www.makeuseof.com How to Convert a Legacy Deadbolt Into a Smart Lock

Do you ever wish the locks on your doors were smart locks, but don’t want to change the keys or the colors? Now you can. You can buy a piece of hardware designed to fit inside or outside your existing deadbolt hardware.

The new, smart internal or external piece will operate your old deadbolt hardware. We'll highlight the technology and show you how to install it.

The Advantages and Disadvantages of Converting to a Smart Lock

You may or may not already have smart locks. If you're unsure, you can determine if you already have smart devices in your home.

If you don't have smart locks, keeping your existing lock hardware in place has some advantages. You can keep your existing keys without having to re-key, or carry extra keys on your keychain.

And the look of your existing lock hardware won't change. You won't be able to tell it is a smart lock by looking at it, which is an advantage for people who prefer the legacy look of door hardware. This is also an advantage if you like the color.

Matching new door hardware color to the door hardware throughout your house can be difficult. But there's no need to worry if you just use a smart, internal locking mechanism.

Just to note, it can be difficult to retrofit new hardware into your existing lock, especially if you have older locks in a home. If your conversion hardware doesn't fit, you can always replace your entire old lock with a new smart lock.

Getting Started

Installation instructions may vary, but in this article we'll use the Level Bolt Smart Lock as an example. There are other products that will accomplish the same thing, such as the Kwikset Convert Smart Lock Conversion Kit.

As a first step, ensure your existing key and deadbolt work as expected. Doors can settle, and deadbolts can stop functioning when they no longer go into the doorframe hole.

If your existing deadbolt works, also ensure the new deadbolt piece (if there is one) will fit into the door frame hole for when you engage the lock. It may be too large in some cases.

Also make sure your conversion hardware will fit with your legacy hardware. Newer deadbolts in newer doors may be most likely to work with conversion hardware. Take lots of pictures along the way for reference in case you need to put the old lock back together.

Installation Instructions

You'll likely need a Phillips screwdriver to perform these steps.

Replacing the Battery

Your new smart lock hardware will need batteries. The Level Bolt houses the battery in the deadbolt.

To add a new battery:

Setting Up the App

Download, install, and open the app for your smart lock hardware on your smartphone.

The Level Home app includes a version for iOS or Android.

In the app home screen, you can tap and hold the lock location icon. Your lock will unlock or lock.

Out With the Old and in With the New

It's smart not to waste your old lock. Especially if it works well. Why not just enhance it with smart features? The Level Bolt Smart Lock is relatively easy to install and easy to operate. You can recycle your lock's functionality, look, and security.

You can be in with the new—and still in with the old and functional.

Josh Dollaghan is passionate about home improvement, especially when it comes to learning about and setting up next-gen, smart home products. He's often found spending time with his family and exploring the great outdoors. He's also an avid reader, movie-enthusiast, and musician.

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