Lift-to-lock door handle occasionally won't let the key turn

[john2k]

My front door has a lift-to-lock multipoint locking system. To lock it, I have to lift the handle so all the locking points engage, then turn the key. If I don't lift the handle first, the key won't turn.

Lately I've noticed that, every now and then, I'll lift the handle as far as it seems to go, but the key still won't turn. If I apply a bit more upward pressure on the handle, even though it doesn't feel like it's moving any further, the key will then turn and the door locks normally.

Has anyone come across this before? Is there anything I can check or adjust myself that might fix it?

Also, is there any way to make the key operate the lock without having to lift the handle first, or is that simply how these multipoint locking systems are designed?

I'd really appreciate any advice or suggestions.

Thanks!

 

[jj4091]

Sounds normal.

 

[ronniecabers]

Sounds like minor adjustment is needed on hinges, beware though the heat will cause upvc to swell...even white upvc
Pretty much all multipoint with lever handles are lift to lock , as it engages the locking points
As a side note , you should really pull thr handle up every time, as it reduces the risk of warping

 

[foxhole]

WD40. Usually sorts it.

 

[ronniecabers]

I wouldnt use wd40 on multipoint locks, washes all the grease out of the gearboxes and that cause more issues
Graphite spray/grease or similiar for any gearboxes, bit of vaseline or similiar on other moving parts,

 

[Wayners]

Silicone spray. Never never never wd 40. That will make it worse!
It's a rust free loosener and cleaner that evaporates.

Probably the heat as our front door is a problem but fine when it's under 22c ish.

Latch plates screws tight?
Sometimes you just got to put up with it.. Dark coloured doors in direct sunlight are worse.

 

[diy_fun_uk]

Also, is there any way to make the key operate the lock without having to lift the handle first, or is that simply how these multipoint locking systems are designed?

No and yes.

 

[foxhole]

Silicone spray. Never never never wd 40. That will make it worse!
It's a rust free loosener and cleaner that evaporates.

Probably the heat as our front door is a problem but fine when it's under 22c ish.

Latch plates screws tight?
Sometimes you just got to put up with it.. Dark coloured doors in direct sunlight are worse.

It’s also an oil lubricant .My doors still have plenty of grease , wd40 did not remove any.

 

[ronniecabers]

Does the inside of the gearbox still have grease? Trust me , been working on doors for 25 years... multipoint locks ( particular gearboxes ) & wd40 are not a good match