Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of ditching traditional house keys and switching to a modern smart locking system, but you have concerns about safety. Are keypad door locks actually safer than the keyed locks they’re replacing? The quick reply is yes. But before integrating one into your Columbia smart home, there are several things you should think about.

Why upgrading to a smart lock makes sense for your Columbia home

The main issue with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are frequently misplaced and simple to copy, which leads to disaster if they fall to the wrong person. In addition, older door locks are easier to bump, pick, and force. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key completely. The ones that have a backup keyed system frequently use a more secure style of cylinder, making them resistant to common break-in methods.

What are the risks of keypad door locks?

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

• Unauthorized code use: Codes need to be kept secure. It’s also smart to update them often and steer clear of easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you want 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 bridged to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords often. Use two-factor identification whenever possible.
  
  
• Technical issues: Issues can pop up due to a WiFi disconnection. As a general rule, core local features like the keypad still work even if your WiFi is offline, but you may lose access to the smartphone app. Smart locks with backup keyed systems can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still function during power outages?

Yes, your smart lock should still operate when power is lost as it is powered by batteries, not your wired electricity. You’ll still be able to use the keypad, fingerprint scanner, or Bluetooth, depending on what your system uses.

Why choose Vivint smart locks for your Columbia home?

Vivint’s Kwikset smart locks work reliably with other components within your smart home ecosystem. You can turn the lights on automatically when the door is opened, or create a complete scene with multiple automations. To illustrate, you might turn lights off, secure your door, arm your system, and even change your thermostat simultaneously when you head to bed. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home equipment is completely 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 assign as many as 50 distinct access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Columbia smart home

Would you like to lock or unlock your door remotely and integrate custom actions that operate your smart locks and other components simultaneously? You can do it with Vivint. Contact (803) 921-0946 to explore our systems and let us help you design your own Columbia smart home.