Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of ditching your old house keys and switching to a modern smart lock, but you’re concerned about safety. Are keypad door locks truly safer than the old-school locks they replace? The simple response is yes. But before installing one with your Santa Fe smart home, there are several things you should think about.

Why smart locks are a better choice for your Santa Fe home

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and simple to copy, which spells trouble if they fall into the wrong hands. On top of that, older door locks are simpler to bump, pick, and force. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key altogether. The ones that provide a backup keyed system frequently use a more secure type of cylinder, making them resistant to traditional break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

Even though they’re generally safer than traditional locking systems, keypad door locks do come with some risks, such as the following:

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also a good idea to change them regularly and never use obvious codes like “1234.” If you need to give somebody one-time access, you can configure a code and then eliminate it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a hazard for electronic devices linked to your smart home. Reduce the risk by regularly updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Integrate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical glitches: Issues can come up due to a software bug, or battery failure. Generally speaking, vital local features like the keypad still work even when your WiFi is offline, but you may lose access to the smartphone app. Smart locks with backup keyed locks can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during power failures?

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

Why Vivint smart locks are a great fit for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work smoothly with other equipment in your smart home. You can switch the lights on any time the door is unlocked, or establish a whole-home scene with multiple automations. To illustrate, you can arm your system, dim lighting, fasten your door, and even lower your thermostat simultaneously when you head to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home components are totally accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s coming and going as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also assign as many as 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Santa Fe smart home

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and integrating custom actions that operate your smart locks and other components simultaneously? You can do it with Vivint. Contact (505) 605-2552 to explore our systems and start designing your own Santa Fe smart home.