Angie's List: Keyless Door Locks Gaining In Popularity

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - Have you lost your house key lately? It happens to all of us at some point and when it does, it's a hassle to get into your home and then rekey or replace the locks.

That's why many people are starting to go keyless.

It may be the easiest way to make sure you're never locked out again – a keyless door lock. Commercial businesses have used them for years and now they're becoming popular with homeowners, too.

"It is a lot more convenient not to have to carry a key. It's more convenient to not have to re-key your locks if you've given out a key, and again, you're so much more likely to lock the door when you don't have to have your keys with you," security professional Mary Tinder said.

A basic keyless lock system is about four times more expensive than a traditional deadbolt. A push-button lock can be installed for around $200. Just punch in your pre-programmed code and you're in.

"Many people like a keyless lock system because it allows them to do away with that spare key hidden under a flower pot outside. It really gives them peace of mind that their house is more secure," Angie's List Founder, Angie Hicks said.

"That's huge because people can watch you, where you get your key and, unfortunately, people get to depend on that hidden key… under the mat. It's such a classic place, but I know some people who would do that," Tinder said.

Newer, more expensive systems use a digital keypad and wireless technology to open the door. Whenever a programmed key fob or smartphone gets in close proximity to the door, a signal automatically gets sent to unlock.

"I think it's a lot more secure than handing a key out. You don't know if someone's made a copy of that key. This way, if you don't want them in anymore, you change the code," Tinder said.

If you go with a push-button system, experts recommend changing the passcode occasionally to keep the buttons from wearing down and helping someone guess the code.

Most keyless locks run on double-A or triple-A batteries and also come with a key bypass just in case you forget the code or lose the fob or phone that triggers the lock.

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