Weiser FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Find your answer in our extensive list of frequently asked questions regarding every topic from installation troubleshooting, keying, to cleaning & care.

  • Smartkey

  • How do I re-key using SmartKey?
  • How do I recover a jammed or misprogrammed SmartKey cylinder?
    SmartKey Troubleshooting: How to recover a misprogrammed cylinder
    SmartKey Troubleshooting: How to recover a misprogrammed cylinder
  • I have an old Weiser key, will it work with SmartKey?
    In 2009, Weiser introduced SmartKey. SmartKey technology is more secure than a traditional pin and tumbler lock. SmartKey re-key technology provides additional security:
    • SmartKey is available in an ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt- certified the highest level of residential security.
    • SmartKey offers BumpGuard™ protection, to protect against lock bumping, an attack technique that can defeat conventional pin and tumbler locks.
    • SmartKey is pick-resistant and passes the highest test standard against lock picking—UL 437.
    • SmartKey provides the flexibility to re-key your locks, yourself, in seconds, as frequently as you wish. If you lose a key or loan out a key that you didn't get back, you can re-key your locks and secure your home in seconds.
    To learn more about SmartKey click here.
  • Where do I get extra keys if I want to re-key my SmartKey lock?
    You can purchase online or in most retail stores the Weiser SmartKey Re-Key kit. The kit comes with 4 pre-cut replacement “everyday” keys and 2 pre-cut “temporary” keys. Use the “everday” keys to quickly re-key your SmartKey locks to a new key. Use the “temporary” keys to re-key a specific lock for temporary access for a housekeeper, guests, or contractor. You can also purchase extra keys at any hardware store. SmartKey is compatible with the KW1 keyway.
  • Is a Weiser lock with SmartKey re-key technology more secure than a traditional pin and tumbler lock?
    Yes, SmartKey re-key technology provides additional security:
    • SmartKey is available in an ANSI Grade 1 deadbolt- certified the highest level of residential security.
    • SmartKey offers BumpGuard™ protection, to protect against lock bumping, an attack technique that can defeat conventional pin and tumbler locks.
    • SmartKey is pick-resistant and passes the highest test standard against lock picking—UL 437.
    • SmartKey provides the flexibility to re-key your locks, yourself, in seconds, as frequently as you wish. If you lose a key or loan out a key that you didn't get back, you can re-key your locks and secure your home in seconds.
  • If SmartKey is so easy to re-key, what will prevent someone from being able to re-key my locks?
    SmartKey locks can only be re-keyed if you have the current functioning key and the SmartKey Learn Tool. If someone does not have the current functioning key, then that person will not be able to re-key your locks.
  • Am I limited to how many times a SmartKey lock can be re-keyed?
    No, by re-keying your lock, your old key is now obsolete. The new key becomes the current functional key that works with your lock and can be used to re-key your lock in the future.
  • What happens if I lose my current key?
    If you lose the functioning key(s), you would need to either take the SmartKey lock back to the home improvement retailer or an authorized Weiser locksmith to reset the lock, just as you would with any conventional lock. Once reset, SmartKey will function normally.
  • What is Lock Bumping?
    For many years, Locksmith Professionals have utilized several methods and tools to bypass pin and tumbler locks for legal purposes. One such technique is called "bumping". Lock bumping, also referred to as key bumping is an attack technique using specially cut keys, known as bump keys, that can defeat conventional pin and tumbler door locks.
  • How is Lock Bumping Done?
    Lock Bumping uses the basic principles of physics by inserting a specially cut 'bump-key' (also referred to as a 999 key) into the lock, then by using any type of object the key is then struck or 'bumped'. The energy transferred from the impact forces the pins within the lock up above the shear line for a fraction of a second enabling the lock to be opened.
  • What makes SmartKey unable to be bumped?
    SmartKey's side-locking bar technology eliminates the typical sheer line, pins and tumbler mechanisms in its design, which are the most vulnerable points in conventional residential locks.
  • Is lock-bumping the same as lock-picking?
    No, lock-picking is actually the act of unlocking a lock by manipulating the components of the lock device, without the original key, which requires a pretty high level of skill and practice.
  • What is being done to prevent Lock Bumping?

    State and federal laws prohibit the distribution of 'locksmithing devices' to anyone other than lock manufacturers or others with a recognized legal purpose. Weiser is working closely with the industry trade association, Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association ('BHMA'), to minimize the risk that such devices can be obtained by individuals for improper purposes.

     

  • Warranty

  • How do I get warranty replacement parts?
    Proof of purchase (copy of the receipt or barcode) is required to get replacement parts under warranty. (Warranty covers the original purchaser of the Weiser product). Call us at 1-800-501-9471 and a Consumer Service Representative will be more than happy to assist you.
  • There is a problem with the finish of my lockset. What can I do?
    If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, you may return the product to the original store you purchased it from along with the proof of purchase (original sales receipt) for refund. Please review return policy from your sales receipt as the return policy may vary from store to store. Weiser can ONLY be responsible for replacing locks or lock components concerning a warranty issue.
  • My lock broke, what can I do?
    Proof of purchase (copy of the receipt or barcode) is required to get a warranty claim started. (Warranty covers the original purchaser of the Weiser product). Call us at 1-800-501-9471 and a Consumer Service Representative will be more than happy to assist you.
  • How do I take care of my hardware?
    For proper cleaning of our hardware, we suggest using warm, soapy water and then towel-dry the hardware. It is also recommended to clean these high-touch surfaces on a regular basis.

