While trying to unlock the door to your house, you may have found that the key will not turn and that you cannot remove it from the lock. Especially if this is the only key to your home, you may start panicking because you can't get inside. If so, calm down, and try using the following tips to help get your stuck key out of the lock.
1. Cool the Key down Before You Try to Remove It
While you were attempting to turn and remove the key, the heat from your hands, as well as the friction caused by the contact of the metal from the key and the lock, has probably expanded the metal of the key. Because of this expansion, the key may be fitting tighter inside of the lock than normal, making it hard to pull out.
Before you attempt to remove the key, let it cool down first. You can let the key sit for about five minutes. Or, if you are in a hurry and happen to have a fountain drink in your car, rub the key with some ice for a couple of minutes. Either way, once the key has cooled down, go on to the next section.
2. Jiggle the Key Instead of Trying to Pull It Out
After allowing the key to cool down a bit, now you can try to pull it out of the lock. However, do not attempt to pull it straight out, and do not push hard on the key, as doing so may break either the lock's interior tumbler or the key itself.
Instead, jiggle the key slightly as you gently try pulling it out of the lock. If the tumbler is out of alignment and is causing the issue, the jiggling motion may help to bring the cylinder back into alignment.
If you meet a lot of resistance while trying to pull on the key, gingerly push it back in, and try jiggling the key without pulling. Then, repeat the sequence of actions. If you cannot budge the key after a couple of tries, you will need to seek professional assistance.
After trying the above tips, you may be ready to break a window in order to gain entry into your house. However, instead of taking such drastic measures, contact an emergency locksmith, explain your situation, and have them come to your home to help either get the key out or replace the lock for you.
Reach out to locksmith companies for more information.
