How to Get a House Door Deadbolt Lock Unfrozen

Quickly unfreeze a deadbolt using a de-icer.

The inability to unlock a door in the winter might be due to a frozen deadbolt. Deadbolts on front, side or back doors can stick in the winter months due to freezing condensation. Reducing condensation can stop this problem. But if your deadbolt is already frozen, several techniques can help unstick the lock.

Instructions

1. Spray de-icer on the deadbolt. Keep a can of de-icer on hand during the winter months to quickly unfreeze a deadbolt. De-icer cans include a slender spray handle that can fit between the door and door jamb.

2. Use WD-40. If de-icer isn't on hand, grab a can of WD-40 to help unstick a frozen deadbolt. Spray the chemical in the space between the door and the door jamb. This lubricant is a water-displacing spray that will help melt the ice and allow the door to open.

3. Turn on your hair dryer. Hold the hair dryer in front of the door and allow the warm air to penetrate the space between the door and the door jamb to unfreeze the deadbolt.

Tips & Warnings

• Reduce the chances of a deadbolt freezing by reducing condensation on your door. Get rid of condensation by decreasing the humidity in your home. Use a dehumidifier or raise the temperature in your home to help bring down the humidity level.

References

• "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Simple Home Repair"; Judy Ostrow
• "New Fix-It-Yourself Manual"; Reader's Digest