Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of getting rid of your old house keys and upgrading to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a concern. Are keypad door locks actually safer than the old-school locks they’re replacing? The quick reply is yes. But before installing one with your Olympia smart home, there are several things you should consider.

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

The main issue with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are often misplaced and easy 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, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks do away with keys entirely. The models that provide a backup keyed system typically use a different kind of cylinder, so they can’t be circumvented by traditional methods.

Are there any risks with keypad door locks?

While they’re typically safer than standard locking systems, keypad door locks do have some risks, including the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes need to be kept confidential. It’s also wise to change them periodically and avoid predictable codes like “1234.” If you have to give someone single-time access, you can set a code and then eliminate it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a risk to electronic devices linked to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords often. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical glitches: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can lead to problems. However, vital local features like keypad entry still work even if your WiFi is not available, but you could lose smartphone app functionality. Models with backup keyed locks can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still function during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still work when power is lost as it gets power from batteries, not your home’s electricity. You can still use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, according to what your system offers.

Why choose Vivint smart locks for your Olympia home?

Vivint’s smart locks work reliably with other equipment within your smart home environment. You can make a rule to turn the lights on any time the door is opened, or configure a full-fledged scene with several automations. For instance, you might arm your system, dim lighting, fasten your door, and even change your thermostat all at once when you head to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home components are totally accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s entering and exiting as Vivint systems track smart lock codes. You can also assign as many as 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Olympia smart home security

Would you like to lock and unlock your door remotely and integrate custom actions that engage your smart locks and other components at the same time? You can do it with Vivint. Call (360) 996-1195 to explore our systems and start designing your own Olympia smart home.