Modern lock

[JanieB]

I've been asked by friend to feed her cats while she is on holiday. She left me with a front door key, instructions and the code to her security system. Last night was fine but tonight wasn't. I haven't been able to lock her door. I gave up after 20 mins. It's one of the hold the handle up and turn the key systems. It's not working. Can anyone give me a clue as to what I'm doing wrong.

[Jungle Jane]

If it's the same as mine this is what I do - put the key in & turn it about 90 degrees (it will block you from turning it anymore) at this point lift the handle up,then that unblocks the thing in the key chamber so you can carry on turning the key,while you're holding the handle up. If that doesn't work do you think it might be double locked if that is possible?

[Guest]

Try both
1)holding the handle up whilst locking
2)lifting handle allow it to return to normal position then lock.

I have come across locks that work one or other way, apart from that dunno

[JanieB]

Thanks. I'll have a go at both those suggestions inna minute. I've left my shopping in her garden.

[1Bee]

Also sometimes you have to lift in that extra mm or so, with a good amount of ooph. My Mum's door was like that.

[JanieB]

I've tried all suggestions. They haven't worked. I feel so guilty. It really can't be that difficult.

[Potstubsdustbins]

It could be that the lock bolts are slightly out off line where they enter the door frame. Open the door and check the bolt recesses for any dirt or shiny metal parts, remove any dirt, shiny metal parts means it is slightly out off line not a lot you can do about that, needs a tradesman.

Then close the door and lift the handle with a good amount of force, holding the handle up try the key, if it does not turn lower the handle slowly keeping a slight pressure on the key it may just drop in for you.

[Nicos]

We had 2 new doors fitted a few weeks ago and they have similar locks/ door handles.
We had to have the guy back to realign one of the locks.
May be the fault of the door and not you?
Are you able to lock the front door from the inside and use the back door instead?

[JanieB]

We had 2 new doors fitted a few weeks ago and they have similar locks/ door handles.
We had to have the guy back to realign one of the locks.
May be the fault of the door and not you?
Are you able to lock the front door from the inside and use the back door instead?

It's the only door.

[Nicos]

It's the only door.

Darn.
What will you do then?...any joy today?

[Hazel at the Hill]

I'm worried about the cats if you can't get in to feed them.

If you think that it's just a 'knack', can you dragoon in a neighbour to help, or a friend - or is your son not around? Otherwise it's going to have to be a locksmith if the cats are trapped in the house with no access to food or fresh water whilst your friend is away.

[veggiechicken]

I haven't been able to lock her door. I gave up after 20 mins. .

I'm worried about the cats if you can't get in to feed them.

I'd worry that someone can get in and steal the cats

[Hazel at the Hill]

Oh - you can't lock it? Sorry - didn't read that properly!!

That's ok then. I'm less worried about the cats being stolen than them starving.

[JanieB]

Sorted. I knew the door was locking but I couldn't get the key out without unlocking it again. This time I locked it and pulled the handle slowly upwards until it released the key. The door stayed locked. Whew!

[WilliamD]

Well done. I bet when your friend comes back you'll want to see how she does it.