Kwikset 909 SmartCode Electronic Deadbolt Review

When it comes to home safety, we often forget that the only thing separating us from the wilderness outdoors is a thick piece of wood. While we’re inside, securing the door with a deadbolt is one of the most effective ways of ensuring that nobody can bust in, but what happens when we leave our homes?

Thankfully, companies like Kwikset have thought of a way to slide the deadbolt when locking our doors from outside. Kwikset has been in the home security business for more than 60 years, so if they have a product that can increase the security of our homes and doors while we’re not around, they’re definitely worth paying attention to.

In this article, we’re going to look at one of their latest inventions – the 909 SmartCode Electronic Deadbolt. This is by no means a unique product, but after giving this electronic deadbolt a go, we’re happy to report that it’s arguably one of the best out there. Keep reading if you’d like to know whether your home’s doors could benefit from the 909.

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Easy Installation

The thing about electronic keypads that may seem intimidating to first-time buyers is the installation process. This is understandable since putting one of these on your doors requires removing the old doorknobs, cylinders, strike plates, deadbolts, and screws. However, with the Kwikset 909, you don’t have to worry about spending hours figuring things out.

The set comes with a user manual, which gives a step-by-step guide on how to install the deadbolt. The only thing you need to be aware of is the size of the hole in the door, so the bolt doesn’t get stuck on the lip. This is a lot easier done than said, so you shouldn’t need to worry about anything at all. Plus, the 909 is designed to be installed on all standard-sized doors.

Adjustable Backset

The way the Kwikset 909 fits almost every standard door is with the adjustable backset. The backset can be set to any size between 2-3/8 and 2-3/4 of an inch. Admittedly, this is hardly anything, but it works for most door types, and that’s all that matters. Don’t be afraid to try this electronic deadbolt out. If for whatever reason, the device is not compatible with your door, the company will give you a complete refund.

Key-free!

Nobody likes carrying out a set of jingly keys in their pocket. For some odd reason, the keys find a way to rotate and poke you in your thigh at the most inopportune times. Plus, you already have your wallet, car keys, cell phone, and whatever else you have in your pockets, and the last thing you need is to worry about whether you have that metal piece that’ll let you enter your home.

The 909 eliminates the need for keys. Instead, you can program up to eight different combinations into the keypad. When you arrive home, just press a few buttons, and the deadbolt will retract, allowing you entrance into your own home. If you prefer the old-fashioned way, Kwikset also provides you with two keys.

Customizable Access Codes

The 909 has enough memory to store up to 30 unique passcodes. Why would you need more than one passcode? You wouldn’t, unless you’re renting out your home or an apartment and would still like access to the premise in the event of the unthinkable. Or if you need to kick your tenant out, then knowing one of the access codes to unbolt the deadlock will come in handy.

30-second Auto-lock

One thing that we find extremely handy is the auto-lock feature. The 909 detects when the door has been opened and shut, and if the homeowner forgot to lock the deadbolt, the 909’s got your back. It’ll automatically slide the deadbolt to the locked position after 30 seconds.

One-touch Locking

For some reason, when we’re running late, our house keys always use this opportunity to get stuck in the latch or become too large to fit in the keyhole. The 909 helps those of us who are always late due to our poor time management. Upon closing your door, all you need to do to lock it deadbolt is press the lock button on the keypad. All done! Your door is securely locked!

Long Battery Life

The 909 is an electric deadbolt that runs on four AA batteries. Yes, this means you need to constantly worry about whether the batteries still have some juice in them. However, there’s some good news. The 909 hardly uses any power. This device only turns on when the deadbolt needs to be locked or unlocked. Some customers found four fresh AA batteries to last more than six months. Purchase rechargeable AA batteries if you don’t want to make a battery run every half-a-year.

Backlit Keypad

At nighttime, when your yard seems the outdoors seems the scariest, the buttons on the 909 keypads will turn on (drains battery power but whatever). These buttons will illuminate the keyhole while also showing you where to punch in the access codes.

Aesthetics

Although looks aren’t the most important consideration, especially when it comes to home security, you’ll be glad to know that the Kwikset 909 comes in three very eye-pleasing colors. The color options are Satin Nickel, Polished Brass, and Venetian Bronze. These options blend well with almost every door design and color.

Last update on 2023-09-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Verdict

There’s almost no downside to the Kwikset 909 SmartCode Electronic Deadbolt at all! Of course, you need to be wary of who has access to the passcodes and whether they can program new codes into the keypad or not, but these risks exist in every electronic deadbolt out there.

The best thing about this device is that it’s extremely easy to install and use. If you’re not adept at using hammers, don’t worry; the only thing you need to be able to do is to operate a screwdriver, drill, or impact driver to install the screws. Give the user manual a read if you’re still unclear on how to program new passcodes or re-key the door.

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