  • Security

  • What is BHMA / ANSI?

    Industry security standards ensure the quality and durability of locks within defined benchmarks of operation and security. The two most highly recognized and widely accepted organizations for assessing the quality of locks are the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

    BHMA

    BHMA CertifiedANSI/ BHMA (Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association) Grading System is accredited by the America National Standards Institute (ANSI), a private non-profit organization that administers and coordinates the voluntary standardization to develop and maintain performance standards for builder's hardware. ANSI/BHMA standards set forth different product grades for door hardware products. These product grades are defined by progressive levels of performance benchmarks in each applicable standard. The purpose of each is to help identify the quality and durability of locksets through a series of operational and security tests.

    UL Logo

    UL Standards and the Underwriters Laboratories is an independent product safety certification organization. UL 437 is a security rating that provides a barometer for the security of a keyed lock. Our Weiser deadbolts, featuring SmartKey Re-key Technology, met the UL 437 11.6.1 pick test, one of the toughest picking tests in the world. During the test, picking tools are used to manipulate the components of the lock device, which requires a high level of skill and practice.

    American Standard Deadbolt Security diagram

    According to ANSI standards (ANSI Code 156.2, Series 4000), the following scale is used to grade locks. Each grade specifies minimum acceptable requirements for operation, key torque cycles, pull strength, impact resistance and finish.

    Grade 1: Weiser products meeting Grade 1 status.

    deadbolts

    Weiser Deadbolt, which also passed the most stringent lock-picking tests, the UL 437 lock picking test, and the Japanese picking test.

  • I'm concerned about home security, do you have any suggestions?
    HOME SECURITY CHECKLIST
    At Weiser we are committed to improving your security with quality door hardware products. We also have prepared the following checklist to help you make your house a safe place to be.
    AROUND YOUR HOUSE...
    DOORS
    • Install a wide-angle peep hole.
    • Entrance doors should have a solid core.
    • Doors should fit tightly into door jambs and strike plates must be secure.
    • If hinge pins are outside, they should be non-removable.
    • When closed, sliding doors need a metal bar to fill the inside track.
    • Door locks on the inside of the door should be at least 40 inches from glass
    • Use deadbolt locks that extend at least 1 inch into the strike plate.
    • Door locks should be replaced after you take possession of your new home.
    WINDOWS
    • Double hung windows should be pinned.
    • Metal windows need a lock or metal bar in addition to a catch.
    • Basement windows should be Plexiglass or have security bars.
    • Windows left open for ventilation should be secured.
    • Curtains or blinds should fully cover windows.
    • Air conditioners should be secured from the inside.
    EXTERIOR
    • Keep shrubs cut below window level.
    • Your house number should be easily visible from the street.
    • Make sure front and back doorways are well lit or spot lit.
    • Keep bicycles, lawn mowers, and other gear inside and out of sight.
    • Join Neighborhood Watch and Operation Identification, and display the decals on your front and back doors.
    GARAGE
    • Keep your garage door closed and locked when not in use.
    • Remove vehicle keys and lock vehicles in the garage.
    • Have a light inside the garage.
    AROUND YOUR APARTMENT ...
    • Open the lobby door only for people you know. Unknown or suspicious persons should be reported to the building superintendent.
    • Use your initials and last name to identify yourself on the lobby list.
    • When moving in, have the superintendent change the locks.
    • If you are out, arrange for deliveries to be received by the building superintendent or a neighbor.
    • Check the elevator before you enter it and stay near the control panel.
    • Do not go into laundry rooms alone.
    • Check your car before entering it.
    • Keep your car locked and remove any valuable portable items.
    • Do not store valuable items in an apartment locker.
    ALARMS
    • Alarms monitored 24 hours by a Central Alarm Station service are recommended.
    • Alarms should protect the full perimeter of your residence.
    WHILE ON VACATION...
    • Stop delivered items such as newspaper subscriptions.
    • Store valuables in a safety deposit box.
    • Use timers to automatically turn lights on and off.
    • Have a neighbor or friend pick up hand bills and mail.
    • Arrange to have snow shoveled and the grass cut.
    YOUR PERSONAL SECURITY
    • Do not open the door until you confirm the person's identity.
    • If somebody asks to use your phone, have them wait outside while you make the call for them.
    • Do not give out personal information to telephone solicitors.
    • If you arrive home and suspect a break-in, leave and call the police.
    • Never indicate that you're not home on your telephone answering machine.
    • If you lose your keys, change your door locks.
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