Ditch the keys: How to install a smart lock on your front door

CHICAGO (WLS) — Getting locked out, juggling a handful of groceries at the front door or hearing that the kids have misplaced their keys again can turn a routine day into a headache. For homeowners looking for a simpler way in and out, a smart lock can offer both convenience and peace of mind. According to DIY Playbook’s Casey Finn, swapping a traditional deadbolt for a digital smart lock is a manageable project for many homeowners and can often be finished in under an hour.

Supplies

For this project, you’ll need a Smart WiFi Deadbolt Kit, which typically includes the new latch plate and batteries, along with a Phillips screwdriver, a drill just in case adjustments are needed, and a smartphone to complete the app setup.
-Smart WiFi Deadbolt Kit, including new latch plate and batteries
-Phillips screwdriver
-Drill, if needed
-Smartphone

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Step 1: Remove the Existing Deadbolt
Start on the inside of the door by using a screwdriver to loosen and remove the interior portion of the old lock. Take out the remaining deadbolt pieces until the door is left with a clean opening, ready for the new hardware.

Copyright © 2026 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You May Also Like

One of Atlanta's most wanted fugitives captured in Jacksonville three years after murder

Atlanta’s Most Wanted Murder Fugitive Caught in Jacksonville

Jonathan Soto, 43, is wanted in connection with the 2023 killing of…
Man arrested in death of Tasia Fortune, Mississippi woman found hanging from tree

Second Arrest Made in Death of Tasia Fortune, Mississippi Woman Found Hanging From Tree

Authorities in Mississippi have arrested a second man in connection with the…
Eliana Moreno’s fiancé breaks silence after NBC helicopter crash in LA

Eliana Moreno’s Fiancé Speaks Out After NBC LA Helicopter Crash

The fiancé of reporter Eliana Moreno, who died in an NBC Los…
Iran reaffirms support for Hamas as Trump pushes to disarm terror group

Expert Says Trump Likely ‘Smirked’ as Iranian President Blasted US in UN Speech

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian’s forceful criticism of the United States at the…
Texas lawmaker warns accused wife-killer's Italy escape could open 'Pandora's box' for future suspects

Texas Lawmaker Warns Italy Escape Could Set Suspect Precedent

A Texas lawmaker is cautioning that the case of an accused wife-killer…
Chicago man Andrew Anania sentenced in kidnapping, sexually assaulting drivers at gunpoint; Walter Moran also convicted

Mundelein Coach and Teacher Charged With Recording Teen

MUNDELEIN, Ill. () — A suburban volleyball coach has been charged with…
Florida governor candidate Byron Donalds stands by Trump after some mentions of the president removed from website

Byron Donalds Backs Trump After References Removed From Florida Governor Campaign Website

Several prominent references to President Trump have disappeared from Florida Republican gubernatorial…
San Jose climber recounts 500-foot plunge down Mount Shasta

San Jose Climber Recounts Surviving 500-Foot Mount Shasta Plunge

A first-time climber’s attempt to conquer Mount Shasta became a fight for…
Judge dismisses Trump's 2024 lawsuit against Des Moines Register over poll results

Judge Dismisses Trump’s 2024 Des Moines Register Poll Lawsuit

An Iowa judge on Wednesday threw out President Donald Trump’s lawsuit against…
Lindsay Clancy holdout juror Michael Desronvil claims fellow jurors used cell phones during deliberations: report

Lindsay Clancy Holdout Juror Alleges Fellow Jurors Used Cell Phones During Deliberations: Report

The holdout juror whose deadlock led to a mistrial in the Lindsay…
Massachusetts restaurant owner assaults teen dine-and-dashers, pulls gun during scuffle, police say

Police: Massachusetts Owner Assaults Teens, Pulls Gun in Scuffle

A Massachusetts restaurant owner allegedly assaulted two teenagers accused of leaving without…
Trump's Board of Peace announces $2.45B first-phase recovery plan for Gaza — here's how the funds will be used

Trump’s Board of Peace Unveils $2.45B Gaza Recovery Plan: How the Funds Will Be Spent

President Trump’s Board of Peace unveiled a phased recovery blueprint for Gaza…