Tired of fumbling for keys or worrying about who has a copy? What if you could replace that old, frustrating lock yourself in less time than it takes to order a pizza?
Forget everything you think you know about smart lock installation being a complex job for experts. This smart door lock installation guide is designed for absolute beginners, walking you through each simple step to secure your door with confidence.
So how to install a smart lock? Let’s see:
The Prep Work
Before starting the smart door lock installation, here is some preparation you need to do:
Essential Pre-Installation Checklist
Successful installation begins with proper preparation. Take a moment to confirm that you have access to the following things:
1. Tool Time: The Simple Kit You’ll Need
For smart door lock installation, you will only require a few basic tools such as:
● Phillips head screwdriver
● Tape measure
● Pencil
2. Sizing Up Your Door
Accurate measurements of the door are essential to secure the lock properly. Most smart locks are built for doors between 1 3/8 inches and 2 inches. Measuring this thickness correctly is important because if the door is too thin, the lock will not hold securely. On the other hand, if it is too thick, the parts may not connect correctly.
Backset measurement: This refers to the distance from the edge of the door to the centre of the bore hole. Standard options are 2 3/8 inches or 2 3/4 inches. Confirming this detail ensures the latch lines up perfectly with the strike plate.
Bore hole diameter: The round opening where the lock is installed should measure 2 1/8 inches. This standard size allows the lock body to sit and operate smoothly.
Unboxing Your Lock
Before you begin the actual installation, open the package and confirm that all parts are present. A standard smart lock kit should include:
● Exterior keypad or touchscreen
● Interior assembly
● Latch or deadbolt
● Strike plate
● Screws and mounting hardware
Verifying these items ahead of time guarantees you will not run into delays once you start smart door lock installation. If anything is missing, pause and contact the supplier before moving forward.
The Installation – Step-by-Step for Everyone
Once you have everything ready, here are the simple steps for digital lock installation:
Step 1: Say Goodbye to Your Old Lock
Start by removing your existing deadbolt. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to loosen the screws on the interior side of the lock. Once the screws are out, both the inside and outside pieces of the lock will slide free. Next, remove the latch from the edge of the door by unscrewing the small faceplate screws. Finally, take off the strike plate from the door frame. With the old hardware gone, the door is ready for the new smart lock.
Step 2: Install the New Latch/Deadbolt
Take the new latch or deadbolt and slide it into the opening on the edge of the door. Make sure the slanted side of the bolt faces the direction the door closes. If your backset measurement is different, adjust the latch to match either 2 3/8 inches or 2 3/4 inches, depending on your door. Once it sits evenly with the surface, secure it using the screws provided. A properly aligned latch ensures the lock moves smoothly.
Step 3: Mount the Exterior Keypad
Feed the cable attached to the keypad through the bore hole so it reaches the inside of the door. Position the keypad on the outside surface of the door, making sure it is level and straight. From the inside, insert the long mounting screws and tighten them carefully. The keypad should feel secure but not overly tight, as overtightening can put pressure on the electronics.
Step 4: Connect the Interior Assembly
Bring the interior assembly to the inside of the door. Connect the cable from the exterior keypad to the port on the circuit board. Next, align the tailpiece so it slides directly into the deadbolt mechanism. Once everything lines up, attach the assembly to the door with the screws provided. Tighten them until the assembly feels solid and steady.
Step 5: Power On and Test
Insert the batteries into the interior assembly and close the battery cover. Most smart locks will automatically run a short calibration once powered on. Wait until this process finishes, then test the lock by turning the thumb-turn inside. The deadbolt should extend and retract smoothly. If it feels stiff, double-check that the latch and strike plate are aligned correctly before moving forward.
The Digital Setup – Connecting to Your Life
Once you are done with smart lock installation, here is how to set it up digitally:
Download and Pair
With the hardware in place, the next step is its digital setup. Begin by downloading the lock’s official app, then connect your phone to the lock by following the setup steps on screen. Most models ask you to either press a small button on the lock itself or use your phone to scan the QR code in the manual. Make sure your phone has a stable WiFi or Bluetooth connection during this process for a smooth setup.
User Management
Once connected, you can control how access is shared. The app allows you to create individual PIN codes, digital keys, or fingerprints, depending on your lock model. Temporary codes are especially useful for guests, cleaners, or contractors since they can be removed at any time.
Smart Home Integration
Linking the lock to your smart home system makes it possible to lock or unlock doors with voice commands, check status remotely, or automate routines. For example, you can program the lock to secure itself when you say ‘Goodnight’ or unlock automatically when you turn off your home security system as you return.
Troubleshooting – When Things Don’t Go to Plan
During the smart door lock installation process, you might run into some issues that can easily be solved. Here is a troubleshooting guide for these scenarios:
The Lock is Sticky or Won’t Lock
If the deadbolt feels stiff or does not slide in smoothly, it is usually an alignment problem. Check that the latch and strike plate line up correctly. If the bolt catches on the frame, loosen the screws holding the strike plate, adjust its position slightly, and then retighten. Also, make sure the door closes fully, since even a small gap or warped frame can prevent the lock from working properly.
The Keypad Isn’t Responding
When the keypad does not light up or register input, the most common issue is low or dead batteries. Replace them with a fresh set and check that they are installed correctly. If the keypad still does not respond, perform a reset following the instructions in your manual. Wiping the keypad with a clean, dry cloth is also a good idea, as dust or moisture can interfere with touch sensitivity.
The Lock Won’t Pair
Pairing issues usually come down to connectivity. First, make sure your phone’s Bluetooth or WiFi is turned on and that you are using the latest version of the lock’s app. Restart both your phone and the lock before trying again. If it still refuses to connect, reset the lock to factory settings and repeat the pairing process from the beginning. Moving closer to your router or ensuring a stronger signal often fixes this problem as well.
DESLOC D110 Plus Built-in WiFi Smart Lock
Still feeling a bit overwhelmed? Don’t worry! The DESLOC D110 Plus Smart Lock makes installation incredibly easy. Get everything set up in just 10-15 minutes with all accessories included, plus automatic detection for both left and right-handed doors.
Beyond its hassle-free setup, this high-tech smart lock connects directly to your WiFi without an additional hub, allowing seamless remote control via DESLOC APP.
It offers six unlocking methods: fingerprint, keypad, app control, voice commands, IC cards, and physical keys. The built-in LockVue display clearly shows battery status, lock mode, and settings. The auto-lock feature ensures your door stays secure even if you forget to lock it.
Combining effortless installation, solid security, and smart features, the DESLOC D110 Plus Smart Lock is a practical and user-friendly choice for modern homes.
Ready to step into a smarter, key-free lifestyle? Add to Cart now and transform your door in minutes!
