Updated July 2025
Fact checked by Eric Schoneberger
Are Level locks secure?
Yes, Level locks are a safe, secure choice — built to withstand real-world threats and keep your home protected. The placement of the batteries within the deadbolt does not compromise its integrity or effectiveness. Let's delve deeper into the reasons why Level locks are safe:
Robust construction: Level locks are crafted from high-quality materials and undergo rigorous testing to ensure they meet the highest security standards (more on this later). The internal components are expertly engineered to provide strength and durability, even with the battery compartment.
Hidden security: The battery compartment is cleverly concealed within the deadbolt, making it virtually indistinguishable from a traditional lock on the outside. This discreet design won’t stand out to potential burglars.
Smart technology: Level locks leverage advanced technology to enhance security. Features like encryption, activity monitoring, and remote access control provide greater peace of mind and allow you to manage your lock's security from anywhere.
ANSI 156.40 Grade 1 / ANSI Grade A tested: Level locks meet the highest level of residential deadbolt security, meaning they pass stringent ANSI benchmarks, including:
Bolt strength: holds at least 1 350 lb‑f side load
Bolt impact: survives 2 blows at 148 ft‑lb (~200 J)
Bolt saw: resists sawing for at least 5 minutes at 5 lb‑f
Bolt compressive load: withstands 150 lb‑f
Cycle durability: over 250 000 lock/unlock cycles
Slam test: endures 10 000 automatic slams
ESD protection: Level 4 electrostatic discharge rated
These aren’t just specs—they’re real-world protections that ensure Level locks are as tough as the most secure traditional deadbolts.
A hollow bolt, by design
Level’s signature design places the battery inside the deadbolt itself—an innovation that naturally raises questions. Does a hollow bolt mean weaker security? In short: no. It’s a smarter, more thoughtful approach to home access that doesn’t compromise on strength or safety.
Inside a traditional deadbolt lock is hollow too
Did you know that the majority of standard deadbolts on the market today have a hollow bolt? The biggest difference is that within the hollow interior of the Level Lock's bolt, you'll find not empty space, but a compact and powerful battery system. This ingenious integration allows the Level Lock to maintain a sleek and minimalist aesthetic while incorporating the necessary power source for its advanced smart lock functionalities.
Don’t believe us? Watch Jon Rettinger cut open a deadbolt and see for yourself that standard residential deadbolts are hollow.
How do I know if my deadbolt is secure?
The only way to know for sure how secure any lock is would be to check the ANSI security ratings or BHMA grading.
The current ANSI grading system has 3 grades; Grade 1 being the highest awarded to the strongest locks, then Grade 2, and finally Grade 3. ANSI grading for deadbolts is about overall strength, which contributes to product longevity, as well as resistance to forced entry attempts. Separately, there is a BHMA grading system that rates residential hardware, like locks, with letters A, B, or C based on security, durability, and finish; the best possible BHMA grade is AAA.
Level locks meet the highest residential security standards
Level locks are certified to the highest residential security levels, including ANSI 156.40 Grade 1/A and BHMA AAA for complete locksets.
We use premium materials like 440C stainless steel in the bolt tube—commonly found in industrial-strength applications—to ensure lasting strength and corrosion resistance.
→ Download our BHMA Certification
→ See our Materials Certification
And on the digital side, the Level Home app uses best-in-class encryption to protect your data and keep your lock secure from anywhere.
Why is the Level lock reset button hidden?
Level locks include a discreet reset button that's safely tucked away on the side of the motor—only accessible when the lock is removed from the door. You’ll need a small tool, like a paperclip, to press it.
This design helps prevent accidental resets and guards against tampering. Because the button is deliberately hard to access, no one can reset the lock without physically removing it from the door—making sure that only you, or someone you trust, can perform a reset. That adds another layer of protection and reinforces the lock’s overall security.
Holding the button for 8–10 seconds will reset the lock to factory settings, removing all keys and data. It's a simple, secure way to start fresh when troubleshooting or transferring the lock.
Learn how to reset your lock to factory settings→
Ready to learn more about Level locks?
Explore Level locks to see how security and functionality have been melded with expertly crafted design, or, learn more about Level lock security and tech specs.
