
How To Get A Key Out Of A Lock – 7 Ways To Remove A Key Stuck In Lock
If you’ve ever been in a situation where you’ve had a key stuck in a lock, you know how frustrating it can be. The good news is that there are several ways to remove a key from a lock, and we’ll show you how to do it.
In this blog post, we’ll share with you how to get a key out of a lock. Keep reading for five easy solutions that will help get your key unstuck fast!
Why do keys get stuck in the door?
Before we get into how to remove a key from a lock, it’s essential to understand why keys get stuck in locks in the first place. There are a few reasons this can happen, but the most common reasons are:
- The key is inserted into the lock at an angle. When this happens, the teeth on the key can become caught on the lock pins, and this can cause the key to getting stuck.
- Over time, dirt and debris can build up on the keys, and this can also cause the key to becoming stuck in the lock.
- If the lock pins are damaged, they can become bent or broken.
- If the keyway is not aligned correctly, it can cause the key to get stuck.
- The key will probably get stuck if the locking mechanism is damaged or worn.
How to Remove A Key Stuck In Lock
Now that you know the most common reasons why the key gets stuck in the lock, it’s essential to understand which solution to use to remove the key from the lock. So, let’s see what we can do about it.
1. Spray Lubricant
If the problem is caused by dirt, rust, or grime build-up on the key or in the lock cylinder, using a lubricant can help. The best type of lubricant for this purpose is a silicon-based lubricant spray. Apply some lubricants to the key and insert it into the lock cylinder.
Try wiggling the key back and forth gently until it comes out. If you’ve successfully removed the key, be sure not to use it again and replace it with a new one as soon as possible.
2. Use a Pencil
A pencil is another common item that can be used to remove a key stuck in a lock. The lead in the pencil will act as a lubricant and help to loosen the key. You will need to insert the pencil into the keyway and turn it. This may take some patience and time, but eventually, the key should come loose. Be careful not to break the pencil lead off inside the lock.
3. Use a Graphite Powder
Compared to pencil, using a graphite powder is much neater. It is an ideal type of lubricant that can be used to remove a key from a lock. You only need to get a small container of graphite powder and sprinkle it over the entire key.
Once done, insert the key from the lock several times until the powder coats the entire tumbler. Doing this will help to loosen up any corrosion that might have caused your key to get stuck in the lock. Graphite powder is not hard to find as you can purchase it from any hardware store.
4. Push Plug Method
Some types of locks, like pin tumblers, have a plug inside them. The key is cut in such a way that it can push this plug up, which allows the pins to line up and the lock to open. If your key is stuck in such a lock, you might be able to remove it using this method.
The first thing you should do is push your key into the hole. Turn the key until the keyhole returns to its original position (when you initially inserted the key). This will allow the cylinder and pin to return to their original position.
After you confirm that the keyhole is in its original position, use the fingertip of your other hand to push firmly on the plug face, which is next to the key. By taking this step, you can avoid the plug moving as you attempt to remove the key. You can now twist the key and remove it from the lock.
5. Use Ice
This method is one of the oldest tricks in the book, and for a good reason—it works like a charm nearly every time. When a key is inserted into a lock, it pushes the pins up to the shear line. If you can insert a small amount of ice into the keyway and wait for it to melt, the metal will expand ever so slightly, and this may be enough to release the pressure on the pins and allow you to remove your key. To do this:
- Fill a small zip-top bag with water and seal it shut.
- Insert the ice into the keyway, as close to the base of the key as possible.
- Apply firm pressure to the key and wiggle it back and forth until it pops out.
6. Heat the key
If you can use ice to get a key out of a lock, the heat will also do the trick. The heat will cause the metal to expand and contract, which may be enough to dislodge the key. You can use a lighter or a match for this method.
Hold the flame close to the keyhole before trying to remove the key. Since the key will probably be hot, use a key extractor or nose pliers to remove it. You can also use a hair dryer in a hot setting. Hold it close to the keyhole and wait until you hear a click before trying to remove the key.
7. Seek Professional Help
When everything else fails, it may be time to call a professional. A locksmith will have the tools and expertise to remove a key from a lock without damaging it. However, if you have tried that method without extra knowledge, you may have already damaged your lock and will need to replace it.
If the key is broken off in the lock, a locksmith will be able to remove it and make a new key for you. This is the best option if you need to get the key out quickly and don’t want to risk breaking anything.
At CD Locksmith, we are always here to help. We have the tools and experience to quickly and efficiently remove keys from any type of lock. If you think you won’t be able to do the methods correctly in the first place, please do not attempt and call us right away. Calling a professional is always the best option to avoid further damage. We will be more than happy to help you out.
