wireless alarm system.

Advanced wireless systems, on the other hand, offer users a wide range of possibilities. Features like remote smartphone access, text and email notifications, and web access give you more control to monitor and adjust the system from anywhere. This is why advanced systems that leverage the latest technology have become so popular.

Top-tier systems offer additional valuable security features such as doorbell cameras, smart lighting, and keyless deadbolts. At this level, you can employ some of the most powerful hardware available to the consumer market to keep your home secure and simplify your life.

Another differentiating factor of wireless systems is the way the system communicates with third parties in an emergency. Wireless systems fall into two key categories: monitored and self-monitored systems.

Monitored systems

Monitored systems are overseen by an alarm monitoring company and enable security personnel to immediately contact the authorities in case of an emergency.

Monitored systems give you added peace of mind because trained emergency professionals are watching over your home around the clock.

Self-monitored systems

Self-monitored security systems are generally cheaper and have lower monthly costs, if any. The only drawback is that the job of calling local authorities falls to you in an emergency.

Self-monitored systems make use of loud alarms and bright lights to warn you of an intruder or breach. You can also receive alerts on your smartphone if your device is connected to your security system.

How Much Do Wireless Security Systems Cost?

Three factors will determine the cost of a wireless home security system:

• Installation
• Equipment
• Monthly monitoring

An average home security system can cost between $300 to $1,500, depending on the capabilities and features of the system. Monthly fees associated with 24/7 alarm monitoring wireless systems range from $0 to $75.

If you want to save money and have basic home improvement skills, we encourage you to try a self-installation process for your wireless security system.

If that sounds overwhelming, get a professional alarm technician to install your system. They will also make sure that you know how to operate it properly and that everything functions as it should.

Professional installation ranges from $350 to $1,200 depending on how comprehensive you’d like your system to be. Many companies offer package deals that include installation with a primary wireless system if you also sign up for their monitoring services.

Features to Look for When Purchasing a Wireless Security System

The main reason you want a wireless security system is to make sure that your home is fully secured at all times. To ensure this, there are a few key questions you should ask when deciding which wireless security system is right for you:

What happens in a power outage?

The primary power source for most wireless security systems is electricity from the wiring within your home. However, you should make sure that your wireless home security system has a fail-safe in the event of unforeseen circumstances.

A good wireless system should have an alternative source of power, such as solar energy or batteries, in the event of a power outage, especially in an area like New England where snowstorms and falling trees are a common occurrence.

What is the range of its detectors?

Wireless systems use radio frequencies that are only effective up to a certain radius. If you have a large home, you will need a system that has a long reception range and can handle a more substantial amount of information and signals. Remember: A home larger than 4,500 square feet is generally better off using a wired system.

What additional features does it have?

Depending on your budget, you can opt for a system that includes smoke detectors, flood sensors, and carbon monoxide detectors. It all boils down to your personal needs.

Some wireless home systems are only for detecting burglars and trigger a siren to scare off the intruders. Others notify security companies of a break-in or emergency.

Does it integrate with your smart home technology?

Today, most homes make use of smart devices that can be controlled via smartphone. If you already own smart home technology, it is essential to know if your wireless security system can be incorporated into it so that you can control every device from as few apps as possible.

Integrating your wireless security system with your smart home takes your system beyond basic security and makes your home smarter and more efficient.

Smart home features for wireless security include HD video viewing via wireless security cameras, energy use tracking with programmable thermostats, and other kinds of residential access control like smart locks.

Having all of this functionality at your fingertips makes you realize how much easier life can be when there are fewer things to worry about.

Ask these questions when determining the right wireless security system for you. To find out if our local, family-owned company might be a right fit to install your home security system, contact us today at 617-221-8524 for a free quote.

 

Do you have a residential or commercial security system? If so, you need to keep reading.

What Is the 3G Sunset?

In the event you haven’t heard about the upcoming alarm 3G sunset, let’s get you up to speed about the importance of migrating to LTE or even 5G networks for your security systems.

The 3G sunset refers to the impending point in time where manufacturers and carriers will stop manufacturing and supporting devices that use 3G networks.

