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 concern. Are keypad door locks really safer than their time-honored counterparts? The easy response is yes. But before adding one to your Los Angeles smart home, there are several things you should think about.

Why upgrading to a smart lock makes sense for your Los Angeles home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and simple to copy, which leads to disaster if they end up with the wrong person. On top of that, older locks are more vulnerable to bumping, picking, and forcing. Modern smart locks do away with keys altogether. The options that have a backup keyed system frequently use a different style of cylinder, so they can’t be circumvented by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes need to be kept secure. It’s also smart to change them regularly and avoid predictable codes like “1234.” If you want to give someone one-time access, you can create a code and then remove it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a risk to electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Offset the risk by regularly updating passwords, apps, and firmware. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical issues: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can create issues. Generally speaking, core local features like a PIN code still work even if your WiFi is down, but you might lose smartphone app functionality. Smart options with backup keyed locks can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still work when your power goes out as it is powered by batteries, not your home’s electricity. You may still use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, depending on what your system supports.

Why Vivint smart locks are a smart choice for your home

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work reliably with other devices in your smart home. You can make a rule to turn the lights on automatically when the door is opened, or establish a whole-home scene with many automations. To illustrate, you can fasten your door, arm your system, turn lights off, and even adjust your thermostat all at once when you head to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home equipment is fully accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

You’ll always be aware of who’s exiting and entering as Vivint systems monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also set up to 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Los Angeles home security

Would you like to lock and unlock your door remotely and incorporate custom actions that engage your smart locks and other components at the same time? It’s doable with Vivint. Contact (310) 861-9194 to explore our systems and get help designing your own Los Angeles smart home.