Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of ditching your old house keys and upgrading to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks really safer than the old locks they’re replacing? The simple reply is yes. But before installing one with your Scottsdale smart home, there are several things you should think about.

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

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are frequently lost and easy to copy, which spells trouble if they end up in the wrong hands. Besides, older locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks do away with keys entirely. The options that offer a backup keyed system frequently use a different type of cylinder, so they can’t be circumvented by traditional methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

Even though they’re generally safer than standard locking systems, keypad door locks do come with some risks, like the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes need to be kept confidential. It’s also wise to update them periodically and avoid predictable codes like “1234.” If you want to give a person one-time access, you can create a code and then delete it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a hazard for electronic devices linked to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords frequently. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical glitches: Issues can come up due to a battery failure, software bug, or WiFi disconnection. As a general rule, essential local features like keypad entry still work if your WiFi is not available, but you could lose access to the smartphone app. Smart locks with backup keyed systems can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still function during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when you lose power as it is powered by batteries, not your home’s electricity. You may still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, according to what your system supports.

Why Vivint smart locks are a smart choice for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work seamlessly with other equipment in your smart home. You can switch the lights on automatically when the door is opened, or configure a whole-home scene with multiple automations. For example, you might arm your system, turn lights off, secure your door, and even adjust your thermostat at the same time 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 be aware of who’s coming and going as Vivint systems monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also assign as many as 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Scottsdale smart home security

Would you like to unlock or lock your door remotely and establish custom actions that activate your smart locks and other components at the same time? You can do it with Vivint. Place a call to (480) 681-6262 to find out more about our systems and get help designing your own Scottsdale smart home.