Choose a Z-Wave Controller
Z-Wave is the marketing name given to the mesh network-enabling technology used for smart home control. There are other home control standards, such as X10, Zigbee, and others, but we’re going to focus on Z-Wave for this article. To set up remote-controlled deadbolts such as the one seen in the picture above, you first need a Z-wave-capable controller. This is the brains behind the operation. The controller creates a secure wireless mesh network that’s used to communicate with Z-Wave-enabled appliances. Each Z-Wave appliance, such as a wireless door lock or light switch dimmer, acts as a network repeater which helps to extend the range of the network and provide communications redundancy for other devices and appliances connected to the network.
Select Your Z-Wave-Enabled Appliances
There are a ton of remote-controllable Z-Wave-enabled appliances out on the market, including:
Electronic Deadbolt Locks Light Fixture Dimmers and Switches HVAC Thermostat Controllers Motion Sensors Flood Sensors Smoke Detectors Remote-Controlled Outlets and Power Strips
Connect Your Controller to the Internet
Once you have the Z-Wave controller set up and you connect your Z-Wave appliances per the manufacturer’s instructions, you need to establish a connection to your Z-Wave controller from the internet. If you’re using Alarm.com or another service provider, you need to pay for a package that allows for control over your Z-Wave appliances.
Download Controller Apps
Once you have a service provider or have set up your connection to your controller, then you need to download the specific Z-Wave control app for your controller. Alarm.com has Android and iPhone versions of its app, as well.
Lock Your Home With Z-Wave Deadbolts
Major Z-Wave-enabled deadbolts on the market include Kwikset’s deadbolt line and Schlage’s line. Your controller might only be compatible with a certain brand of electronic deadbolt, so make sure you check its website for compatibility information. Some neat features of these Z-Wave deadbolts are that they can determine whether they’re locked or not and can relay that information to you on your smartphone, so you won’t have to worry about whether you locked them or not. Some models also let you engage or disengage your security system via the lock’s keypad. If you want to get really creative, program your interior Z-Wave-enabled lights to come on as the deadbolt lock is disengaged from the keypad.
Any Downsides?
The main potential downside of this internet/smartphone-connected smart home technology is the potential for hackers and bad guys to mess with it. It’s one thing if a hacker does something bad to your computer, but when they start messing with your thermostat, door locks, and lights, then they might negatively affect your personal safety in a tangible way. Before you purchase a Z-Wave device, check with its manufacturer to see how they implement security.
