Locks are an integral part of any home security system, but they are often neglected when it comes to regular repairs and maintenance. Most people don’t pay attention to the door locks unless they break or get stuck repeatedly. These fixtures, especially those exposed to environmental elements like humidity, rain and dust, develop mineral rust, grime and even mould.
Thus, they need regular cleaning and lubrication to maintain their functionality and long shelf life. You can hire a
locksmith in Australia to place new locks, rekey or change old locks, repair broken fixtures and lubricate them, as per requirement.
However, for regular maintenance of the door locks in your home, here are the best ways to lubricate them like a pro.
Simple & Instant Lubrication
Often you lack the time or energy to manage an extensive lubrication process of door locks. You can follow these steps to fix a jammed lock within a few minutes during such instances. However, bear in mind that this method of lubricating locks is a quick fix and not a long-term solution.
- Blow dust and debris from the lock using a device like a leaf blower, blow dryer etc. Alternatively, you can use a vacuum cleaner & the nozzle tool to suck physical contaminants.
- Spray a quality cleaning solution in the keyhole with a narrow nozzle expeller. Leave the product to dwell and work for 10 minutes.
- Next, spray the keyhole with a dry lubricant and insert the key to spread the product.
- Check if the lock is working smoothly.
Spray the lock with WD-40 solution to loosen contaminants or rust jamming the lock for even a speedier fix. However, don’t use this hack as a permanent solution or apply the product every time the door locks get stuck. Repeated application of WD-40 will make the locks sticky and gummy due to product accumulation.
Deep & Prolonged Lubrication
Applying lubricant through the keyhole is a quick fix, but you can deep clean the locks and keep them working smoothly for months using the following method.
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- Dismantle the lock with a screwdriver. Remove the screws holding the faceplate, pull the handle/knob from the spindle, and open the remaining bolts.
- Clean each piece with a microfiber cloth and if the parts are extremely dirty, use a mild cleaner as abrasive, and strong-chemical cleaners damage the locks.
- Use Graphite, Teflon, or a dry oil lubricant to slather the components. Pay extra attention to the keyhole and lock turn during lubrication.
- Assemble the lock, ensuring to screw each component correctly and tightly.
Cleaning & Greasing Padlocks
Padlocks are commonly used for
securing the house doors, and with time they become rusty and stuck. If you have padlocks for the entrance, storeroom, basement or other doors in your house, here is how you can clean and grease them.
- Soak the locks in a solution of water, vinegar and dishwashing liquid. Scrub the tool with a toothbrush or a narrow brush, then wash with water.
- Shake the access water and wipe with a microfiber cloth before leaving the locks in sunlight to dry.
- Blow the keyhole with a dryer to check if any moisture is remaining and to dry the equipment completely.
- Spray the keyhole with a dry lubricant and insert the key to move it around. Turn the key multiple times to ensure the locks function with any hitch.
Things To Know About Cleaning & Lubricating Locks
Contrary to popular belief, door locks don’t need frequent lubrication or cleaning, as the fixtures have a protective coating that repels dust, dirt,
dust mites, rust and moisture. Additionally, if you hire professional lock repairing & maintaining service from an experienced locksmith every year, you don’t need to open the fixtures. Here are some other things you must know about cleaning and lubricating locks.
- Good locksmiths in Australia avoid petroleum-based lubricants as they diminish lock finish.
- Graphite, Teflon and other dry oil-based lubricants are the best for making locks function smoothly and increase their longevity.
- Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before cleaning or greasing the locks,
- Avoid opening or tinkering with new locks. Take the assistance of professional locksmiths in Australia for changing, rekeying, repairing or maintaining them.
- Too much cleaning or application of WD-40 does more harm than good. Therefore, only do these activities occasionally.
- When your locks are old and need maintenance frequently, get them changed by professionals.
The Bottom Line
Door locks are the first line of defence of your house against intruders, thieves and trespassers. Therefore, keeping these fixtures in top condition is crucial to
having a safe and secure home. Hiring a professional locksmith in Australia is a wise and practical solution for cleaning and lubricating door locks in your house. However, follow the instructions to do the activities yourself and get optimum results.
