Netatmo launches omajin, a new smart home brand
Explore Netatmo's Energy Deals from 8 to 14 October!Shop now
Choosing the right cylinder is a crucial step in keeping your front door as secure as possible. Disengageable, knob-operated, pump-operated... Nickel, chrome, brass, platinum... There are so many different products to compare, it can be hard to choose! If you’re looking to change the lock on an external door, read on to find out which type of cylinder will best meet your home security needs.
The cylinder is an essential part of a lock, as serves to open and close the door. It generally consists of a metal cylinder into which a key is inserted to activate the locking mechanism.
A lock cylinder (also known as a barrel) is made up of various parts:
Bear in mind that the components in a lock cylinder vary according to the type of cylinder (e.g. pin tumbler, disc tumbler, etc.) and the manufacturer. However, the parts described above are generally found in most models.
There are various types to choose from, each with its own specific features and benefits, so let’s take a look at how they compare.
Often used in front door locks. It’s cylindrical in shape with a flat key inserted at the end. A set of pins are arranged along the length of the cylinder, and when you insert the key and turn it, they line up so the door opens.
This type of cylinder uses stacked discs which must be correctly aligned by the key to release the locking mechanism. Disc tumblers often offer a higher level of security than pin tumblers.
A disengageable cylinder is a type of lock cylinder with a special feature that allows the locking mechanism to be manipulated even when the key is already inserted and in the locked position. In other words, it allows the lock to be temporarily deactivated for manual operation without having to turn the key.
This type of cylinder uses moving wafers rather than pins. The wafers are arranged in the cylinder in such a way that only the right key can push them into the correct position, opening the locking mechanism.
These cylinders use electronic components to control the locking mechanism. They can be opened with an electronic key, RFID card, PIN code or even remotely via a wireless connection, avoiding the need for conventional keys.
These cylinder types can vary in terms of security, complexity, compatibility with different types of locks and locking systems. All these factors are likely to affect the price you pay, and don’t forget delivery costs and VAT, too. It’s important to choose the right product for your specific needs in terms of security and functionality.
When choosing a new lock cylinder for your front door, it’s important to consider several factors, including how secure it will be, its level of quality and its compatibility with your existing locking system.
1. Opt for a high-security lock cylinder, as they offer better protection against break-ins. Cylinders are available with features such as:
2. Check certifications: When buying a new lock cylinder, look for one that’s been tested and certified by recognised security organisations. In Europe, for example, lock cylinders can be certified to EN 1303 standard. This standard guarantees the reliability of a cylinder based on 8 criteria such as endurance, resistance to corrosion and temperature, and resistance to drilling.
The Smart Door Lock meets the most stringent requirements, ensuring the highest level of mechanical and electronic security for your home, in accordance with standard EN15684. It is meticulously crafted to protect you from physical break-in attempts such as picking, drilling, tampering, cutting and forced entry. The cylinder, designed by Netatmo, is made from highly durable stainless steel, reinforced with an anti-drilling pad and 3 security pins for optimum protection.
There’s also A2P (Assurance Prévention Protection) certification, which ensures that the lock, and therefore the cylinder, offers a high level of protection.
3. Ensure compatibility: Check that the lock cylinder you choose is compatible with your front door’s locking system. Measure the length of the existing cylinder and make sure the new cylinder is the right size for your door.
4. Consider a reversible key: Some lock cylinders offer reversible keys, meaning that the key can be inserted into the cylinder either way round. This can be very handy, and avoids the problem of accidentally inserting the key the wrong way round.
5. Consult a professional: If you have any doubts or specific security requirements, it may be a good idea to contact a professional locksmith for advice and recommendations tailored to your specific needs. They should be able to tell you which models are highly rated and what price you can expect to pay. Choosing a highly rated product with advanced features could be well worth it for the extra peace of mind you gain.
It’s important to choose a quality lock cylinder to keep your front door secure. Consider investing in a high-security lock cylinder that meets your specific needs, and make sure you install it correctly to ensure maximum efficiency.