Specifically, two factors are key here (no pun intended): the default position of the lock and what it does when power is interrupted. What happens is different depending on whether the lock is fail safe or fail secure.

Let’s go over how each of these types work and why it matters.

About Fail-Safe Locks

The default position of a fail-safe lock is an unlocked position. So when these types of locks lose power, the lock returns to an unlocked position, which lets the door (or whatever it’s on) continue to operate. As such, it prevents lockouts. This is ideal for scenarios where you need access to a room or area of a property during an emergency. This is because when there is no power with a fail-safe lock, you’re still safe to exit. In general, fail-safe locks aren’t as prevalent as fail-secure locks.

About Fail-Secure Locks

Fail-secure locks are the more common type of electronic lock. These locks have a default position of wherever the lock is currently situated. So if it’s locked, it will stay locked if it loses power or power is interrupted. This isn’t ideal for emergency situations, but it makes sense for businesses that want to keep the door locked, and secure in the event of a power outage. If you’re locked out and a fail-secure lock is involved, a manual override is key—which is why it’s a common feature with fail-secure locks.

Which One Is Better? Does It Matter?

Determining whether to use a fail-safe or fail-secure lock depends on the purpose it will serve. If it’s in a situation where people are involved, you want a fail-safe lock because it allows for easy exiting. However, If you’re more concerned about protecting property or assets (and there aren’t any safety concerns) a fail-secure lock is a better choice. If you do use a fail-secure lock, always make sure there’s a manual override system in case emergency services need to access your property or a room for any reason.

If you have other questions related to locksmithing or security—or you’re interested in a product or service—contact A-1 Locksmith today.

To keep up with the times, and offer you the latest security innovations, we’re always taking a look at our process, and methods to ensure we’re up to date, and that you enjoy state-of-the-art solutions. Part of that includes updating our website, so allow us to take you on a virtual “tour” of the changes you might notice moving forward.

Full e-Commerce Capabilities

While we’ve given our customers the ability to shop online for safes, door hardware, and other products for a while now, there has only been the option to get a quote once you pick the security product that’s right for you. Now, you can fully check out online! Browse safes, accessories, door hardware, and more from the comfort of your couch, home office or… anywhere, add the desired one to your cart and check out like you would with any other website. It’s that easy.

In-Person Viewing Option

Prefer to view safes in person? Our website is a great way to do your initial research, but we also have more than 10 Dallas-Fort Worth safe showrooms for you to visit. This is also great if you have any questions or service concerns. We partner with safe, and security manufacturers to ensure you get a seamless experience from website to physical store.

Convenient Delivery, and Pickup Options

If you live in DFW, you qualify for safe delivery for an additional fee (varies by distance, and other factors including our available bolt-down installation). Accessories, and smaller hardware also available to ship nationwide or to be included with your safe delivery at no extra charge. You have the option of picking up your purchase as well. If you do choose safe delivery, we can even place, and install the safe in the room of your choosing. 

Better Value

Since there is no third-party delivery company, and we have a team of expert installers, you’ll enjoy tremendous value compared to big-box retailers, and what they have available on their e-commerce websites. Our competitors simply cannot compete with the full package of safe sales coupled with expertise, and comprehensive delivery, and installation services. 

Safe, and Easy Returns

Lastly, since we now have an online purchase process, we want to remind our customers about our return policy. You usually have 30 days from the purchase price to request a return and all returned items must be in new and unused condition, with all original tags, and labels attached. Read our full return policy here. 

We hope you enjoy our improved website! If you have any questions, be sure to call us at (972) 284-7500 today, and we’ll get them answered.

What’s also changed? A-1 Locksmith. Our company traces its origins back to when founder Joe East Sr. started providing consumer locksmith services in Dallas, TX, in 1949. Let’s take a look at some of the company’s biggest milestones and how the business has changed the past 70-plus years.

A-1 Locksmith Timeline

The company began when Joe East Sr. began providing consumer services in 1949. But there have been several milestones since then. Let’s take a look at the A-1 Locksmith timeline and some of our important moments over the years:

• 1950s: Joe East Sr. begins providing locksmith services in the Oak Cliff neighborhood of South Dallas.
• 1960s: Joe East Sr. Lock & Key begins servicing the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area.
• 1980s: Joe East Jr. expands the family trade with retail stores, and mobile service. Brands like A-1 Locksmith gain the first position in the Yellow Pages.
• 1990s: The Central Service Center for A-1 Locksmith opens on Highway 75 in North Dallas.
• 2000s: A-1 Locksmith broadens its offerings with electronic security, retail safe centers, and automotive car remote services.
• Present: Joe East Enterprises Inc. is a multi-unit retail, and service company, covering local, and nationwide customers 24-hours per day.

Various locksmith, safe, security, retail, and mobile service companies make up Joe East Enterprises as it is known today. A-1 Locksmith is proud to be one of them.

A-1 Locksmith Today

A-1 Locksmith is the most trusted locksmith in DFW. In addition to having over 10 locations throughout North Texas, we have been voted the #1 Locksmith by CityVoter.com and Dallas residents for three years in a row. We also have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and are members of Safe & Vault Technicians Association, the Texas Locksmiths Association and ALOA Security Professionals Association. Whether you need residential locksmithing services, commercial locksmithing services, automotive locksmithing services or a security product like a safe or camera, we’re here for you.

If you’re in need of a locksmith in Dallas-Fort Worth, trust an established one with a rich history. Give us a call at (972) 284-7500 today!

How, then, can you find a locksmith in whom you can place your trust? Simple – by calling A-1 Locksmith in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. We typically eschew boasting and would rather lean on our past clients’ testimonials, but we do want to highlight some benefits unique to A-1 Locksmith.

We’re in Your Area

Most importantly, we strive to provide quality locksmith services to local customers in our area, which is why we have expanded to numerous locations around the Dallas area. We have 11 area locations, and we can come to you in quite literally any Dallas/Fort Worth location. With multiple physical locales, we are able to reach you more quickly, and offer you greater attention regardless of your needs.

We’re Proud to Show Our Face

Some locksmiths in Dallas drive around in unmarked vehicles, fail to provide proof of a license through the state, and may even fabricate information their website to give the perception that they truly are a local locksmith company. These companies have no commitment to a reputation and you can be sure that they have little incentive to ensure your happiness with service.

At A-1 Locksmith, we understand the importance of personal connections, which is why we are proud to put a face to our name directly online. Visit the website of any one of our numerous locations, and you can find the name, and face of the individual manager, as well as pictures of our other trained personnel. Furthermore, you can drop by any one of our locations, and meet the team or shop hardware.

We’ve Been Around for Over Half of a Century

Ultimately, we believe that we are able to consider ourselves the best Dallas locksmith company due to our unwavering commitment to area residents for over half a century. To be sure, our business has been in operation since 1949; from our humble beginnings, we have become the largest locksmith company in the Southwest, with more than 30 seasoned, and veteran field technicians with many boasting over 12 years of experience, and are able to come directly to your location. And throughout our decades of service to those within the Dallas area, we have still retained our dedication to the customer; whether you speak with the CEO or a technician on his or her first day of work, you will understand the passion and diligence of everyone associated with A-1 Locksmith.

Contact Our Team Today

Don’t wait to have your $15 service call skyrocket into a $150+ emergency service call by one of our competitors. Contact A-1 Locksmith for your locksmith needs, and allow us to demonstrate why we have the strongest reputation of any locksmith company in Dallas/Fort Worth. At A-1 Locksmith, we are not hesitant in making the claim that we are the best Dallas locksmith company.