For those that use these networks, there is not much time left to make the switch because the 3G sunset is not too far behind the 2G sunset.

Why Is 3G Being Phased Out?

So, why is this happening? The simple answer is that it’s time for something new. With the arrival of 5G, the natural progression is for carriers and manufacturers to start phasing out their older networks to make room for the new networks. Most ALL have already stopped supporting 2G networks, and 3G cellular upgrade will follow shortly.

What is the difference of LTE vs 3G?

We are now entering a period of transition from 3G/CDMA networks to long-term evolution (LTE) networks. LTE can be up to ten times faster than 3G/CDMA. It is important to remember that the 3G network was built to support voice and limited data transfers. The modern consumer simply requires much more from the network, rendering the question of whether to move to LTE vs 3G moot.

How Challenging is this Impending Move?

The sun will go down on 3G/CDMA soon. But the 3G sunset dates are still in flux. Different carriers have different dates. For instance, AT&T has stated February 2022 will be the end of their 3G network. Verizon says they will drop 3G at the end of 2022, with exceptions for some machine-to-machine (M2M) devices including IoT (Internet of Things) security products.

To avoid catastrophe, any alarm panel that communicates exclusively over these legacy networks will need a new modem cellular communicator in the next year or so.

Many consumers likely do not know how their security system communicates with a central monitoring station, interactive service, or smart home as a service. A terrible scenario would be them waking up in the middle of the night to the blare of a fire alarm, but no response.

When Should You Migrate?

Your devices that are supported by 3G networks could lose important data and functionality if you don’t make the switch to LTE before your carriers drop them.

If you have any IoT devices operating on a carrier’s network, then you’ll lose that function for them as well. You will also need to make sure you have taken everything into account when migrating to a new network because more than likely most of your devices are connected.

If you haven’t already, you should begin converting all of your 3G/CDMA network devices to LTE network devices right away. While some carriers won’t drop 3G/CDMA support until after 2022, there are others such as Verizon that will stop after December 31, 2022. Depending on your carrier, you could lose that 3G support in a couple of months. If you haven’t started the transition, you should start now as the dates could change.

Concerned? Start with a Checklist

If you do not know how to begin migrating your devices, here are a few things you can do to start the process:

• Take Inventory: Consider all of your devices and take note of the network type they are operating on. Also, ascertain which carrier supports each device. These two factors will determine which devices need to be upgraded or replaced.

• Determine Priorities: Determine how you use your devices, whether for business or for personal use. Then decide what types of devices you will need moving forward. This will help you decide whether or not to update their networks. You may decide that it may be more cost-effective to eliminate some devices rather than migrate them to a new network.

• Schedule Migration: You don’t have to migrate your devices all at once. Set up a schedule where you can migrate your devices based on priority. Considering the long-term, it may be a good investment to migrate some of your devices up to the new 5G LTE networks now. If you plan on keeping certain devices for a long time, upgrading them to the latest network sooner rather than later can save you significant time and money in the future.

Systemic Challenges to Migration

The big alarm providers are – well – alarmed by the prospect of migrating all of their customers. By some estimates, half of US alarm system subscribers are connected to the 3G network. Upgrading all of those subscribers would require over 100,000 service calls every month for the next three years or more.

The big alarm companies are going to struggle to change over all of their customers.

These large companies are going to likely charge up front $200-$500 and increase your monthly rate. Make sure your company is pricing fairly.

The crush of customer complaints could also overwhelm their call centers. It takes a long time and many steps to get from a phone call to the installer knocking on the customers’ door let alone trying to set up an installation for something they do not want.

So now what?

The solution? Work with a local alarm company that focuses on customer service and responsiveness.

In order to maintain an active cellular communication path, it is crucial that you upgrade to an LTE communicator. LTE stands for “Long-Term Evolution”, and AT&T is expected to support their LTE network for many years to come. Most alarm systems that we support currently have an LTE communicator available, while others should be releasing one in the coming months. We recommend checking through our selection of cellular communicators to see if an LTE communicator is available for your system.

If you are affected by the alarm 3G sunset, now is the time to take action. You still have an opportunity to keep your system monitored or upgrade to a new system if necessary. The best thing you can do is contact Alarm New England immediately. We can verify which communicator your system is using if you aren’t sure. If you do need an upgrade, we can make a recommendation.

