Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of eliminating house keys and upgrading to a modern smart lock, but you’re worried about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than the old-school locks they’re replacing? The easy answer is yes. But before installing one with your Bloomington smart home, there are a few things you should know.

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

The main issue with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are often misplaced and easy to copy, which spells trouble if they end up in the wrong hands. Besides, older locks are easier to bump, pick, and force. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key completely. The models that provide a backup keyed lock usually use a different style of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

Although typically safer than older locking systems, keypad door locks do come with some risks, like the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes must be kept secure. It’s also smart to update them regularly and steer clear of easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you need to give a person single-time access, you can create a code and then eliminate it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a risk to electronic devices linked to your smart home. Offset the risk by frequently updating passwords, apps, and firmware. Integrate two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can come up due to a WiFi disconnection. However, core local features like keypad entry still work if your WiFi is down, but you could lose app functionality. 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 a blackout as it gets power from batteries, not your home electricity. You’ll still be able to 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 reliably with other equipment in your smart home. You can set a rule to turn the lights on when the door is opened, or establish a full-fledged scene with many automations. To illustrate, you can turn lights off, fasten your door, arm your system, and even change your thermostat at the same time when you call it a day. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home devices are totally accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

You’ll always be aware of who’s entering and exiting as Vivint systems monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also create as many as 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Bloomington smart home

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and establishing custom actions that operate your smart locks and other components all at once? It’s possible with Vivint. Call (309) 332-1140 to learn more about our systems and start designing your own Bloomington smart home.