While you might think keypad locks, and extra security measures are only applicable to your front door, the reality is that any door of your home can be better protected. 

Let’s look at some of the best places to add a keypad lock and the benefits of using a professional locksmith to install them.

How Keypad Locks Work

First, a quick overview of keypad locks, and how they work. These modern locks provide a convenient and keyless entry solution for various spaces (in both residential, and commercial settings). With a keypad lock, users gain access by entering a pre-programmed code, thus eliminating the need for a traditional key (though some models have backups). This minimizes the risk of lost or stolen keys, and improves security as a result. While these locks are traditionally installed in businesses, and on front doors of homes, there are other places where these make sense in your home.

Best Places to Add a Keypad Lock Indoors

When it comes to doors inside your home, the feasibility of installing a keypad lock depends on several factors. For one, what type of lock is currently on the door? If it’s a standard knob or lever handle, a keypad lock is typically compatible. However, the material also matters, as wood, composite, or metal is typically the best option. Thickness, and construction are also factors to consider before installation.

Combine these considerations with what rooms are most important (or contain sensitive information or valuables) and it will help you decide where to add a keypad lock. Closets are often good candidates because they can store safes, clothes, photos, and personal items. Offices are also popular for keypad locks, in order to protect valuable work information and equipment. Any room wherever you desire access control is worth considering.

How an Expert Consultation Can Help

If you’re still unsure which room of your home is best for a keypad lock—or you need help deciding which type of keypad lock to install—a professional locksmith can help. At A-1 Locksmith, we’ve installed hundreds of keypad locks and can give you the expert guidance you need. This can include a visit to your home, where we can provide advice on keypad locks, and other possible security upgrades. 

If you’re considering putting a keypad lock on your closet, office door or another room in your home, be sure to call A-1 Locksmith first! We’re just a phone call or short drive away.

Let’s walk through the steps typically associated with a keypad battery change to help you decide whether it’s worth a DIY attempt or if it’s time to call a professional locksmith. 

(Note: these instructions are based on the SECURAM ProLogic series of keypads.)

Step #1: Find the Battery Compartment

Top-lit, back-lit and LCD screen keypads are usually pretty easy to find where to change the battery. It’s often found at about the 5 O’clock position, though you can work your way around the keypad to find it if it’s not there. 

Step #2: Remove the Compartment

There should be a lever that you can pull to slide out the battery compartment. It comes out pretty easily, and often features a D-cell battery.

Step #3: Replace the Battery

This is pretty straightforward, with no special batteries required or anything. Just buy a pack of D Cells, and use one of them for the keypad. Discard the old battery.

Step #4: Replace the Compartment

Slide the compartment back into the slot the same way it came out. (Again, this should be around the 5 o’clock position.) Make sure the battery, and compartment are both in the right way, or either could get stuck. Once it’s in, you’re done with your keypad battery change!

Step #5: Verify the Battery Level

If your keypad features an LCD screen, you’ll be able to check the battery level with a quick glance at the top-right corner. It displays your battery life similar to the way your phone does.

Finding the Best Safe Accessories

If you’re looking to upgrade your home safe, getting a keypad upgrade from A-1 Locksmith is a great place to start. We have top-lit, back-lit and LCD screen keypads, as well as other safe accessories like outlet kits, anchors, storage options, dehumidifiers, and more. Check out our accessories page to see all the items we have in stock. Stop by any of our DFW-area locations today, and one of our professional technicians will help you find what you need to maximize the security of your safe. 

If you have other safe or security questions, contact the team at A-1 Locksmith today!

Let’s go over three types of safe keypad upgrades that we’d recommend.

Type #1: Top Lit

This first option is the one that has the least amount of features, but it’s definitely worth considering and works for many people. It gets its name from the fact that there is a light bulb at the top of the keypad that illuminates the keys for easy viewing. This safe accessory upgrade is ideal for dark closets, and other areas that don’t have much light. (They’re also great if you need to access your safe during the night.)

Key benefits of top-lit safe keypads: convenient and simple with an easy-to-change battery.

Type #2: Back Lit

Another home safe keypad option that illuminates the keys for easier access to the safe, back-lit keypads take the goal of illumination up a notch by lighting up the entire keypad instead of just a light at the top. This makes visibility even easier (and really, is the better option if you can budget for the upgrade). Also, the housing for these types of keypads can be customized (e.g. stainless steel, black chrome, etc.). 

Key benefits of back-lit safe keypads: higher visibility with more color options.

Type #3: LCD Screen

One of the more advanced safe upgrades, LCD screen keypads also feature customizable colors, and have the most technology among all the options we’re covering today. Using a ProLogic L02 keypad as an example, features you can expect in LCD screen keypads include an LCD digital display, programming features, beeping/sound control, and more.

Key benefits of LCD screen safe keypads: user friendly, advanced, and sleek.

To see these differences for yourself, check out our related video on the subject:

If you’re interested in learning more about the keypad options you have when it comes to home safes, contact A-1 Locksmith Security, and Safes today.