Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of ditching traditional house keys and moving to a modern smart lock, but you have concerns about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than the old-school locks they replace? The easy answer is yes. But before integrating one into your Eau Claire smart home, there are a few things you should think about.

Why upgrading to a smart lock makes sense for your Eau Claire home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are often misplaced and simple to copy, which spells trouble if they fall into the wrong hands. In addition, older door locks are more vulnerable to bumping, picking, and forcing. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key entirely. The ones that have a backup keyed lock frequently use a different kind of cylinder, making them resistant to common break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code use: Codes must be kept secure. It’s also wise to change them periodically and steer clear of obvious codes like “1234.” If you have to give someone one-time-only access, you can configure a code and then remove it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a hazard for electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by frequently updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical glitches: A software bug, battery failure, or WiFi disconnection can lead to issues. However, essential local features like the keypad still work even if your WiFi is not available, but you may lose app functionality. Smart locks with backup keyed systems can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still function during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still function during a blackout as it gets power from batteries, not your home electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, according to what your system offers.

Why select Vivint smart locks for your Eau Claire 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 any time the door is opened, or create a whole-home scene with many automations. For example, you can turn lights off, fasten your door, arm your system, and even change your thermostat at the same time when you head to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home components are fully accessible in the palm of your hand with the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s coming and going as Vivint systems track smart lock codes. You can also set up to 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Eau Claire smart home security

Would you like to lock or unlock your door remotely and integrate custom actions that engage your smart locks and other devices all at once? You can do it with Vivint. Contact (715) 419-6703 to find out more about our systems and let us help you design your own Eau Claire smart home.