Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of ditching your old house keys and switching to a modern smart lock, but you have concerns about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than their classic counterparts? The quick answer is yes. But before integrating one into your Stockton smart home, there are a few things you should think about.

Why upgrading to a smart lock makes sense for your Stockton home

The main issue with traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are frequently lost and simple to copy, which spells trouble if they fall into the wrong hands. On top of that, older door locks are simpler to pick, bump, and force. Modern smart locks do away with keys altogether. The models that offer a backup keyed system typically use a different type of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

Although generally safer than traditional locking systems, keypad door locks do have some risks, like the following:

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes have to be kept confidential. It’s also a good idea to update them regularly and never use predictable codes like “1234.” If you want to give someone one-time-only access, you can configure a code and then eliminate it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a concern for electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by updating apps, firmware, and passwords often. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical problems: Issues can arise due to a software bug, WiFi drop, or battery failure. As a general rule, essential local features like keypad entry still work even when your WiFi is offline, but you might lose app functionality. Smart options with backup keyed systems can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still work during power failures?

Yes, your smart lock should still work during a blackout as it is powered by batteries, not your wired electricity. You can still use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, depending on what your system uses.

Why Vivint smart locks are a smart choice for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work reliably with other equipment within your smart home environment. You can set a rule to turn the lights on automatically whenever the door is opened, or establish a full-fledged scene with several automations. For instance, you might dim lighting, secure your door, arm your system, and even adjust your thermostat at the same time when you call it a day. The best part is that 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 coming and going as Vivint systems track smart lock codes. You can also set up to 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Stockton smart home

Would you like to unlock or lock your door remotely and incorporate custom actions that engage your smart locks and other equipment at the same time? It’s doable with Vivint. Call (209) 379-0036 to find out more about our systems and let us help you design your own Stockton smart home.