Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of eliminating house keys and switching to a modern smart locking system, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks truly safer than their old-school counterparts? The quick answer is yes. But before installing one with your Mesa smart home, there are a few things you should know.

Why switching to a smart lock makes sense for your Mesa 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 end up with the wrong person. On top of that, older door locks are easier to bump, pick, and force. Modern smart locks do away with keys entirely. The models that offer a backup keyed lock typically use a more secure style of cylinder, making them resistant to common break-in methods.

Are there any risks with keypad door locks?

Even though they’re generally safer than older locking systems, keypad door locks do have some risks, like the following:

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes have to be kept confidential. It’s also a good idea to update them often and steer clear of predictable codes like “1234.” If you want to give someone one-time access, you can create a code and then delete it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a risk to electronic devices linked to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by updating apps, firmware, and passwords frequently. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical problems: Issues can arise due to a WiFi disconnection. As a general rule, vital local features like keypad entry still work if your WiFi is offline, but you might lose app functionality. Smart options with backup keyed systems can provide you with another way in.

Do smart locks still work during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when you lose power as it is powered by batteries, not your wired electricity. You may still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, according to what your system uses.

Why Vivint smart locks are a smart choice for your home

Vivint’s smart locks work smoothly with other equipment within your smart home ecosystem. You can turn the lights on whenever the door is opened, or establish a whole-home scene with several automations. For instance, you can fasten your door, arm your system, turn off lights, and even lower your thermostat all at once when you call it a day. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home components are fully accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always be aware of who’s coming and going as Vivint systems track smart lock codes. You can also create as many as 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Mesa smart home security

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and establishing custom actions that engage your smart locks and other devices all at once? You can do it with Vivint. Call (480) 568-6350 to find out more about our systems and let us help you design your own Mesa smart home.