Combination locks are simple to use, inexpensive, and can be found on everything from small cash boxes to large commercial safes. With a combination lock, a series of digits must be entered on the dial to unlock the safe’s door and open the safe. This lock may be dial-type or pushbutton-type.
It is operated by a key and has dials that turn to a specific combination. The combination is set by means of a key. Each time a digit is entered, the locking mechanism is manipulated and the next digit must be entered. The pushbutton-type combination lock also called a key-in-knob lock, is the most common type of combination lock found on residential safes. However, most people don’t realize how vulnerable they are to being compromised. Here are common safe opening problems you should know.
Wrong Combination
The most common problem is the combination is not set properly. The majority of safe opening problems occur due to incorrect combinations being used. This is the most common problem in safe openings, by far. When you purchase a safe there are two different types of combination: an adjustable dial that can be set to any combination, and a pre-set combination lock that can only be opened using the combination provided. Each offers a level of security and convenience that may be more suitable depending on your needs. For example, adjustable dial safes are convenient because you can set the combination to whatever you would like. However, this also means that you should be extra careful about keeping it concealed and protected.
The adjustable dial is the most common type of combination lock-in safe and is the most secure way to protect your valuables. It is easy to use but can be difficult to remember.
Safe Not Opening With The Correct Key
Another common problem with safe openings is that the correct key is not being used. If you have a lot of keys on the safe key ring, you may accidentally use the wrong key. This results in the key not working and, in the case of a safe opening, may result in the safe being damaged.
Loose Combination Dial
If your door safe is combination dial safe, then the dial might not rotate completely. This is a common problem. The reason why it happens is that when you open the safe, the dial doesn’t spin freely. It’s usually caused by a bent shaft. If the dial doesn’t spin freely, then you need to straighten out the shaft.
What A Locksmith Can Do?
When any of the above happens, the best you can do is to call a professional locksmith. A locksmith will use a variety of tools to free the lock. These include a distance measuring gauge, torque wrench, pick, shim and a small hammer called a bump hammer.
Most likely, a locksmith will simply use a small tool to tap or hit the bottom of the dial and then spin it freely. Once the dial is spinning freely, the locksmith will use a long thin tool called a dial indicator to check the number of rotations the dial makes in a given amount of time. This gives him the combination.
A locksmith may also use other methods such as an x-ray to find the combination. However, this is not always necessary and is only done when the other methods fail. After finding the combination, the locksmith will remove the lock from the door and give it to you. He will also examine the door to make sure there are no signs of forced entry. If he finds none, he will replace the lock and you can retrieve your safe. If there is any sign of forced entry, then the locksmith will have to remove and replace parts of the door or even the entire door.
At the end of the day, the right choice of safe will depend heavily on the individual’s unique needs and preferences. If you are looking for the most reliable safe opening sales, installations, and repair services, contact our professional team at Locks Around The Clock Palm Desert. Our professional locksmiths will deliver the best price and service available in the industry. We provide professional safe opening services throughout Palm Desert, Palm Springs, La Quinta, and the Coachella Valley. Our locksmith services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call us today at (760) 894-5017 to schedule an appointment.
