Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of ditching house keys and upgrading to a modern smart locking system, but safety is still a concern. Are keypad door locks actually safer than the keyed locks they replace? The quick answer is yes. But before installing one with your Oceanside smart home, there are several things you should think about.

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

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are often lost and simple to copy, which spells trouble if they end up in the wrong hands. On top of that, older door locks are simpler to bump, pick, and force. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key entirely. The ones that provide a backup keyed lock usually use a more secure style of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

Are there any risks with keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes have to be kept confidential. It’s also smart to update them often and never use predictable codes like “1234.” If you want to give a person one-time-only access, you can set a code and then delete it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a risk to electronic devices connected to your smart home. Reduce the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords often. Integrate two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical problems: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can lead to problems. As a general rule, essential local features like a PIN code still work if your WiFi is not available, but you could lose smartphone app functionality. Models with backup keyed locks can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still function during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when power is lost as it is powered by batteries, not your home’s electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, based on what your system offers.

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work reliably with other devices within your smart home environment. You can turn the lights on any time the door is unlocked, or establish a complete scene with several automations. To illustrate, you might fasten your door, arm your system, switch lights off, and even change your thermostat at the same time when you call it a day. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home devices are completely accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

You’ll always know who’s coming and going 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 Oceanside home security

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and establishing custom actions that activate your smart locks and other components simultaneously? It’s possible with Vivint. Contact (760) 304-1641 to find out more about our systems and let us help you design your own Oceanside smart home.