Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of eliminating your old house keys and upgrading to a modern smart locking system, but you’re worried about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than their classic counterparts? The easy reply is yes. But before installing one with your St. Petersburg smart home, there are a few things you should consider.

Why smart locks are a better option for your St. Petersburg home

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and easy to copy, which leads to disaster if they get into the wrong hands. On top of that, older door locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key completely. The models that provide a backup keyed system usually use a more secure type of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes have to be kept confidential. It’s also smart to update them often and never use easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you have to give someone single-time access, you can create a code and then eliminate it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a risk to electronic devices connected to your smart home. Offset the risk by regularly updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Incorporate two-factor identification if possible.
  
  
• Technical problems: Issues can pop 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 not available, but you could lose access to the smartphone app. Smart locks with backup keyed locks can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still function during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when power is lost as it runs on battery power, not your wired electricity. You can still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, based on what your system supports.

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

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work reliably with other components in your smart home. You can make a rule to turn the lights on automatically whenever the door is opened, or configure a whole-home scene with many automations. For instance, you can dim lights, fasten your door, arm your system, and even adjust your thermostat simultaneously when you go to bed. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home devices are totally accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s entering and exiting 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 St. Petersburg home security

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and integrating custom actions that activate your smart locks and other devices all at once? It’s possible with Vivint. Place a call to (727) 353-8318 to find out more about our systems and start designing your own St. Petersburg smart home.