Safes are generally reliable, but they can encounter issues over time. Often, minor problems have straightforward remedies.
Members of the Safe and Vault Technicians Association (SAVTA) — a division of ALOA — are highly skilled and experienced and can make repairs and perform preventive maintenance on your safe or vault. They will also be able to “crack” open your safe if you are locked out.
Here are some common problems with safes and possible solutions:
Dirt, dust or lack of lubrication.
If you’re having intermittent problems getting your safe open, it may just need maintenance. Don’t lubricate your safe lock yourself, as these very intricate locks require very specific lubricant and application to operate correctly. If your safe is open and unlocked, avoid locking it and contact a SAVTA member for servicing.
Incorrect dialing of the combination, worn-out dials or misalignment.
Double-check the combination by purposefully dialing the combination to unlock the safe. If the issue persists, consult a SAVTA member for advice or servicing.
Dead batteries or faulty wiring.
Replace the batteries in the lock with fresh batteries. Be sure to install batteries from a high-quality manufacturer, like Duracell. If the keypad still doesn't work, there might be an internal wiring issue that requires professional repair.
The handle might appear jammed due to internal misalignment, lock mechanism issues or because the safe is overstuffed with material
Wait for the lock-out period to expire before trying again. The lock-out time period will vary among manufacturers, so refer to the safe's manual for the specific duration.
The handle might appear jammed due to internal misalignment, lock mechanism issues or because the safe is overstuffed with material
Find the midpoint of the handle’s play and re-enter the code. Also, try pushing in on the safe door when operating the handle. This will help relieve any back pressure on the inside of the door if the safe has been overstuffed. If it still doesn't work, internal repairs may be necessary.
Regular preventive maintenance and proper usage can prevent many of these issues, especially if your safe or vault is old or heavily used. If problems persist, contact a SAVTA professional to avoid causing further damage or a lock-out condition.
.jpg)
.avif){kind=icon}