Winter Tips: How to defrost a frozen lock

Photo of a key in a door.

We’ve had a few frosty mornings and nights this winter, and as temperatures dip below zero, there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself with a frozen door lock. If this happens to you, there are some easy ways to defrost your lock safely.

Top tip: Please don’t try to force your key into the lock, as you may break your key!

How to defrost a frozen lock:

  1. Hand Sanitizer (alcohol-based)
    Coat your key with hand sanitizer and insert the key gently into the frozen lock, but do not force it.
  2. De-icer
    Spray de-icer into the lock and gently insert the key, avoiding force.
  3. Your hands
    Heat your key in your hands or put your thumb on the lock for a short while, this could thaw the lock enough to get your key in.
  4. Hot water
    Carefully pour hot water into the lock until it thaws.