Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of getting rid of your old house keys and upgrading to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks really safer than the keyed locks they’re replacing? The simple response is yes. But before installing one with your Manhattan smart home, there are several things you should think about.

Why smart locks are the best choice for your Manhattan home

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

Are there any risks with keypad door locks?

Even though they’re generally safer than standard locking systems, keypad door locks do come with some risks, such as the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes have to be kept confidential. It’s also smart to update them often and steer clear of predictable codes like “1234.” If you have to give somebody one-time-only access, you can configure a code and then delete it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a concern for electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Reduce the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords often. Use two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical problems: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can create problems. As a general rule, vital local features like a PIN code still work even when your WiFi is not available, but you may lose app functionality. Models with backup keyed locks can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still work when you lose power as it is powered by batteries, not your home electricity. You can still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, based on what your system supports.

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work seamlessly with other components within your smart home environment. You can make a rule to turn the lights on automatically when the door is opened, or establish a whole-home scene with multiple automations. For instance, you might turn lights off, secure your door, arm your system, and even lower your thermostat simultaneously when you call it a day. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home devices are completely accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always know who’s exiting and entering as Vivint systems monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also create as many as 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Manhattan smart home security

Would you like to lock and unlock your door remotely and integrate custom actions that activate your smart locks and other components all at once? It’s possible with Vivint. Place a call to (332) 208-9869 to learn more about our systems and start designing your own Manhattan smart home.