You’ve probably used padlocks for various purposes, but have you ever wondered what the hole in the bottom of a padlock is for? Things like this may have escaped your notice, but you’ll be shocked at how handy these little locks are.
This is a question that many people who own padlocks often ask, and more often than not, there is no answer. So, to understand why it is best to know how padlocks work.
Padlocks are essentially a locking mechanism that secures an object or door via a metal shackle that fits into a hole in the thing or door. Since the shackle is inserted into the hole, there is no way to open it without the padlock key.
There are several reasons why most padlocks have a hole in the bottom. However, you can also find this tiny hole on the other sides of some padlocks. There are different padlocks with holes in different positions.
The hole on the bottom of a padlock is not just there for decoration.
If you have ever wondered what it is for, it is there to act as a drain. This prevents water from getting inside your padlock when you take your padlock out on a wet day.
This can cause rust to accumulate and eventually destroy the inside of your lock. So the hole in the bottom of the padlock is there to allow the water to drain out of the lock.
Also, the small round hole you see in the bottom of the padlock is a reset plate. The reset plate gives you a way to unlock a padlock that has been locked for an extended period. The padlock must be reset if you want to use the padlock again.
What’s the little hole next to the keyhole?
In summary, the small hole you see under padlocks on the outside can lubricate the inside of the lock. This is especially important for locks that are used in different environments and climates.
Not only can you use these holes to lubricate the lock, but if the lock is used outdoors, it will also allow any water that gets in from the rain, etc., to drain out of the lock.
This helps prevent rust and keeps the lock from jamming in colder temperatures or water from freezing inside.
If your lock is locked and you can’t open it, you can pour motor oil or other lubricating oil into the holes so you can turn the key easily.
When you drain the oil, let it sit for a minute before draining it again. Then let it sit for another minute, or until it flows through the drain hole, and use your key. Your padlock should now be working properly!
If your lock is stuck and you can’t open it, you can pour motor oil or oil into the holes, and this will help you turn the key without any problems.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hole in a padlock?
First, it drains water when you use it outdoors, preventing it from rusting or freezing in rain or snow.
That’s why they call them “drain holes.” It also prevents corrosion of the lock mechanism if you leave it outside for a while and can be used to lubricate the mechanism.
The hole also prevents water from entering the lock when you bring your padlock in for repair. If the drain hole is blocked, water will accumulate inside, and the lock will rust.
The round hole is often overlooked, but it can be used to reset your padlock, meaning it now acts as a key that fits all other locks on your property.
What Can You Do With It?
Secondly, the hole can also be used to oil the lock so that it functions properly. When the lock is used in an environment where it can get wet, the hole allows air to lubricate it.
This can prevent rust and help prevent your lock from freezing if you leave it outside for an extended time.
How Do You Use It?
If you have a padlock with a round hole in the bottom, put some lubricating oil in the hole and put a small piece of paper over it.