Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of eliminating traditional house keys and upgrading to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks actually safer than their classic counterparts? The quick answer is yes. But before integrating one into your York smart home, there are several things you should know.

Why smart locks are the best option for your York home

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are often misplaced and simple to copy, which can be a real problem if they end up with the wrong person. On top of that, older locks are more vulnerable to picking, bumping, and forcing. 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, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code use: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also wise to update them often and never use predictable codes like “1234.” If you have to give somebody single-time access, you can set a code and then delete it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a hazard for electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by updating passwords, apps, and firmware frequently. Use two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical problems: A battery failure, WiFi disconnection, or software bug can lead to issues. Generally speaking, core local features like a PIN code still work if your WiFi is not available, but you could lose app functionality. Models with backup keyed locks can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still function during an outage 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 offers.

Why choose Vivint smart locks for your York home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other equipment in your smart home. You can make a rule to switch the lights on automatically whenever the door is unlocked, or configure a whole-home scene with many automations. For example, you can secure your door, arm your system, turn off lights, and even adjust your thermostat at the same time when you go to bed. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home equipment is completely accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

You’ll always get insights into who’s exiting and entering as Vivint systems monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also assign as many as 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your York home security

Would you like to unlock or lock your door remotely and establish custom actions that operate your smart locks and other devices at the same time? It’s possible with Vivint. Call (717) 973-7710 to learn more about our systems and get help designing your own York smart home.