Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of ditching house keys and moving to a modern smart lock, but you’re worried about safety. Are keypad door locks actually safer than their old-school counterparts? The simple reply is yes. But before installing one with your Bloomington smart home, there are several things you should think about.

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

The main issue with traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are often misplaced and easy to copy, which leads to disaster if they get into the wrong hands. On top of that, older locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key completely. The options that provide a backup keyed lock typically use a different kind of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

While they’re generally safer than traditional locking systems, keypad door locks do come with some risks, like the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes must be kept secure. It’s also a good idea to update them periodically and never use obvious codes like “1234.” If you need to give somebody single-time access, you can configure a code and then remove it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a concern for electronic devices linked to your smart home. Offset the risk by regularly updating apps, firmware, and passwords. Use two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical problems: Issues can arise due to a battery failure, software bug, or WiFi disconnection. Generally speaking, core local features like a PIN code still work even when your WiFi is offline, but you could lose app functionality. Models with backup keyed locks can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still work during an outage as it is powered by batteries, not your wired electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, depending on what your system offers.

Why select Vivint smart locks for your Bloomington home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other equipment in your smart home. You can make a rule to turn the lights on whenever the door is opened, or create a complete scene with multiple automations. To illustrate, you might arm your system, dim lighting, secure your door, and even lower your thermostat all at once 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 get insights into who’s coming and going as Vivint systems track smart lock codes. You can also create up to 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Bloomington home security

Would you like to unlock or lock your door remotely and establish custom actions that engage your smart locks and other components all at once? It’s possible with Vivint. Call (812) 579-4884 to find out more about our systems and start designing your own Bloomington smart home.