How To Choose the Right Lock for Your Unit

Published on 7/29/2022
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How To Choose the Right Lock for Your Unit

Storage units provide a convenient and easy way to store items that would otherwise clutter up your home.  Whether it’s family antiques, your treasured comic book collection, or old clothes and jewelry, it’s important to choose the right lock to keep them safe.

Before purchasing any lock, it would be a good idea to call the storage unit and see what sort of lock they allow on their units. Some facilities require that you only purchase a certain kind of lock, and it would be best to check before making a purchase and possible wasting your money on a lock you can’t use.

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing the best lock for your unit.

Know Yourself

Think about yourself and your strengths and weaknesses for a second when purchasing a lock.

Are you going to be able to remember the combination for that lock 6 months later? Are you prone to losing your keys?

Pick a lock that you’ll still be able to open when you go back to it. If you’re not so sure about keys or combinations, then consider a Bluetooth lock. They open with an app on your phone. If you are also prone to losing your phone, maybe trust someone else with the keys.

Cost

More expensive locks are not necessarily more secure. Consider the packaging and the security features of a lock when making a purchase. A durable lock is more important than a fancy one.

On the other hand, you don’t want to just go with the cheapest option. When you go with the lowest cost it can potentially mean getting a lower quality lock.

Either way, you’ll want to get a better lock than one you would use for your backyard shed or to lock up your bike. Especially when it come to long term storage, where you may not be there every week to check on it.

Location

Outdoor storage units are exposed to rain and a variety of temperatures. A brass lock will not rust and is more resistant to the effects of the weather.  

Another thing to consider with an outdoor unit is vulnerability. Just because there is a fence or other security present does not mean that your storage unit is completely secure. Consider a lock that is tamper-resistant or tamper-proof in order to counteract any would-be burglars.