A Yale expert explains why changing your locks and cylinders should be a top priority on  your moving home checklist

Moving home is exciting but can also be stressful. With endless to-dos, from packing boxes to setting up utilities, it is easy to overlook one of the most critical security steps, and one that often is left out of the list of things to do when moving home: changing your locks and cylinders.

You might think you know everything about locks, but let's take a quick moment to refresh our understanding. A lock is a device, either mechanical or electronic, designed to secure objects like doors, cabinets, or safes. They can be operated using a key, a combination, or an electronic code.

Now, let's talk about the lock cylinder, which is essentially the heart of the lock. This is where the key is inserted and turned to lock or unlock the device. Typically made from durable materials like brass, the cylinder contains a series of pins, springs, and other components that work together to keep the lock secure. Lock cylinders come in various types; some are interchangeable, allowing for easy replacement and key system changes, while others are fixed and permanent, requiring full lock replacement.

Now that we know the difference between locks and cylinders, our Yale expert answers some of the most commonly asked security questions about changing locks:

Ask yourself, "Who has the keys to my house?" If you can't confidently answer this question, then you should consider changing your lock or cylinder. Even in a brand-new home, various people may have had access to your keys during the process of building and selling the property, so it's wise to change the locks.

Our Yale range offers cylinders that meet all security standards and are easy to install yourself or can be quickly replaced by a locksmith. We provide a wide selection of door locks to meet any security requirement, door type, or intended use. This includes options for high-security front and back doors, as well as internal and decorative doors. Designed to fit wooden, PVCu, and composite doors, the Yale range offers a variety of security options to ensure your home is as protected as possible.

If you want to change your locks and are looking for a more modern, convenient, and secure way to update your home security, it may be worth investing in a smart lock. Smart locks, like the Linus® Smart Lock L2, provide greater control with features like keyless entry and remote access. This means you can lock or unlock your door from anywhere, or even provide temporary access to trusted guests without handing out a physical key.

However, while upgrading to a smart lock, it's also important to remember the role of the cylinder, as it is a crucial component that secures your doors. Ensuring your existing cylinder is robust and compatible with your smart lock is essential for maintaining overall security. If it does not meet these requirements, it may be worth upgrading your cylinder to a high-security alternative as well.

Linus® L2 has been specifically designed to fit most locks and cylinders in Europe, to make the switch possible for even more consumers worldwide. In most cases, upgrading your locks to smart locks can dramatically improve your home’s security while also offering enhanced convenience for the entire family.

Aside from moving, there are plenty of other reasons to consider changing your locks including:

• Upgrading your security with new locks 
• Ensuring they meet the requirements of your insurance policy
• Restricting access if someone you no longer trust has a key to your home
• Replacing damaged locks
• Enhancing security after a break-in

The Yale range of locks includes high-security locks that are approved and have anti-pick, anti-drill, anti-bump, anti-snap, and anti-plug extraction features, offering peace of mind. No matter your reason for upgrading your locks, Yale has the perfect replacement to suit any security needs.

While completing your moving home checklist, make sure you prioritise your security. Changing your locks is a small but essential step to ensure that only you and your trusted circle have access to your new space.  

Explore the Yale range of locks and cylinders today and make your home truly safe and secure.