It’s incredibly frustrating to find yourself locked out of your home. However, if your house key won’t turn the lock, there’s no need to panic. The lock repair technicians at Able Security Locksmith in Kenvil, NJ, say there are several steps you should follow to identify the source of the problem.

Below, these expert locksmiths explain what to do when your house key stops working:

• Check the Key for Visible Damage: If your house key won’t turn the lock, start by looking for visible damage. If the key is broken, use your spare key until a locksmith makes you a new one. However, keep in mind that damage caused by ordinary wear and tear is often not visible to the naked eye. If you haven’t replaced your key in a few years, it has likely worn out.
• Lubricate the Lock: If you don’t see any visible damage on the key, try lubricating the lock with a solvent-based lubricant. It’s possible that dirt and dust have caused the pins to stick, preventing the lock from functioning properly. Just spray the lubricant into the keyway and attempt to turn the key a few times to loosen and remove the dirt. 
• Call a Licensed Locksmith: When the aforementioned steps fail, call a locksmith to investigate and remedy the problem. However, take care to only hire a locksmith who is professionally licensed. Unfortunately, many unlicensed locksmiths take advantage of people who are desperate to get back into their homes. These scam artists will often advertise extremely low prices but charge you exorbitant fees once they arrive to your property.

When your house key stops working, contact Able Security Locksmith to repair the lock or make you a new key. This licensed, bonded, and insured company has served families and businesses in Morris, Sussex, and Warren counties for more than 25 years. Call (973) 584-3033 to speak with a friendly locksmith, and visit their website to learn more about their lock installation and door repair services.