Are keypad door locks safe?

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

Why switching to a smart lock makes sense for your Morgantown home

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are often lost and simple to copy, which leads to disaster if they end up with the wrong person. On top of that, older door locks are more vulnerable to picking, bumping, and forcing. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key completely. The options that provide a backup keyed lock usually use a different type of cylinder, so they can’t be circumvented by traditional methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code use: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also a good idea to change them often and never use easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you want to give a person one-time-only access, you can set a code and then delete it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a concern for electronic devices linked to your smart home. Reduce the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords frequently. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can come up due to a software bug, or battery failure. However, vital local features like a PIN code still work even if your WiFi is not available, but you might lose access to the smartphone app. Models with backup keyed systems can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still function during power failures?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when you lose power as it gets power from batteries, not your home’s electricity. You may still use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, according to what your system uses.

Why pick Vivint smart locks for your Morgantown home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other equipment within your smart home ecosystem. You can make a rule to turn the lights on whenever the door is opened, or establish a full-fledged scene with many automations. For instance, you can arm your system, turn lights off, fasten your door, and even change your thermostat at the same time when you call it a day. And you know what else? 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 track smart lock codes. You can also create as many as 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Morgantown smart home

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and integrating custom actions that engage your smart locks and other equipment all at once? It’s possible with Vivint. Call (304) 903-6090 to explore our systems and get help designing your own Morgantown smart home.