Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of eliminating house keys and switching to a modern smart lock, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks truly safer than their classic counterparts? The quick response is yes. But before integrating one into your College Station smart home, there are several things you should consider.

Why smart locks are the right option for your College Station home

The main issue with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are often misplaced and simple to copy, which leads to disaster if they fall into the wrong hands. On top of that, older door locks are simpler to bump, pick, and force. Modern smart locks do away with keys entirely. The models that have a backup keyed lock typically use a different kind of cylinder, so they can’t be bypassed by traditional methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes need to be kept secure. It’s also smart to update them often and never use predictable codes like “1234.” If you need to give someone single-time access, you can set a code and then remove it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: System breaches are always a hazard for electronic devices connected to your smart home. Offset the risk by frequently updating passwords, apps, and firmware. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical problems: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can create issues. Generally speaking, vital local features like a PIN code still work even if your WiFi is down, but you might lose smartphone app functionality. Models with backup keyed locks can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still work during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate during an outage as it runs on battery power, not your home’s electricity. You can still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, depending on what your system uses.

Why select Vivint smart locks for your College Station home?

Vivint’s smart locks work smoothly with other devices within your smart home ecosystem. You can set a rule to turn the lights on automatically when the door is opened, or establish a full-fledged scene with multiple automations. To illustrate, you can turn lights off, fasten your door, arm your system, and even lower your thermostat at the same time when you go to bed. And you know the best part? Your locks and all your smart home equipment is totally accessible from your phone in 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 set as many as 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your College Station home security

Would you like to lock or unlock your door remotely and establish custom actions that operate your smart locks and other devices simultaneously? It’s possible with Vivint. Place a call to (979) 356-2138 to find out more about our systems and get help designing your own College Station smart home.