If you’ve ever been locked out of your home, you know the frustration of trying to find a way inside. If you have a deadbolt lock and the key doesn’t work, you may think your only option is to call a locksmith. But there is another way. This article will show you how to unfreeze a deadbolt lock. Keep reading to learn more.
What Causes a Deadbolt Lock to Freeze?
There are a few things that can cause a deadbolt lock to freeze. One of the most common is the weather. Cold weather can cause the metal in the lock to contract, making it difficult to turn the key. Another common cause is dirt and debris. If the keyhole is clogged, it can prevent the key from turning.
Additionally, if the bolt is not properly lubricated, it can also cause the lock to freeze. The other main cause of a frozen deadbolt is worn and tear. Over time, the parts in the lock can become worn down, making it harder to turn the key. Another thing to remember is that deadbolt locks are designed to be more secure than other types of locks.
This means they are often harder to turn, even when they are not frozen. Finally, if you’ve recently had a locksmith change the locks, they may not have installed the deadbolt correctly. This can also cause the lock to freeze.
Some Effective Ways How to Unfreeze a Deadbolt Lock:
1. Use a Hairdryer
The first thing you’ll want to try is using a hairdryer. This can help to thaw out the metal and make it easier to turn the key. First, plug in the hairdryer and set it to the highest setting. Then, hold it up to the keyhole and wait a few minutes. Once the metal is warm, try turning the key again. It may take a few tries, but this method often works. If you don’t have a hairdryer, you can also try using a can of compressed air.
2. Use a Heat Gun
If you have a heat gun, you can also use this to thaw out the lock. This is a more extreme measure, so be careful not to overdo it and damage the lock. First, hold the heat gun about six inches from the lock and move it around, careful not to focus on any one spot for too long. You should see the ice start to melt away. Once the ice is melted, try operating the lock again. If it still doesn’t work, apply a little more heat and try again.
3. Use a Lighter
If you have a lighter, you can also use this to heat up the keyhole. This will help to unfreeze the deadbolt lock. Just be careful not to burn yourself or the lock. Instead, put the flame of the lighter close to the keyhole and wait for a few seconds. You should then be able to insert the key and turn the lock. If the key doesn’t turn, you may need to repeat this process a few times.
4. Use Wd-40
If you have WD-40 or another type of lubricant, you can spray this into the keyhole. This will help to lubricate the mechanism and hopefully get it working again. You may need to use a toothpick or other small tool to help work the lubricant into the keyhole. First, spray a small amount of lubricant into the keyhole. Next, use a toothpick or other small tool to work the lubricant into the keyhole. Finally, try your key again to see if it will turn. If not, you may need to repeat this process a few times. If your key still does not turn, then you may need to try another method.
5. Use soap
If you have soap, you can also try this method. This will only work, however, if the lock is truly frozen and not just jammed. Get a bar of soap and rub it along the keyway. Then, insert your key and turn. The soap will help to lubricate the lock and allow the key to turning. Avoid using too much soap, as this can cause the lock to become sticky.
6. Use Boiling Water
Boiling water is another method that can be used to unfreeze a deadbolt lock. All you need to do is heat up a pot of water and pour it over the frozen lock. Be careful not to pour too much at once as you don’t want to damage the lock. First, try pouring a little bit and seeing if that does the trick. If not, then you can try pouring a little more. Ensure you don’t pour too much, as that could damage the lock. If you don’t have a pot, you can also try using a kettle.
7. Use a Hammer
If you have a hammer, you can try this method. This involves hitting the frozen deadbolt with the hammer. This will help break up the ice causing the deadbolt to be frozen. Be sure to hit the deadbolt square on and not at an angle. You don’t want to damage the deadbolt or the door. First, try hitting the deadbolt with your hand. If that doesn’t work, use the back of the hammer. Please give it a few good whacks. You may need to put some force behind it. If the deadbolt is still frozen, try using a screwdriver. Place the screwdriver’s tip on the deadbolt and hit it with the hammer. This should help break up the ice.
8. Use an Ice Pick
If you have an ice pick, you can use this to break up the ice around the deadbolt. This will help to unfreeze the lock. To do this, first heat up the ice pick with a lighter. Then, use the ice pick to chip away at the ice around the deadbolt. Be careful not to damage the lock itself. You may need to do this a few times to break up the ice completely.
9. Use a Screwdriver
If you have a screwdriver, you can also use this to break up the ice around the deadbolt. This will help unfreeze it so you can turn it and open the door. First, attempt to use a small screwdriver to break up the ice. If this does not work, then try a larger one. You may need to apply some force in order to get the screwdriver to penetrate the ice. Once you have broken up the ice, try to turn the deadbolt with your screwdriver. If it is still frozen, you may need to apply more force. Be careful not to damage the deadbolt or the door.
10. Use a Nail File
If you have a nail file, you can use this to help unfreeze the deadbolt lock. This will work best if the lock is only slightly frozen. First, heat up the key with a lighter. Next, insert the nail file into the lock and turn it clockwise. Doing this will help heat up the lock and make it easier to turn.
11. Use a Wrench
If the deadbolt is still jammed, try using a wrench or pliers to turn the key. This may provide enough leverage to get the deadbolt to turn. Be careful not to damage the key in the process. First, try using a regular wrench. If that doesn’t work, try using a vise grip or other type of locking pliers. Avoid using slip-joint pliers, as they may damage the key.
12. Call a Locksmith
If you’ve tried all of the above methods and the deadbolt is still frozen, your last resort is to call a locksmith. They will have the tools and experience to finish the job quickly and efficiently. Be sure to call a reputable locksmith so that you don’t end up with damage to your door or lock.
Tips and Warnings on How to Unfreeze a Deadbolt Lock
Tips:
- Be sure to have a can of WD-40 or another penetrating oil on hand.
- Work the key back and forth in the lock as you spray the lubricant inside.
- You may need to use a small brush or a cotton swab to get the lubricant inside the lock cylinder.
- If the above doesn’t work, you can try heating the key with a hair dryer.
- Another method is to use a lock de-icer, which is a product specifically designed to melt ice in locks.
Warnings:
- Be careful not to overdo it with the WD-40 or other lubricant, as too much can worsen the work and worsen the problem.
- Don’t use a blow torch or any other type of open flame to try and thaw out the lock, as this could damage it beyond repair.
- Never pour any liquid directly into the lock, as this could also cause damage.
Conclusion
So there you have it! Everything you need to know on how to unfreeze a deadbolt lock. By following the above tips, you should be able to get your lock working again in no time. If you’re still having trouble, be sure to call a locksmith for assistance. They will have the tools and experience to finish the job quickly and efficiently.
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