If you need help in obtaining devices with the latest networks, we can help. We want you to stay monitored and protected. That is our absolute top priority as a company. If you are affected by the alarm 3G Sunset, we urge you to reach out to us. Likewise, we also urge you to reach out to us if you are not sure. We can check your equipment and confirm whether or not an upgrade is needed.

Our team at Alarm New England can build a completely new alarm system or upgrade the equipment you already own. Reach out to us today. Let us get you set up!

A storage unit is a perfect place to keep your valuable belongings—as long as the storage unit is securely locked.

To protect your storage unit and the possessions inside it, it is imperative to buy the best storage unit lock. Standard locks can be manipulated and broken, and they can be easily bypassed by a committed criminal. On the other hand, a good lock for a storage unit is one that is difficult to break. It is usually thicker and has a protective casing to deter bolt cutters.

Best Locks for Storage Units

Here are the best locks for storage units that ensure safety and protection. The following locks have special locksmith mechanisms that are hard to break or tamper with.

4 Digit Combination Lock by Desired Tools

Desired Tools knows their way around locks. They’ve successfully designed a lock that can’t be picked easily, even by professional burglars using a lock pick gun.

This lock is resistant to cutting and sawing thanks to its plated steel and weatherproof zinc alloy material. These materials make picking the lock more difficult. The shackle is rather thick, which means it can’t be drilled into; you feel the material’s sturdiness when you have it in your hands.

The key feature of this lock is the four-digit combination. You have a total of 10,000 possible combinations, and you can pick any combination you want. It’s nearly impossible for a thief to crack the code. If you are buying this kind of lock for the first time, setting your digit code won’t be a problem. The company provides an extensive online guide explaining how to configure the lock.

This storage unit lock is available in different dazzling colors, too. You can choose vibrant colors like red or blue or remain subtle with silver or black.

Desired Tools provides a 30-day manufacturer’s warranty, so your purchase is protected. Even the digits on this lock are clear and easy to press because of their embossed design.

What we like:

• Lightweight and compact
• Setting the combination is very straightforward
• Zinc alloy construction keeps it rust-free
• Weatherproof

What we don’t like:

• Spam emails from the company that promote other products
• If you reset the codes again and again, you can face some jamming issues

Master Lock No. 930DLHPF

When it comes to strength and durability, the Master Lock No. 930DLHPF wins. It comes with a hardened boron alloy shackle, which is known for its sturdiness and is often used for storage units, residential fences, and residential gates.Though it looks small and compact, the lock is surprisingly heavy. This is the strongest lock Master Lock has ever created—and it’s one of the strongest shackles on the market. It protects against bolt cutters and hacksaws.

For even more security, the lock has dual ball bearings and a five-pin cylinder. This locking mechanism beats even the lavish locks with fancy combination locks and fingerprint systems because it is so hard to pick.

Be mindful that the thickness of the shackle can create a problem for some people. The 11-millimeter diameter can be too big for some uses. For that reason, before buying this lock, ensure that the diameter will fit well with your storage unit.

Another key feature of this lock is the 9,000 key changes for added security. This makes it practically impervious to picking attempts, even by expert lockpicks. People have tried picking this lock to test its security, and according to them, this lock requires far more skills than any other lock they have attempted. Besides, because of its sturdy material, it is very hard to put the right pressure on the lock to make the pin fall and open.

What we like:

• This is one of the strongest and heaviest locks on the market
• High corrosion resistance
• Dual ball bearings protects against prying and hammering
• Works well in all weather conditions

What we don’t like:

• Shackle is too big and can’t fit in some holes
• Lock’s finish is not premium quality

The Stanley Hardware steel padlock leaves its competitors in the dust when it comes to sturdiness. This lock is ASTM security grade 5, which we don’t see in other locks on the market. This security grade means it can be used for high-security protection indoor and outdoor and that the lock is capable of protecting against all kinds of attacks.

