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Yes, you should always change your locks after buying a house. Do so as soon as possible after you move in. Otherwise, you won’t know who has working keys to the property, whether they’re spare keys or otherwise. If an intruder gains access to your house with a key, it may not be covered under your homeowners insurance.

It’s possible, but depends on the design of your lock. Some door locks that lack a keyhole do boast a small hole on the exterior handle or knob. This hole’s primary function is to allow water to drain out of the lock, in addition to giving homeowners an easy spot to insert lubrication. However, you can typically use a paperclip in this pinhole to unlock the door by manipulating the mechanism inside. 

Begin by checking the power source, typically a battery or wired connection. Ensure the battery is installed correctly, has sufficient charge, and isn't corroded. If it's a wired lock, examine the electrical connections to confirm they are secure and free from damage. Additionally, inspect the lock's programming or settings. Confirm that user codes or access credentials are programmed correctly and that any remote control devices are paired and functional.

Smart deadbolts are a worthwhile investment for homeowners seeking more convenience, flexibility, and advanced features than a traditional deadbolt can provide. While a strong conventional deadbolt offers sufficient security for most, smart deadbolts provide significant upgrades.

Key benefits include keyless entry via smartphone, keypads, or biometric sensors, and the ability to lock or unlock your door remotely. You can also manage access for guests by creating temporary codes, eliminating the need for physical keys and the risk of them being lost or duplicated. Many models integrate with smart home systems and offer features like automatic locking, entry-exit monitoring, and tamper alerts with encryption for enhanced security.

However, there are downsides to consider. Smart deadbolts are more expensive than their traditional counterparts and rely on batteries and wireless networks to function. This dependency introduces potential vulnerabilities, such as hacking by skilled intruders and privacy concerns. Installation can also be more complex. Despite these drawbacks, the added layer of convenience and protection makes them a compelling option for many.