Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of getting rid of your old house keys and moving to a modern smart locking system, but you have concerns about safety. Are keypad door locks truly safer than their classic counterparts? The simple answer is yes. But before installing one with your Louisville smart home, there are a few things you should consider.

Why switching to a smart lock makes sense for your Louisville home

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are often misplaced and easy to copy, which spells trouble if they end up with the wrong person. Besides, older door locks are easier to pick, bump, and force. Modern smart locks do away with keys altogether. The ones that offer a backup keyed lock usually use a more secure kind of cylinder, making them resistant to common break-in methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

While they’re generally safer than traditional locking systems, keypad door locks do carry some risks, such as the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes must be kept secure. It’s also a good idea to update them regularly and avoid obvious codes like “1234.” If you have to give someone one-time access, you can create a code and then eliminate it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a hazard for electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Offset the risk by frequently updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Integrate two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical problems: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can cause issues. As a general rule, core local features like a PIN code still work if your WiFi is not available, but you could lose access to the smartphone app. Smart options with backup keyed locks can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still work during power failures?

Yes, your smart lock should still work during an outage as it is powered by batteries, not your home electricity. You can still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, based on what your system offers.

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work smoothly with other components within your smart home ecosystem. You can turn the lights on any time the door is opened, or create a complete scene with several automations. To illustrate, you might arm your system, turn lights off, lock your door, and even change your thermostat at the same time when you call it a day. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home components are totally accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s coming and going as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also assign up to 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Louisville home security

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and integrating custom actions that activate your smart locks and other devices all at once? It’s doable with Vivint. Call (502) 483-0778 to explore our systems and let us help you design your own Louisville smart home.