Stanley Hardware’s patented keyhole cover ensures that lock pickers can’t drill into the keyhole, which is the most common way to pick the lock. The lock has many other tamper-preventing features that provide a strong defense. For example, the locking mechanism has stainless steel ball bearings to prevent any illicit prying. Expert lock pickers would be frustrated after finding out the pins won’t work on this lock.

The best reason to buy this lock? It’s designed for industrial use. This shows the quality of this product. The lock doesn’t have any vulnerable parts that give burglars access to the mechanism. That’s why it truly stands out as a titan of protection.

What we like:

• Six-pin cylinder has anti-pick pins
• Patented keyway cover protects against drilling
• Virtually impenetrable hardened steel body
• Meets all the rugged demands of the job

What we don’t like:

• Smaller in size
• Shackle is too thick to fit in some holes

ABUS Padlock Diskus 20/70

The ABUS Padlock Diskus 20/70 is great for storage units. The Diskus padlock is a different type of lock known as a disc lock, which is a recent addition to the market that’s growing in popularity.

The key difference between the ABUS Padlock Diskus 20/70 and other locks on our list is that the Diskus provides a small opening in the shackle so there’s almost no room for cutting or drilling the shackle. This feature makes it rather difficult to tamper with the lock.

Experts call the Diskus padlock a tough cookie to beat because both the design and quality are straightforward and intuitive. ABUS has continued to develop this padlock design into the market leader it is today. And it shows in how effectively the lock resists the most common ways of forcing it open.

The 20/70 in the model’s name refers to the series number of this ABUS lock (20) and the outside diameter (70 millimeters). The 20 series is the highest evolution of the Diskus locks; all the lock’s components and features have been improved to maximize security.

The 70 in the product name refers to the lock’s 70-millimeter outside diameter. But the outside diameter is less important than the diameter of the shackle, which is 10 millimeters. This can be too large of a diameter for some lockers, particularly school or gym lockers, but for most storage units, as far as we have seen, a 10-millimeter diameter is fine.

What we like:

• The entire product is stainless steel
• Key variations can’t be outmaneuvered easily
• Deep welding technology prevents all kinds of lock-cutting attacks
• It makes too much noise when drilled or cut

What we don’t like:

• The only way to get replacement keys is to contact ABUS and get them directly from Germany, where the lock is custom-made
• Extremer cold weather can cause it to malfunction

WGCC Fingerprint Padlock, Waterproof

If you have tried combination locks before and aren’t satisfied, try this innovative padlock from WGCC that uses biometric technology. It is convenient and looks like a traditional lock, but its fingerprint technology and automatic recognition system make it stand out from other locks on our list.

One of our favorite features about this lock is its compatibility with the iOS HomeKit. If you want to let someone unlock the lock remotely, you only need to tap the button or ask Siri to do it for you. Plus, it allows you to keep a list of specific people who are allowed to unlock the lock, like trusted friends and family.

Because this lock is a smart padlock, it can potentially run out of power. The good news is it runs on a rechargeable battery that lasts 40 days with heavy use; you don’t have to recharge it over and over to make it work.

If the battery does run out, the lock will simply remain locked, meaning your storage unit will stay protected. Once you connect the lock to a power source, it begins its operation and works normally.

What we like:

• Lock is made from a fireproof zinc alloy
• It includes a pin for easy resetting
• The customer support team is friendly and supportive
• You’re not overly reliant on an app, it just helps during initial setup

What we don’t like:

• Poor recognition if finger is wet or dirty
• Complicated instructions for the pairing process

Master Lock No. 141D

If you’re looking for everyday protection at an affordable price, opt for the Master Lock No. 141D. It is designed for both indoor and outdoor use and provides a new level of security that we don’t often see in consumer-grade padlocks.

The strong construction of this Master Lock padlock prevents lock picking. It gives you a feeling of security and gives you confidence in leaving your precious belongings in your storage unit. There won’t be any kind of theft from your storage unit with the Master Lock protecting it.

Master Lock manufacturers have constructed this lock with a black vinyl-covered aluminum body that’s resistant to scratches and corrosion. This product resists the harshness of the weather and works 24/7. Moreover, the 6-millimeter diameter shackle is cut-resistant and made of hardened steel. This shackle is longer than most shackles on the market, and you won’t have any trouble using it in tight spaces. Also, the diameter of the shackle isn’t too thick; you can insert it in small holes too.

