In the United States, there are well over 1 million burglaries each year. You cannot afford to ignore the importance of home and business security.

One way of better protecting your home or business is to use a keypad lock. But what is a keypad lock, and how does it work? And how can a keypad lock better protect you from theft?

Our locksmith experts are here to answer all these questions and more!

What is a Keypad Lock?

A keypad lock is an electronic door lock that you can open with a combination code entered via the keypad. Keypad locks can be individual units that contain all necessary parts to function.

They can also be a part of a larger security system. In that case, they will draw their power from elsewhere in the building. They will also be able to communicate with the larger system.

The keypad used for a keypad lock can vary. Some have a few buttons, while others have a keypad that looks like what you’d find on a telephone. Some have an enter button, and others will open after the code is correctly entered.

Because the code is essential to entry, it’s a good practice to regularly change your code. You don’t want a disgruntled former employee to gain access to your business. You don’t want a disgruntled ex-boyfriend or ex-girlfriend to have access to your home.

Keypad locks need electricity to function. Individual locks usually have batteries that need to be regularly changed. Larger security systems will draw power from your building’s security system and will need a backup power source.

Note that the lock does not become disabled when the power goes out. Instead, without power, you have no way of opening the keypad lock.

How Does a Keypad Lock Work?

Keypad locks function like most door locks. A bolt or a latch prevents the door from being opened. Once unlocked, that block is removed.

What differs is how this block gets removed. Keypad locks use an actuator, which connects the block to a motor located inside the door frame. This motor will only open the block when it gets activated by an electrical impulse.

Once you enter the correct code on a keypad lock, an electrical impulse triggers the block’s removal. That is why electricity is required for it to function: no electricity means no way to trigger the impulse and remove the block.

What are the Benefits of a Keypad Lock?

There are several surprising benefits to using a keypad lock for your home or business. For example, most keypad locks are pick-proof and bump-proof: two common lockpicking methods. 

Roughly 9% of small businesses are subject to burglary or theft each year. Consider a keypad lock to protect your business from theft.

Additionally, there’s the convenience factor: you no longer have to worry about remembering where you left your keys. Simply use a PIN that you’ll remember and you can get immediate access to your home or business. This is especially beneficial if you have kids that need to access your home after school and before you get out of work.

Finally, keypad locks are more durable. Normal locks are subjected to frequent repetitive movements that can wear down the lock over time. This will never be an issue with a keypad lock.

Ready to Get a Keypad Lock?

Are you ready to install a keypad lock at your home or business? Kenny’s Lock can help! Contact us today to get a quote and get started on protecting your home or business.