Industrial locks, whether digital or mechanical, are critical for securing facilities and equipment, managing access across your sites to only approved personnel. However, exposure to harsh environments such as dust, moisture, extreme temperatures and heavy usage can degrade their performance over time. Proper industrial lock maintenance ensures longevity, reliability and continued security.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- Essential mechanical lock care
- Digital lock aftercare practices
- Long-term solutions to extend lock lifespan
Why Aftercare Matters for Industrial Lock Maintenance
Industrial locks face constant wear and tear, making aftercare crucial for:
- A more professional look – Cleaning keypads and digital displays regularly will help keep your business looking professional
- Reducing replacement costs – Regular upkeep and maintenance is cheaper than a full lock replacement
- Improved security – A buildup of dirt around commonly used buttons will give an unauthorised user a good indication of the code being used. Cleaning the keypad regularly will help prevent this issue
Neglecting maintenance can lead to lock failure, security breaches and costly downtime.
Mechanical Lock Care – Maintenance Tips
Mechanical locks are robust but require regular attention to stay in top condition. Follow these lock cleaning tips and maintenance steps to keep your locks performing:
Inspect for wear and damage
- Check for rust and bent keys.
Protect from corrosion
- In humid environments, check for corrosion or damage
- Choose stainless steel or coated locks for added durability.
Test functionality frequently
- Ensure keys turn smoothly and bolts retract properly.
By following these steps, you can keep secure industrial locks functioning optimally.
Digital Lock Aftercare – Maintenance Tips
Digital locks and smart locks offer advanced security but require different care than mechanical ones. Here’s how to maintain them:
Keep sensors and keypads clean
- Wipe fingerprint scanners, touchpads and card readers with a microfiber cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage sensitive electronic components.
Check battery life
- Replace batteries proactively to prevent lockouts.
- Use high-quality, long-lasting batteries for better performance.
- Use a battery-less system, such as ECHO
Proper digital lock aftercare prevents malfunctions and extends the life of your smart locks.
Long-Term Solutions to Extend Lock Lifespan
Beyond routine maintenance, consider these steps to extend your lock lifespan:
- Choose the right lock for the environment – Opt for high-security, weather-resistant models in harsh settings.
- Implement scheduled maintenance – Create a checklist for monthly or quarterly inspections.
Investing in lock support for harsh environments ensures long-term reliability, meaning your locks will perform for years to come.
Want to upgrade your industrial locks? Shop our range of mechanical and smart locks to discover a solution for your business.
Shop mechanical locks
Shop digital smart locks
FAQs
How often should I lubricate a mechanical lock?
With a high-quality mechanical lock, you don’t need to lubricate it. We recommend that you refrain from adding lubricants to mechanical locks, as they can become trapped in the internal mechanism, causing the lock to degrade over time.
What’s the average lifespan of a digital lock?
With proper care, digital locks can last up to 50,000 mechanical cycles per pair of batteries.
How do I clean a smart lock?
Use a soft, slightly damp cloth. Avoid alcohol-based cleaners that can damage sensors.
Are there industrial locks designed for extreme temperatures?
Yes, look for models rated for high heat or freezing conditions. Our high-security mechanical locks are corrosion-resistant, high-temperature-resistant up to 65 °C, and low-temperature-resistant up to -25°C.
