Categories

Smart locks are a safe option for most homes, and features like remote access and programmable schedules can make them more secure than traditional locks. There are still concerns about safety, but they typically have more to do with the way people use smart locks than with the components themselves. 

Read on to explore smart lock safety and see why these devices are a great fit for your Chico home.

What Are The Safety Risks Of Smart Locks?

There are risks associated with smart locks, but they largely depend on your personal safety habits. Here are a couple of the top concerns:

• Weak codes: Too obvious passcodes are the foremost concern when installing smart locks. As you can imagine, a code of ‘1234’ isn’t secure. You should also avoid birthdays or anniversaries and other easy-to-guess combinations. 
  
  
• Smart home hacking: If someone hacks into your wireless network, they can proceed to unlock the door. Update your passcodes, employ two-factor authentication, and always run manufacturer-issued firmware and software updates. 
  
  
• Code smudging: Entering the same numbers repeatedly can leave smudges that point to your code. Change your passcode and wipe down the keypad every so often.  

Internet outages and blackouts may also affect your smart lock. Most will keep working at the door as they run on batteries, although you might not be able to control them remotely. Many come with backup keyed systems, which gives you another way inside. 

Pro tip: Smart locks with backup keyed locks are usually resistant to bumping, a tried-and-true break-in method used on conventional locks.

Why Smart Locks Are Better For Your Chico Home Than Conventional Keyed Entries

It’s not challenging to understand the danger of keeping a house key under your door mat, in your mailbox, or within a fake stone. Anyone who comes across it will have easy access to your house and everything inside. Even when handing a key to friends and family you trust, it can end up with the wrong person and be easily copied at the closest hardware store. 

Luckily, the days of depending on house keys are behind us. Smart door locks let you go keyless and come with a variety of modern features to boost your security. 

What Features Make Smart Locks Safer Than Standard Locks?

Smart locks are an integral part of today’s advanced security systems. They include features that make them a more secure choice than regular locks. Here are a few:

• Auto locking: You can create a rule for your door to lock itself after a certain time period. No more worrying about leaving your door unlocked.
• Scheduling: You can program smart locks to lock at whatever time you want and include them in whole-home routines. For example, you might have your system arm, lights dim, and door lock simultaneously when you go to bed
• App-based control: You can quickly check your smart lock's status in the home security app. You may even unlock or lock your door from anywhere.
• Notifications: You’ll receive alerts on your smartphone app any time a person opens or closes the lock, letting you know who’s entering and exiting.
  

On top of that, anyone who needs access to your home can have their own code, so you’re not using the same one. You can also grant and revoke access whenever you like. 

Open The Door To Smarter Home Security With Secure24 Alarm Systems

Smart locks are an excellent addition to your new security system in Chico. Contact the ADT-authorized dealers at Secure24 Alarm Systems to design your home’s protection today. Call (530) 205-3977 today and take advantage of our same-day and next-day installation in most areas.