Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of getting rid of 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 adding one to your Spokane smart home, there are several things you should think about.

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

The biggest downside of traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are often lost and easy to copy, which can be a real problem if they end up in the wrong hands. In addition, older locks are easier to force, pick, and bump. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key completely. The models that provide a backup keyed lock typically use a different style 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 older locking systems, keypad door locks do come with some risks, like the following:

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also smart 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 delete it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a concern for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Offset the risk by updating apps, firmware, and passwords frequently. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can arise due to a software bug, WiFi drop, or battery failure. As a general rule, vital local features like a PIN code still work even when your WiFi is not available, but you could lose app functionality. Smart options with backup keyed systems can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during power failures?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate during a blackout as it gets power from batteries, not your wired electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, according to what your system offers.

Why Vivint smart locks are a smart choice for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other equipment within your smart home ecosystem. You can set a rule to switch the lights on automatically any time the door is opened, or configure a whole-home scene with several automations. To illustrate, you might arm your system, dim lights, fasten your door, and even lower your thermostat all at once when you call it a day. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home devices are completely accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

You’ll always know who’s exiting and entering as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also create up to 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Spokane smart home

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and integrating custom actions that engage your smart locks and other devices simultaneously? It’s doable with Vivint. Call (509) 794-3440 to learn more about our systems and get help designing your own Spokane smart home.