Are keypad door locks safe?

You love the idea of eliminating house keys and upgrading to a modern smart locking system, but safety is still a worry. Are keypad door locks truly safer than the old-school locks they’re replacing? The simple reply is yes. But before integrating one into your Napa smart home, there are several things you should know.

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

The inherent problem with traditional locks is the need for a key. Keys are frequently lost and easy to copy, which spells trouble if they end up with the wrong person. On top of that, older locks are easier to pick, bump, and force. Modern smart locks eliminate the need for a key altogether. The options that have a backup keyed system frequently use a different style of cylinder, so they can’t be circumvented 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, including the following:

• Unauthorized code use: Codes have to be kept confidential. It’s also smart to change them regularly and avoid easy-to-guess codes like “1234.” If you want to give a person one-time access, you can configure a code and then eliminate it once it’s served its purpose.
  
  
• Hacking: Cyber intrusions are always a concern for electronic devices linked to your smart home. Mitigate the risk by updating firmware, apps, and passwords often. Integrate two-factor identification whenever you can.
  
  
• Technical problems: A WiFi disconnection, software bug, or battery failure can lead to problems. Generally speaking, vital local features like a PIN code still work if your WiFi is offline, but you could lose app functionality. Smart locks with backup keyed systems can give you another way in.

Do smart locks still operate during a power outage?

Yes, your smart lock should still work during an outage as it is powered by batteries, not your home’s electricity. You may still use the keypad, Bluetooth, or fingerprint scanner, based on what your system offers.

Why pick Vivint smart locks for your Napa home?

Vivint’s smart locks work reliably with other equipment within your smart home ecosystem. You can turn the lights on automatically any time the door is opened, or create a complete scene with many automations. For instance, you might dim lighting, secure your door, arm your system, and even adjust your thermostat at the same time when you head to bed. The best part is that your locks and all your smart home components are completely accessible from your phone in the Vivint app.

You’ll always know who’s exiting and entering as Vivint systems keep track of smart lock codes. You can also assign up to 50 unique access codes.

Vivint is the key to your Napa smart home security

Would you like to lock or unlock your door remotely and establish custom actions that engage your smart locks and other equipment at the same time? It’s doable with Vivint. Call (707) 895-5704 to explore our systems and get help designing your own Napa smart home.