Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of getting rid of house keys and switching to a modern smart locking system, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks actually safer than their classic counterparts? The easy reply is yes. But before adding one to your St. Louis smart home, there are a few things you should think about.

Why smart locks are a better choice for your St. Louis home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are frequently lost and simple to copy, which leads to disaster if they end up in the wrong hands. Besides, older door locks are more vulnerable to picking, bumping, and forcing. Modern smart locks do away with keys entirely. The ones that offer a backup keyed system typically use a more secure kind of cylinder, making them resistant to common break-in methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

Although generally safer than older locking systems, keypad door locks do carry some risks, such as the following:

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also smart to update them regularly and steer clear of predictable codes like “1234.” If you have to give a person single-time access, you can configure a code and then delete it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a risk to electronic devices connected to your smart home. Reduce the risk by frequently updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can come up due to a battery failure, software bug, or WiFi disconnection. However, vital local features like the keypad still work even if your WiFi is offline, but you might lose access to the smartphone app. Smart options with backup keyed locks can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still function during power failures?

Yes, your smart lock should still function during a blackout as it gets power from batteries, not your home’s electricity. You can still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, based on what your system offers.

Why pick Vivint smart locks for your St. Louis home?

Vivint’s smart locks work smoothly with other devices in your smart home. You can make a rule to turn the lights on any time the door is opened, or configure a complete scene with several automations. For example, you might turn lights off, lock your door, arm your system, and even lower your thermostat all at once when you go to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home components are completely accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

You’ll always know who’s exiting and entering as Vivint systems track smart lock codes. You can also create up to 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your St. Louis smart home

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and integrating custom actions that operate your smart locks and other devices simultaneously? It’s possible with Vivint. Contact (314) 866-4556 to find out more about our systems and let us help you design your own St. Louis smart home.