This Master Lock padlock is economical and affordable, and it has a dual-locking lever mechanism that makes the lock tough to pick. Plus, the company sends two keys with it for added convenience. If you ever misplace one, you have another to unlock it.

What we like:

• Vinyl cover makes it corrosion-resistant and scratch-free
• High-grade aluminum offers more security
• Dual-locking lever makes it safer
• Small size means you can use it for other purposes as well

What we don’t like:

• Shackle is hardened but not too thick
• Lightweight, can seem cheap

Buying Guide for the Best Locks for Storage Units

How should you choose the best lock for your storage unit? We’ve assessed the features of many locks and done a lot of research. These features are what you should look for if you want your storage unit to be protected.

Lock Type

Locks for storage units are available in different types and designs. For example, you have smart padlocks or disc locks. Both are exceptionally resistant to tampering.

The type of lock also decides its price. The simple rule you need to remember is the more you pay for the lock, the more security you get. For example, you’ll spend more money on a smart lock, but it’s an investment in a failsafe mechanism. Without confirming the fingerprint, a smart lock doesn’t unlock itself. In addition, it has some customization options that add extra security.

On the other hand, traditional locks are durable and hard to break, but they can be manipulated with pins. A professional lock picker can unlock them within a few minutes.

Shackle Diameter

Some shackles are incredibly thick and are almost impossible to cut, because extra coatings on them make them cut-resistant. These locks look solid, but due to the diameter of the shackle, it becomes impossible to use them because the shackles don’t go inside the hole. This is a real problem, especially in school and gym locker rooms.

Apart from checking that the thickness of the shackle fits your lock, don’t forget to check the length of the shackle too. Though you’ll be able to put long shackles inside the hole, the problem is that they aren’t sturdy. They can be easy prey for robbers; a monster claw bar can cut them easily.

For outdoor use and storage units, we recommend disc locks. They have concealed shackles and they don’t provide enough space for burglars’ tools.

Lock Material

The type of metal used to manufacture the lock will determine how sturdy the lock is.

The most common material for locks is solid steel. This is the most famous material and is trusted by almost everyone as it is hard to cut through. For that reason, most locks are made of solid steel.

Brass, boron, and molybdenum are also reliable materials for locks and are known for giving a high level of security.

FAQs About the Best Locks for Storage Units

Got a question about storage unit locks? We have the answer. In this section, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions about storage unit locks.

Is it necessary to buy a lock with a difficult locking mechanism?

It is not necessary to buy a lock with a difficult locking mechanism; in fact, you shouldn’t buy a lock with a difficult locking mechanism. A lock should always work smoothly and not waste your time. If it’s a real hassle to lock or unlock it, it may have hardware issues and it may not work well after some time.

Which type of lock is hardest to pick?

Smart locks are secure against lock picking as they work differently, but combination locks are also one of the most secure locks because they only open when you enter the right codes. Also, you cannot open combination locks with simple tools; someone would have to bring a very powerful machine to force them open.

What if you misplace your keys a lot?

A smart lock is a great solution if you misplace your keys often, as it only requires your fingerprint and can be operated through an app. Otherwise, combination locks are a good option; you only need to have the code to lock or unlock them.

Does the location of the storage unit affect the type of lock?

The location of the storage unit affects which type of lock would work best. For instance, if it is an outdoor storage unit, a lock with a weatherproof feature is essential because it will prevent corrosion.

However, for an indoor unit, the weatherproof feature will be less important. A good lock with hardened plastic coating will be sufficient.

Is there anything else you need to keep in mind?

When you buy a lock, keep in mind how many people need to access your storage unit. If it is only you, you can buy any lock you want. Otherwise, get a smart lock that can be operated by many people, such as a combination lock, so you can tell its code to your loved ones.

Conclusion

If you are still confused and don’t know which lock to choose for your storage unit, we highly recommend ABUS Padlock Diskus 20/70. Its circular design conceals most of the shackle and prevents any attempts at cutting the lock. Other than that, its dual-locking mechanism effectively protects your precious belongings and resists picking and prying as well.

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.