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Q1. What is a Fully Automatic Smart Lock?

Answer: A fully automatic smart lock is an electronic lock that automatically retracts the bolt after verifying the user's identity. Once the door is closed, the lock automatically engages, securing the door without any manual intervention.

Q2. What is the Difference Between a Fully Automatic Smart Lock and a Semi-Automatic Lock?

Answer: A semi-automatic smart lock requires manual intervention to operate the mechanical structure for unlocking, while a fully automatic smart lock is entirely motor-driven.

In terms of appearance, fully automatic smart locks are typically designed in a push-pull style, whereas semi-automatic smart locks usually feature a handle-style design.

In terms of door operation, a fully automatic smart lock automatically unlocks after identity verification, while a semi-automatic smart lock requires you to press down on the handle to unlock. Once the door is closed, the fully automatic smart lock locks itself, while the semi-automatic smart lock requires you to lift the handle to engage the lock.

Q3. What are the Main Types of Fully Automatic Smart Locks?

Answer: The first type is the fully automatic smart lock with the motor placed on the front and rear panels. The second type is the fully automatic smart lock that uses an electronic lock mechanism.

Q4. What Types of Lock Mechanisms are Compatible with Fully Automatic Smart Locks?

Answer: A rear-clutch fully automatic smart lock is compatible with standard, Bawang, and non-standard lock mechanisms. If the motor’s torque is sufficient, it can also accommodate top-and-bottom hook locks .

Electric lock mechanism fully automatic smart locks are typically compatible with standard lock bodies. For sizes like 30240 or 40388, installation requires guide plates, and they generally cannot accommodate top-and-bottom hook locks.

Q5. What Types of Doors Can Be Fitted with a Fully Automatic Smart Lock?

Answer: There are various lock body specifications, and smart locks are designed to accommodate most of the common lock body specifications on the market. Generally, most doors (with a thickness greater than 40mm) can be fitted with a smart lock, including fully automatic smart locks. Exceptions may apply to certain specialized or foreign lock bodies, but installation can usually be achieved by modifying the door with new holes.

Q6. Is It Necessary to Remove Top-and-Bottom Hook Locks When Installing a Fully Automatic Smart Lock?

Answer: It is recommended to remove the top-and-bottom hook locks.

In the past, when community security was lower and theft was more common, top-and-bottom hook locks were used to prevent burglars from forcibly dismantling the door lock. However, nowadays, cases of illegal break-ins through forced entry have become much rarer. According to a 2017 report from Changsha Evening News, less than 1% of home break-ins involved violent lock picking, and top-and-bottom hook locks are largely obsolete.

Moreover, most smart locks come equipped with anti-pry alarms and remote monitoring features, so users no longer need to worry about door lock security in the event of a break-in.

For residential entry doors, fire safety and theft prevention are both essential, but the presence of top-and-bottom hook locks creates a conflict between these two functions, as they may compromise fire safety.

From a Fire Safety Perspective, Entry Doors with Top-and-Bottom Hook Locks Cannot Pass Fire Safety Inspections. According to the Building Fire Safety Design Code, fire doors are required to allow for quick escape in emergency situations, meaning they must be able to open easily and without obstruction. Both deadbolt locks and top-and-bottom hook locks require a key or knob to operate, which fails to meet the escape requirements.

In the event of a fire, emergency responders often need to forcibly open the door to rescue people, but top-and-bottom hook locks can obstruct this process, potentially delaying rescue efforts and compromising safety. As such, from a fire safety standpoint, top-and-bottom hook locks may reduce the overall safety effectiveness of the door.

Therefore, it is recommended to remove the top-and-bottom hook locks when installing a fully automatic smart lock.

Q7. What Should Be Considered When Using a Fully Automatic Smart Lock?

Answer: When opening or closing the door, avoid slamming it. Slamming can cause impact damage to the door frame, leading to deformation that prevents the bolt from properly entering the frame and locking securely. Additionally, this can cause the lock body to shift, which may allow the bolt to extend when closing the door, but it could fail to retract properly when opening the door.

If you are using a rear-clutch fully automatic smart lock, it is recommended not to enable the auto-lock function.

Q8. What Are the Maintenance Tips for a Fully Automatic Smart Lock?

Answer:

1. Replace the battery when it runs low.

2. If the fingerprint sensor becomes damp or dirty, gently wipe it with a dry soft cloth. Be careful not to scratch the sensor, as it could affect fingerprint recognition. Avoid using substances like alcohol, gasoline, thinners, or other flammable materials for cleaning or maintenance.

3. If the mechanical key becomes difficult to use, apply a small amount of graphite powder or pencil lead into the key slot to ensure smooth operation.

4. Keep the lock surface away from corrosive substances, and avoid using hard objects to bump or strike the outer casing. This will help prevent damage to the surface coating or potential issues with the internal electronic components.

5. Perform regular checks. Since the door lock is used daily, it’s recommended to inspect it every six months to a year. During the inspection, check for battery leakage, tighten any loose screws, and ensure the alignment between the lock body and strike plate is correct.

6. Smart locks contain delicate and complex electronic components. Unauthorized disassembly by non-professionals could damage internal parts or cause other serious issues. If you suspect a problem with the fingerprint lock, it's best to consult a professional technician for after-sales service.

7. If your fully automatic smart lock uses a lithium battery, avoid charging it with a power bank, as this could cause the battery to age prematurely and, in severe cases, lead to explosion.

Q9. What Are the Common Issues with Fully Automatic Smart Locks?

Answer: After a fully automatic smart lock is installed, it operates within a set track. Any deviation in this track can lead to lock malfunctions. There are several causes for track misalignment, including improper installation, long-term rusting of the lock body, door sagging, or forcing the door open while the latch is not fully retracted.
Common issues with fully automatic smart locks include: rapid battery drain, broken push-pull gears, inability to unlock from the outside after electronic auto-locking, and the lock body becoming jammed.

Q10. What Should You Consider When Purchasing a Fully Automatic Smart Lock?

Answer:

1. Choose a smart lock that suits your needs rather than blindly pursuing unusual features or unlocking methods.

2. Pay attention to the lock's safety features and the quality of the materials used.

3. Purchase the smart lock from a reputable source, and carefully check the product packaging for clarity. Ensure it includes necessary documentation such as a certificate of compliance, user manual, and warranty card.

4. Confirm whether your door has top-and-bottom hook locks. When installing a fully automatic smart lock, it’s best to remove them to prevent rapid battery drain. If you’re unsure, contact the store or online customer service for assistance.

5. Consider whether the noise of the lock matters to you. If noise is not a concern, you may opt for a rear-clutch fully automatic lock. If you prefer a quieter operation, it’s recommended to choose a model with a built-in motor, as it produces less noise.