Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to 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 their classic counterparts? The simple answer is yes. But before integrating one into your St. George smart home, there are several things you should think about.

Why switching to a smart lock makes sense for your St. George home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and simple to copy, which can be a real problem if they end up with the wrong person. Besides, older door locks are simpler to pick, bump, and force. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key completely. The ones that offer a backup keyed system typically use a more secure kind of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes need to be kept confidential. It’s also smart to change them periodically and avoid obvious codes like “1234.” If you have to give a person single-time access, you can set a code and then remove it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a risk to electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Offset the risk by updating apps, firmware, and passwords often. Incorporate two-factor identification if possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can arise due to a software bug, WiFi drop, or battery failure. As a general rule, core local features like keypad entry still work if your WiFi is not available, but you could lose access to the smartphone app. Models with backup keyed locks can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still function during power failures?

Yes, your smart lock should still work when your power goes out as it runs on battery power, not your wired electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, depending on what your system offers.

Why select Vivint smart locks for your St. George home?

Vivint’s smart locks work reliably with other equipment within your smart home ecosystem. You can switch the lights on automatically when the door is opened, or establish a complete scene with multiple automations. For instance, you might fasten your door, arm your system, turn off lights, and even lower your thermostat all at once when you head to bed. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home equipment is fully accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s entering and exiting 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 St. George smart home

Would you like to unlock or lock your door remotely and incorporate custom actions that operate your smart locks and other components all at once? It’s possible with Vivint. Call (435) 375-3735 to learn more about our systems and start designing your own St. George smart home.