Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of ditching your old house keys and switching to a modern smart locking system, but you have concerns about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than their old-school counterparts? The quick response is yes. But before adding one to your Grand Rapids smart home, there are a few things you should think about.

Why upgrading to a smart lock makes sense for your Grand Rapids home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and easy to copy, which spells trouble if they fall into the wrong hands. On top of that, older locks are more vulnerable to bumping, picking, and forcing. Modern smart locks do away with keys entirely. The ones that offer a backup keyed lock usually use a different type of cylinder, making them resistant to traditional break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

Although generally safer than older locking systems, keypad door locks do come with some risks, like the following:

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also wise to update them periodically and steer clear of obvious codes like “1234.” If you want to give somebody single-time access, you can create a code and then delete it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a concern for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Reduce the risk by updating passwords, apps, and firmware frequently. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical issues: A software bug, battery failure, or WiFi disconnection can lead to issues. Generally speaking, essential local features like a PIN code still work if your WiFi is not available, but you could lose smartphone app functionality. Smart options with backup keyed systems can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still function during power failures?

Yes, your smart lock should still function when power is lost as it gets power from batteries, not your wired electricity. You can still use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, depending on what your system offers.

Why select Vivint smart locks for your Grand Rapids home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work seamlessly with other devices within your smart home ecosystem. You can set a rule to switch the lights on automatically any time the door is opened, or establish a complete scene with multiple automations. For instance, you can dim lights, secure your door, arm your system, and even change your thermostat simultaneously when you head to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home equipment is completely accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always be aware of who’s exiting and entering as Vivint systems monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also assign up to 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Grand Rapids smart home

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and establishing custom actions that operate your smart locks and other equipment at the same time? You can do it with Vivint. Place a call to (616) 747-8419 to learn more about our systems and let us help you design your own Grand Rapids smart home.