Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of ditching your old house keys and upgrading to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a concern. Are keypad door locks really safer than the old-school locks they’re replacing? The simple response is yes. But before adding one to your New Brunswick smart home, there are a few things you should consider.

Why upgrading to a smart lock makes sense for your New Brunswick home

The main issue with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are frequently lost and simple to copy, which leads to disaster if they end up in the wrong hands. On top of that, older locks are more vulnerable to bumping, picking, and forcing. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key completely. The models that have a backup keyed system frequently use a different style of cylinder, making them resistant to common break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

Even though they’re generally safer than traditional locking systems, keypad door locks do have some risks, like the following:

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also wise to change them periodically and avoid easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you need to give someone single-time access, you can create a code and then delete it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a concern for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords regularly. Incorporate two-factor identification if possible.
  
  
• Technical problems: A software bug, battery failure, or WiFi disconnection can cause issues. Generally speaking, essential local features like keypad entry still work if your WiFi is not available, but you could lose app functionality. Smart options with backup keyed locks can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still function during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still work when your power goes out as it gets power from batteries, not your home electricity. You may still use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, depending on what your system uses.

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work reliably with other equipment within your smart home ecosystem. You can make a rule to switch the lights on any time the door is opened, or create a whole-home scene with multiple automations. To illustrate, you can arm your system, dim lighting, fasten your door, and even change your thermostat all at once when you go to bed. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home devices are completely accessible from the convenience of 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 up to 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your New Brunswick smart home

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and establishing custom actions that operate your smart locks and other equipment simultaneously? It’s possible with Vivint. Contact (732) 607-4656 to learn more about our systems and let us help you design your own New Brunswick smart home.