Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of eliminating house keys and switching to a modern smart lock, but you’re concerned about safety. Are keypad door locks actually safer than their time-honored counterparts? The quick answer is yes. But before adding one to your Youngstown smart home, there are some things you should consider.

Why smart locks are the right choice for your Youngstown home

The main issue with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and easy to copy, which spells trouble if they fall to the wrong person. Besides, older locks are simpler to bump, pick, and force. Modern smart locks do away with keys altogether. The models that have a backup keyed lock usually use a more secure kind of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code use: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also smart to change them periodically and avoid obvious codes like “1234.” If you want to give somebody one-time access, you can create a code and then delete it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a hazard for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by frequently updating apps, firmware, and passwords. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical glitches: Issues can pop up due to a software bug, or battery failure. However, vital local features like a PIN code still work if your WiFi is offline, but you could lose app functionality. Smart locks with backup keyed systems can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still work during a power outage?

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

Why pick Vivint smart locks for your Youngstown home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other components within your smart home ecosystem. You can turn the lights on automatically when the door is unlocked, or establish a complete scene with many automations. For instance, you can arm your system, turn lights off, lock your door, and even change your thermostat all at once when you head to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home components are fully accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

You’ll always be aware of who’s entering and exiting as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also create as many as 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Youngstown home security

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and integrating custom actions that operate your smart locks and other components simultaneously? You can do it with Vivint. Place a call to (330) 632-1363 to explore our systems and get help designing your own Youngstown smart home.