Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of ditching traditional house keys and upgrading to a modern smart locking system, but you’re worried about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than the old-school locks they’re replacing? The simple response is yes. But before integrating one into your Bellingham smart home, there are some things you should know.

Why smart locks are the best option for your Bellingham home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and easy to copy, which leads to disaster if they get into the wrong hands. On top of that, older locks are simpler to pick, bump, and force. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key completely. The models that provide a backup keyed system usually use a more secure kind of cylinder, making them resistant to established break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes must be kept confidential. It’s also a good idea to change them often and never use 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 been used.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a hazard for electronic devices linked to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by regularly updating passwords, apps, and firmware. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: A software bug, battery failure, or WiFi disconnection can lead to problems. Generally speaking, core local features like the keypad still work even if your WiFi is not available, but you might lose smartphone app functionality. Smart locks with backup keyed systems can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still work during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate during a blackout as it runs on battery power, not your wired electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, based on what your system offers.

Why choose Vivint smart locks for your Bellingham home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work seamlessly with other equipment in your smart home. You can turn the lights on any time the door is opened, or configure a full-fledged scene with multiple automations. To illustrate, you can secure your door, arm your system, switch lights off, and even change your thermostat all at once when you head to bed. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home devices are completely accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s coming and going as Vivint systems monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also set as many as 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Bellingham smart home

Would you like to unlock or lock your door remotely and incorporate custom actions that operate your smart locks and other components simultaneously? You can do it with Vivint. Contact (360) 968-8970 to explore our systems and start designing your own Bellingham smart home.