Are keypad door locks safe?

You are drawn to the idea of ditching traditional house keys and switching to a modern smart locking system, but you’re worried about safety. Are keypad door locks truly safer than the keyed locks they replace? The simple response is yes. But before integrating one into your Richmond smart home, there are a few things you should know.

Why smart locks are a better choice for your Richmond home

The biggest downside of traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and simple to copy, which leads to disaster if they get into the wrong hands. Besides, older door locks are simpler to bump, pick, and force. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key entirely. The ones that offer a backup keyed system typically use a more secure kind of cylinder, making them resistant to common break-in methods.

Are there any concerns with keypad door locks?

Although generally safer than older locking systems, keypad door locks do carry some risks, including the following:

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes have to be kept secure. It’s also wise to update them periodically and avoid predictable codes like “1234.” If you want to give somebody one-time-only access, you can set a code and then delete it once it’s been used.
  
  
• Hacking: Network breaches are always a risk to electronic devices linked to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by regularly updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Incorporate two-factor identification if possible.
  
  
• Technical glitches: Issues can pop up due to a battery failure, software bug, or WiFi disconnection. As a general rule, vital local features like a PIN code still work even if your WiFi is offline, but you may lose app functionality. Smart options with backup keyed systems can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during power failures?

Yes, your smart lock should still work when power is lost as it gets power from 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 choose Vivint smart locks for your Richmond home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work reliably with other devices within your smart home environment. You can switch the lights on automatically any time the door is opened, or configure a complete scene with several automations. To illustrate, you can turn lights off, fasten your door, arm your system, and even change your thermostat simultaneously when you call it a day. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home equipment is fully accessible from the convenience of the Vivint app.

You’ll always know who’s coming and going as Vivint systems monitor the use of smart lock codes. You can also create up to 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Richmond smart home security

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and designing custom actions that engage your smart locks and other components all at once? It’s possible with Vivint. Call (804) 534-2782 to learn more about our systems and start designing your own Richmond smart home.