Author: Ryaan Tuttle
Links: ['https://besthandymanboston.com/']
Source: https://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-Outdoor-Locks-from-Freezing
This only works if you get the lubricant inside the lock. Get the nozzle right up to the lock opening and give it a good squirt.
You could also use this trick for combination locks. Spray any openings so the lubricant gets into the lock mechanism.
Graphite tends to work a bit better on car locks, so give this a try if WD-40 hasn't done the trick for you.
Like with WD-40, spray your locks regularly with graphite during the winter to prevent freezing.
This trick is a good replacement if you don’t have WD-40 or a similar lubricant.
This trick won't work for combination locks, since you can't use a key to coat the interior.
Petroleum jelly could also loosen the lock if it does freeze. Coat the key in it and slide it into the lock to see if you can open it.
The air blasts moisture out of the lock. Use a compressed air can, like you’d use to clean your computer screen. Put the nozzle right up to any lock and give it a good spray. With the moisture blasted out, the lock is less likely to freeze or seize up.
This is only a short-term solution, since it doesn’t actually prevent moisture from getting into the lock. It’s best to follow-up with a lubricant or covering so moisture doesn’t get back inside the lock.
This simple trick can keep the lock dry when it’s cold. Get a strong magnet and stick it to the lock opening. Make sure it covers the entire opening so moisture can’t sneak in. When you’re ready to open the lock, just pop the magnet off and slide the key in normally.
This is a good way to follow-up with a compressed air treatment, since it stops more moisture from getting in the lock.
It’s also a good trick for car locks. You can keep the magnet in your glove box and pop it onto your lock when you know it’ll be cold.
This works best along with another method, like lubrication. The sock alone might not be warm enough to stop water from freezing, especially in a cold area.
Make sure the sock is totally dry! If it gets wet, it could freeze around the lock and then you'll really be out of luck.
This trick won’t work for door or car locks. The sock has to wrap around the lock entirely to keep it warm enough.
Some padlocks are specifically designed to resist freezing. Look for a high-quality weatherproof lock, preferably with a plastic casing that blocks moisture. These can resist the cold better than regular locks.
Weatherproof locks aren’t guaranteed to not freeze. They just resist freezing better than normal locks.
You’re not out of luck if your lock does freeze. Simply rub some hand sanitizer on the key and slide it into the lock. Shake it back and forth a few times, then try to turn the key. The alcohol in the hand sanitizer should melt the ice and free the lock.
There are also lock de-icing sprays that you can use to loosen a frozen lock. They work a bit better, but are more expensive.