Are keypad door locks safe?

You like the idea of eliminating house keys and switching to a modern smart lock, but you’re worried about safety. Are keypad door locks really safer than the old locks they’re replacing? The easy answer is yes. But before adding one to your Des Moines smart home, there are a few things you should know.

Why upgrading to a smart lock makes sense for your Des Moines home

The main issue with traditional locks is the requirement of a key. Keys are often misplaced and simple to copy, which leads to disaster if they fall to the wrong person. In addition, older locks are simpler to pick, bump, and force. Modern smart locks do away with keys entirely. The ones that have a backup keyed system typically use a different kind of cylinder, making them resistant to established break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code usage: Codes must be kept confidential. It’s also wise to update them regularly and avoid easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you want to give a person one-time-only access, you can create a code and then eliminate it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a risk to electronic devices bridged to your smart home. Reduce the risk by regularly updating firmware, apps, and passwords. Integrate two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical problems: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can cause problems. As a general rule, essential local features like the keypad still work even if your WiFi is not available, but you might lose smartphone app functionality. Smart locks with backup keyed systems can offer another way in.

Do smart locks still work during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still function during an outage as it runs on battery power, not your wired electricity. You can still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or biometric scanner, according to what your system supports.

Why pick Vivint smart locks for your Des Moines home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work smoothly with other devices in your smart home. You can set a rule to switch the lights on whenever the door is opened, or establish a complete scene with many automations. To illustrate, you can dim lighting, lock your door, arm your system, and even adjust your thermostat all at once when you head to bed. And you know what else? Your locks and all your smart home equipment is totally accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always be aware of who’s coming and going as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also set as many as 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Des Moines home security

Would you enjoy unlocking or locking your door remotely and designing custom actions that activate your smart locks and other components at the same time? You can do it with Vivint. Place a call to (515) 972-5232 to explore our systems and start designing your own Des Moines smart home.