Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of eliminating house keys and moving to a modern smart locking system, but you’re concerned about safety. Are keypad door locks truly safer than their time-honored counterparts? The quick answer is yes. But before adding one to your Tampa smart home, there are several things you should know.

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

The inherent problem with traditional locks is having to rely on a key. Keys are often lost and simple to copy, which can be a real problem if they fall to the wrong person. Besides, older door locks are more vulnerable to bumping, forcing, and picking. Modern smart locks remove the need for a key entirely. The ones that have a backup keyed lock frequently use a different style of cylinder, making them resistant to common break-in methods.

Are there any risks with keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code entry: Codes need to be kept secure. It’s also a good idea to change them periodically and avoid predictable codes like “1234.” If you need to give someone single-time access, you can set a code and then eliminate it once it’s no longer needed.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a risk to electronic devices linked to your smart home. Offset the risk by regularly updating apps, firmware, and passwords. Incorporate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can come up due to a WiFi disconnection. However, core local features like a PIN code still work if your WiFi is offline, but you could lose app functionality. Smart options with backup keyed systems can provide you with 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 is powered by batteries, not your home electricity. You may still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, depending on what your system supports.

Why select Vivint smart locks for your Tampa home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other devices in your smart home. You can make a rule to turn the lights on automatically when the door is opened, or establish a full-fledged scene with many automations. For instance, you might arm your system, turn lights off, secure your door, and even change your thermostat all at once when you head to bed. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home devices are totally accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

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

Vivint is the key to your Tampa smart home

Would you enjoy locking or unlocking your door remotely and designing custom actions that operate your smart locks and other components all at once? It’s possible with Vivint. Place a call to (813) 590-1845 to find out more about our systems and let us help you design your own Tampa smart home.