Hi-Tech Deadbolt Uses Remote Control, Keypad or Key for Entry
If you’ve ever fumbled with keys to get inside your house, Simplicikey has a solution that will end the shopping-bag-between-the-knees contortion and other poses one strikes to try to insert a key while carrying an armload of groceries, a briefcase and purse, or a sleeping child. The Simplicikey electronic deadbolt operates with a remote control keyfob to slide open your deadbolt with the push of a button. The easy-to-use install and use hi-tech lockset also has a dial pad for alphanumeric codes that unlock the deadbolt and a failsafe keyed lock.
Look Ma, No Keys
For parents of young children who are often carrying babes in arms, car seats, a diaper bag and other accoutrement, the Simplicikey remote control deadbolt makes for easy entry without having to rearrange or set down a child or baggage in order to insert a key. Of course you will still have to wrangle a hand free to turn the knob, or send an older child ahead to open the door.
For households where babysitters, housekeepers, handymen and other contractors need temporary access the home, the Simplicikey allows homeowners to give these workers a custom alphanumeric code to accommodate their visits. Up to 16 codes can be programmed, and codes can be deleted when no longer needed. Codes can similarly be used to eliminate the need to distribute spare keys to in-laws, neighbors and others who might need access to the home, such as in an emergency. The keypad method of entry also eliminates the need to cart along keys when out for a walk or exercise.
Key Me In, Scotty
While the lock appears from the outside to be a traditional lock, it is loaded with tech features. The key pad is backlit so that the numbers and letters can be read in the dark, and when pressed, the buttons on the keypad sound a tone -- which can be programmed to a quieter tone if desired. When the lock is opened or closed electronically, a high-intensity blue or red LED bar at the top of the deadbolt illuminates, and the lock mechanism emits a beep to confirm the lock is engaged or unengaged. If the door does not close properly or otherwise the lock does not fully engage, an error tone will sound.
The lockset unit is powered by four (not included) batteries that are concealed in a compartment on the interior casing of the locks.
The encrypted keyfob has a range of up to 50 feet, though in our tests the remote control operated consistently at a distance of approximately 25 feet unobstructed.
Lock Off, Lock On
The heavy-duty all-metal lockset comes in polished brass, satin nickel and aged bronze finishes to match and complement existing door hardware. For our review we matched a circa 1930 brass ensemble with the aged bronze set, which blended with the antique ornamentation beautifully.
Installation is easy and can be done with just a screw driver, if Simplicity is replacing a standard deadbolt. Simply remove the old hardware and follow the 11-step directions that involve fastening some bolts and screws. If your old deadbolt hole is an odd size of less than a 2” round circle, you may need a handyman or locksmith to drill out the correct size hole. The one-inch solid brass deadbolt should slide easily into an existing standard deadbolt carve out. The set comes with the option of a regular strike plate, or you can install the included strike box for added security.
The Simplicity set is priced at $249.99 online at www.simplicikey.com, though comparison shoppers may be able to find the set around $199.99 at online and at national retails stores including HomeDepot.com, The Home Depot stores, Costco (Satin Nickel finish only at this time), Amazon.com and SmartHome.com.
Additional keyfobs pairs are $49.99.
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