Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of eliminating house keys and upgrading to a modern smart lock, but you’re concerned about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than their old-school counterparts? The simple response is yes. But before installing one with your Seattle smart home, there are several things you should consider.

Why smart locks are a better choice for your Seattle home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are frequently lost and easy to copy, which can be a real problem if they fall to the wrong person. Besides, older door locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks do away with keys completely. The models that offer a backup keyed system typically use a different style of cylinder, making them resistant to common break-in methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

Although generally safer than standard locking systems, keypad door locks do have some risks, such as the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also smart to update them often and never use obvious codes like “1234.” If you want to give someone one-time access, you can set a code and then eliminate it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a risk to electronic devices linked to your smart home. Offset the risk by updating apps, firmware, and passwords regularly. Integrate two-factor identification if possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: A software bug, battery failure, or WiFi disconnection can cause problems. Generally speaking, core local features like the keypad still work even when your WiFi is not available, but you may lose access to the smartphone app. Smart options with backup keyed systems can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still function during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still work during an outage as it runs on battery power, not your home’s electricity. You may still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, depending on what your system supports.

Why Vivint smart locks are a smart choice for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work smoothly with other devices in your smart home. You can make a rule to switch the lights on automatically when the door is unlocked, or create a full-fledged scene with several automations. For example, you might arm your system, turn lights off, lock your door, and even change your thermostat at the same time when you head to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home components are fully accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always know who’s coming and going as Vivint systems track smart lock codes. You can also assign up to 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Seattle smart home

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and integrating custom actions that operate your smart locks and other equipment simultaneously? You can do it with Vivint. Place a call to (206) 590-6257 to explore our systems and start designing your own Seattle smart home.