Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of eliminating your old house keys and upgrading to a modern smart locking system, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks actually safer than their old-school counterparts? The quick answer is yes. But before integrating one into your Asheville smart home, there are a few things you should consider.

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

The main issue with traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are frequently lost and easy to copy, which spells trouble if they fall into the wrong hands. Besides, older door locks are easier to pick, bump, and force. Modern smart locks do away with keys entirely. The options that offer a backup keyed lock frequently use a more secure type of cylinder, so they can’t be circumvented by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code use: Codes must be kept secure. It’s also a good idea to change them often and never use obvious codes like “1234.” If you need to give a person single-time access, you can set a code and then delete it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a hazard for electronic devices linked to your smart home. Offset the risk by frequently updating passwords, apps, and firmware. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical problems: A battery failure, WiFi disconnection, or software bug can lead to problems. However, essential local features like keypad entry still work if your WiFi is down, but you could lose smartphone app functionality. Smart options with backup keyed systems can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still work during power failures?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when you lose power as it runs on battery power, not your home’s electricity. You can still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, depending on what your system offers.

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work smoothly with other devices within your smart home ecosystem. You can turn the lights on automatically whenever the door is unlocked, or create a full-fledged scene with many automations. For example, you might arm your system, turn lights off, lock your door, and even change your thermostat all at once when you go to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home equipment is totally accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always know who’s coming and going as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also set as many as 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Asheville smart home

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and designing custom actions that operate your smart locks and other components at the same time? It’s possible with Vivint. Place a call to (828) 571-7175 to find out more about our systems and let us help you design your own Asheville smart home.