How Lock Type Changes Stuck Key Solutions
Different locks have different construction, which affects how a key can become stuck and the best way to remove it. This is because the type of lock will determine how the key is inserted and how it interacts with the locking mechanism. There are three main types of locks:
Padlocks
Padlocks are the simplest type of lock, and they work by having a shackle that goes through an eyelet on the lock’s body. The key is inserted into a hole and turns to open or close the shackle. There are a few things that make the key stuck in a padlock.
The first is if the key is inserted upside down, it can become stuck in the lock. The second is if the shackle becomes bent or damaged, it can also cause the key to get stuck. If you want to try removing the key yourself, you can use a pair of needle-nose pliers to grip the key and pull it out.
Deadbolts
Deadbolts are a type of lock that is often used on doors. They have a bolt that goes into the doorframe and is held in place by a spring. The key is inserted into the lock, pushing the bolt into the doorframe. If the key becomes stuck in a deadbolt, it is usually because the bolt is not aligned properly with the hole in the doorframe.
To remove the key, you will need to use a screwdriver to adjust the bolt to align it with the hole. Once the bolt is aligned, you should be able to remove the key.
Knob Locks
Knob locks are a type of lock that is often used on doors. They have a knob that is turned to open or close the door. The key is inserted into the lock and turns to release the latch that holds the door closed.
If the key becomes stuck in a knob lock, several things can cause it. The first is if the latch is not aligned properly with the hole in the door. The second is if the knob is loose and turns too easily. To remove the key, you will need to use a screwdriver to adjust the latch to align with the hole. Once the latch is aligned, you can remove the key from the lock.
Mortise Locks
Mortise locks are more complex than padlocks, and they are usually found on doors. This type of lock has a rectangular plate that fits into a hole in the door. The key is inserted into a hole in the plate and turns to engage or disengage a bolt. If your mortise lock key is stuck, the weather is something you can blame it on.
When it’s humid out, moisture can seep into the lock, which may cause the key to getting stuck in the lock. The best way to remove a mortise lock key is to use a lubricant. You can either use a commercial lubricant or WD-40. Spray the lubricant into the keyhole and wait a few minutes for it to work. Then, you should be able to insert the key and turn it to remove the stuck key.
Cylinder Locks
Cylinder locks are also a complex type of lock. This type of lock has a cylindrical body that fits into a hole in the door. The cylinder lock is mounted inside the door, has a twist knob to lock it from the inside, and then has an exterior cylinder that requires either a key or a code to unlock.
If your key is stuck in a cylinder lock, it is likely because the interior cylinder is not aligned properly with the exterior cylinder. The best way to remove a key from a cylinder lock is to use a screwdriver to adjust the interior cylinder to align with the exterior cylinder. Once the cylinders are aligned, you can remove your key from the lock.
Tips To Not Get Your Key Stuck In Lock Again
If you find yourself in the frustrating situation of having a key stuck in the lock, there are a few things you can do to try to remove it. However, prevention is always better than cure, so we’ve included some tips to help you avoid getting your key stuck in the lock again. Here are some things you can do so your key won’t get stuck again.
- Maintaining your lock: It is important to maintain your locks to prevent rust and dirt build-up. Lubricate your locks regularly with a quality lubricant, such as WD-40 or silicone spray. If you live in an area with high humidity, you may need to lubricate more often.
- Checking the Key for Damage: Always check your key for damage before inserting it into the lock. If the key is bent, twisted, or otherwise damaged, it is more likely to get stuck.
- Inserting the Key Carefully: Take your time when inserting the key into the door lock. That way, you avoid breaking the stuck key inside. Make sure you align the key correctly with the tumblers inside the lock. If you force the key into the lock, it will likely get stuck.
- Using the Correct Key: Make sure you are using the correct key for the lock. The wrong key can damage the tumblers inside the lock and make it more difficult to remove the key.
Conclusion
In conclusion, getting a broken key stuck in a lock is a frustrating experience. However, there are some things you can do to try to remove the key and some things you can do to prevent it from happening again. If all else fails and you can not remove the key, call a locksmith. They will have the tools and expertise to remove the key without damaging the lock.
Are you in need of a locksmith? Look no further than CD Locksmith! We have the right tools and experience to get your key out of the lock quickly and efficiently. We also offer a wide range of other locksmith services, so we can help you with all your locksmith needs. Give locksmith Lake Worth FL a call today!
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