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We've rounded up a handful of easy ways to automate the little things in your home so you can get on with the big things.
Remotely control your door locks
No one likes having to be home to let service people into the house in the middle of the day. You either have to use a sick or vacation day, or race home to meet them. Both scenarios cost you time and productivity -- and there are easier ways to deal with the issue from a distance.
Kwikset's SmartCode lever door locks and deadbolts offer you a way to allow or deny access to your home without being present. The SmartCode locks can be opened or locked by key or by a code that you punch into an integrated 10-digit number pad. The locks hold up to 30 different codes, and you can add or delete a code any time you like. The day of your service call, you can program in a code and give it to the service company. When you get home that evening, you can delete that code so it can't be used again.
Another feature of some of the SmartCode locks is the ability to link in with your home control system or security system. This lets you remotely unlock or lock the doors using a PC, smartphone, or cell phone.
Remember that SmartCode locks are only as secure as the security of the codes you program in. If you program in a code for a service person but don't delete it, you are defeating the purpose of having the locks in the first place. You also need to remember to keep the physical keys handy and secure in the event you miss or ignore the audible reminder that the keypad batteries are running low.
SmartCode locks and deadbolts are available in different finishes at big box home improvement stores, starting around $100. Online retailers like Amazon also have the same locks for about the same price.
