Door locks are an integral part of residential security systems, but they can develop problems from time to time, compromising the security of homeowners and their families.
The best way to deal with door lock problems is to get them checked and repaired as soon as they crop up. Failing to take corrective action when you have problematic door locks will leave your home exposed to danger.
With that said, here are some common door lock trouble signs you shouldn't ignore.
Jammed door lock
Is your door lock difficult to open? A normally functioning door lock is designed to stop intruders and not you from accessing your home. If yours is a little bit slow to unlock when you turn the key inside it, this is an indication it may be jammed.
Residential door locks can get jammed due to a variety of factors. These include but are not limited to the ones highlighted below:
The proper repair of a jammed door lock requires a correct diagnosis of the problem. The underlying cause of the problem will prescribe the most effective way to fix a door that is jammed.
Key won't go into the door lock
If you're having difficulty inserting the key into the lock, confirm that you're using the right key. If so, ask yourself if your lock may be frozen.
During the winter season, the freezing temperatures can cause ice to form within the locking mechanism, making it difficult for a key to go into the lock. In such situations, you can unfreeze your locks (melt the ice) by applying some hand sanitiser on your key and then inserting it into the lock. The alcohol in the hand sanitiser will effectively melt the ice.
Alternatively, you can heat your key with a lighter to help make the ice thaw as you put the key in the lock.
Key won't turn in the lock
When you insert the right key into the door lock and turn it, the door should open instantly. If the key goes into the lock without problems but fails to turn, this is an indication that the lock needs to be repaired.
This problem can occur due to various reasons. These include poor lubrication, dirt buildup and damaged interior lock parts. If you experience this problem, it's recommended you let an experienced locksmith check your door lock.
You shouldn't try to force the key to turn as you'll risk breaking it in the lock.
No matter what problem you may be experiencing with your residential locks, a fully trained locksmith can fix the problem and get the locks back on track. Bringing them in early will help to deal with the problem before it leads to some serious consequences.
To learn more about these situations, contact a local locksmith.
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