How to Thaw a Frozen Padlock or Master Lock

Do you use padlocks to secure your gates or outbuildings? Padlocks are a simple lock that uses a key to open. These type of locks are secure, hard to cut through, and difficult to unlock when the temperatures outdoors are below freezing.

Master locks and padlocks are made up of a series of plates that a key must navigate and turn for the lock to open. When the outdoor temperatures are below freezing, any moisture found lurking in the lock will freeze as well, preventing the key from being inserted. If the padlocks or Master Locks on your fence or buildings are so frozen that the key can't be forced through the opening, these simple tips will help you thaw the lock.

1. Enclose the lock in your gloved hands

The heat from our hands is sometimes warm enough to thaw the ice that prevents the tumblers from moving. One of the first tricks I'll try when encountering a frozen lock on the alley gate is to place my hands around the lock for about a minute. This sometimes is enough to melt the ice so the key can be inserted. Don't do this with bare hands, or you might find your hands stuck to the lock.

2. Use a lighter to heat the lock

In very cold climates, it may takes a little more heat to thaw out a lock. A lighter or a candle is a great way to thaw out the padlock. Direct the flame towards the keyhole to melt any ice in the opening. Heating up the key will also work.

3. Try automotive lock de-icer

If you happen to have a can of automotive lock de-icer available, this product will also thaw out a Master Lock. If not, a great substitute is common household rubbing alcohol. I'll use a plastic bulb syringe to draw up a tablespoon of alcohol and then squirt it up into the keyhole. If you don't have this type of syringe available, you can decant the rubbing alcohol into a small spray bottle instead.