Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of getting rid of house keys and switching to a modern smart locking system, but you’re worried about safety. Are keypad door locks truly safer than their time-honored counterparts? The easy answer is yes. But before installing one with your San Antonio smart home, there are some things you should consider.

Why switching to a smart lock makes sense for your San Antonio home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are often misplaced and easy to copy, which leads to disaster if they end up in the wrong hands. In addition, older door locks are more vulnerable to picking, bumping, and forcing. Modern smart locks do away with keys completely. The ones that offer a backup keyed system typically use a more secure type of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

While they’re typically safer than traditional locking systems, keypad door locks do have some risks, including the following:

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes need to be kept secure. It’s also a good idea to update them often and steer clear of predictable codes like “1234.” If you need to give someone single-time access, you can create a code and then remove it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a concern for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Reduce the risk by regularly updating passwords, apps, and firmware. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical glitches: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can lead to issues. However, core local features like the keypad still work if your WiFi is offline, but you might lose access to the smartphone app. Smart options with backup keyed systems can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still function during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still function when power is lost as it gets power from batteries, not your home’s electricity. You may still use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, based on what your system offers.

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other equipment within your smart home environment. You can set a rule to turn the lights on automatically any time the door is opened, or establish a full-fledged scene with several automations. For example, you can arm your system, dim lighting, lock your door, and even change your thermostat all at once when you go to bed. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home equipment is completely accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

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

Vivint is the key to your San Antonio home security

Would you like to lock and unlock your door remotely and incorporate custom actions that operate your smart locks and other components all at once? You can do it with Vivint. Contact (210) 934-3694 to learn more about our systems and start designing your own San Antonio smart home.