A file cabinet is a piece of furniture that is used in offices and homes to store and organize papers. A lot of these cabinets have locks that work like cams or plungers to help keep documents safe. The owners of these cabinets have to change the locks on them often because keys get lost or to keep people from getting in without permission in an office setting. Even if you’ve lost the key, it’s not too hard to change the lock on a filing cabinet.
Yes, you can buy new locks for file cabinets. But you must have the right replacement parts on hand, be able to get to the cabinet, and know how to replace the parts. If you don’t feel comfortable doing these things on your own, you can call a locksmith for help.
If you work in a busy office, replacing the lock core on your filing cabinet every so often could be a good safety measure. It’s not hard to get there. The method is more stylish if the old lock is open or if you still have the key if it isn’t. If not, you might have to drill out the old core and break it down. Most of the time, you need a wrench or a pair of pliers to make the switch. However, some manufacturers make cores that can be swapped with a special key. Now it’s easier to switch them out often.
To fix or change a file cabinet lock, you have to open the file cabinet. To do this, you might have to take apart the whole key lock mechanism. To take out the center cylinder of the cabinet lock, use a hammer and chisel or a drill. Be careful, and make sure the chisel is sharp, or you could ruin the whole cabinet. When you take this cylinder out, the locking mechanism is no longer in place, so the cabinet will open on its own.
A professional locksmith can make you a new key if the manufacturer can’t or if you can’t wait the time it takes for them to make you one. Even if the locksmith doesn’t have the key template they need to make a new key, they may be able to make the existing key work (if it hasn’t been lost) or pick the lock so you can get into the filing cabinet.
Instead of telling you to do something drastic that could damage your file cabinet, a professional locksmith can give you a new key for your file cabinet. Buying a new filing cabinet would cost more than doing this. Don’t be afraid to tell them what they need to know.
Can the lock on a filing cabinet be changed?
Yes, you can buy new locks for file cabinets. But you must have the right replacement parts on hand, be able to get to the cabinet, and know how to replace the parts.
Are file cabinet locks universal?
When opened and closed with a padlock, it can be used as a universal lock for all drawers or to replace the locks on certain drawers. One or more drawers can also be locked or unlocked with other filing cabinet locks.
Should locks be changed or rekeyed?
Changing the key to a lock is almost always cheaper than getting a new lock. This is because the key pins inside locks are cheaper, but you have to buy all new parts when you replace a lock.
How can the lock on a file cabinet be changed if you don’t have the key?
If the only thing you need to get into the cabinet is the key you lost, you might not need to change the lock. Take a picture of the lock and a copy of the numbers on the front of the lock to a nearby locksmith. Most locksmiths can make a key that will open the cylinder if you lose yours.
How can the file cabinet be opened if the key is lost?
Start by straightening a paperclip but leaving one end bent. This will help you pick the lock on your filing cabinet. Then, slide the curved end of the paperclip into the keyhole while holding it vertically and pressing down on the inner pins.
What kind of lock does a file cabinet have?
Locks for file cabinets can be pad locks, cylinder locks, or locks with a cam. They can be made of electrical or mechanical parts. Depending on the file cabinet, you can use lock bars, sliding teeth, or a keypad lock.
Do file cabinet keys come from Home Depot?
Home Depot can also make skeleton keys for older locks and keys for padlocks and cabinet locks.
Can you make a key for a file cabinet?
Most locks have a code on the front of the cylinder that can be used to make a key that will open the lock at a factory. It’s easy, doesn’t cost much, and gives you control over your secure spaces. Send us the codes via email, and we’ll send you the keys in the mail.
How does the pedestal lock work?
Pedestal Lock Product Information: What makes it unique: It is perfect for multi-drawer pedestal systems that are installed from the front. A key can be taken out whether it is locked or not. The pin for lifting is turned around 180 degrees.
Can I change the key on my own?
You can get a professional to rekey a lock for a small fraction of the cost. Even though most lock makers sell rekeying kits, they can’t be used with each other. For each type of lock in your home, you need to buy a kit.
Does the original key have to be present to rekey a lock?
Yes, you can change a lock’s key without the old key. Even if you’ve lost or forgotten the original key, a locksmith can change your locks. Most locks can be picked or shimmed to open the door. Now that the lock cylinder has been taken out, it will be much easier for the locksmith to do his job.
Will Lowe’s rekey locks?
As of 2022, Lowe’s rekeys locks at almost all of its stores in the United States. Customers should know that not all locks can be rekeyed at Lowe’s. Customers can only get their locks rekeyed if they bought them at a Lowe’s store.
How do you use a knife to open a locked drawer?
Start by moving your knife gently up and down to get it into and out of the lock. Keep doing this for another 10–15 seconds. If the lock won’t open, try again by taking away the force that makes it turn and letting any pins you may have set by accident fall.