Door lock issues usually crop up at the most inconvenient times and most commonly when you’re in a hurry to either get out or in through the door. When this happens, you’ll want to know whether you can fix the problem easily yourself or whether it’s better to call your local locksmith in Melbourne. Here are just some of the issues that you might encounter with your door locks.
1. Loose Doorknob or Handle
A loose handle or doorknob is probably the easiest fix for anyone. All you have to do is just hold the knob or handle and use a screwdriver to tighten the screws that hold it into position on either side.
2. Your Key Won’t Turn In The Lock
If you put your key in the lock and it just won’t turn, there are likely to be several reasons for the malfunction. There could be dirt lodged in the lock, or either your lock or your key is worn. It could also mean that your door is not aligned correctly. You might find this problem if there’s a sudden change in temperature causing expansion or contraction of the door or frame.
When you come across this problem, you’ll first want to use a lubricant or some compressed air to remove any dirt from the lock. Then check to see if the door is aligned correctly and readjust the hinges if it’s not. Finally, a damaged or worn key or lock will need to be replaced by a mobile locksmith.
3. The Door Lock Is Jamming
If your door lock jams, it probably means that there’s dirt or dust in the lock. You can easily fix this with some WD40 to lubricate the parts or compressed air to blast out the debris. But, if your lock is rusted, it’s best just to get it replaced.
4. Your Door Won’t Latch Easily
This is normally caused by a door misalignment. What you’ll have to do is grab a screwdriver and adjust the door hinges so that the door sits properly in alignment with the latch.
5. Worn Out Or Broken Locks
Like all mechanical things, door locks aren’t going to last forever, so if you find that your lock is worn out or broken, it’s time to get your locks replaced by a professional.
6. Your Key Broke In The Lock
If your key has broken in the lock, it’s probably worn out. In this situation, you’ll want to call a professional locksmith who will be able to remove the broken key and cut a new one for you. The locksmith might also have to rekey locks if you need an entirely new key.
7. The Door Lock Cylinder Turns When You Try To Unlock The Door
This could just be the case of a loose screw holding the cylinder in place or it might be that your lock is broken. In this instance, it might be best to call a locksmith and get your locks repaired or replaced.
8. Electronic Lock Malfunction
If you have electronic locks on your door and they’re not working, you will have to call a locksmith to diagnose the problem with specialist equipment so it can be fixed.
Tips For Preventing Lock Issues
To keep your locks functioning correctly, they do require regular maintenance such as:
- Regularly lubricating the lock
- Cleaning the lock with some compressed air periodically
- Checking that the door is aligned correctly especially when coming from winter to summer or vice versa.
- Booking a regular lock maintenance call with your local locksmith
When lock issues arise, the first thing you want to do is work out whether it’s an easy fix, like tightening the screws on a loose handle, or whether it’s best to call a professional locksmith to come and fix the problem for you.
Remember that a locksmith has all the necessary tools, equipment and experience to fix your lock issues quickly and efficiently without causing any further damage. It might just be a case of repairing damaged locks, cutting a new key or replacing locks that have passed their use-by date. At Amalgamated Locksmiths, our mobile technicians are always ready to come and fix your lock issues whenever you call.