Magnetic Locks (Maglocks) FAQs
Finding the right magnetic lock ensures your building remains secure and your occupants stay safe. Backed by over 16 years of hands-on installation experience, we have compiled clear, practical answers to the most common questions about specifying, installing, and maintaining maglocks.
Choosing the Right Maglock
What is the difference between a 600lb and 1200lb magnetic lock?
The difference lies in the raw holding power of the electromagnet. A 600lb maglock provides ample resistance for internal office doors, retail stockrooms, and standard residential flats. However, if you are securing an external perimeter, a heavy steel door, or a high-risk commercial entrance, you must step up to a 1200lb lock. This massive holding force prevents severe physical attacks and keeps your main boundaries secure.
Can I install a maglock on glass, UPVC, or timber doors?
Yes, you can fit our magnetic locks to almost any door material by using the correct mounting accessories. Standard timber frames often allow for direct surface mounting. For outward-opening doors and UPVC frames, you will need a Z and L bracket set to achieve the correct mounting angle. If you are securing a frameless glass door, simply use a specialised U-bracket to clamp the armature plate safely to the glass without drilling.
Technical Functionality & Fire Safety
What happens to a magnetic lock during a power cut?
Magnetic locks are strictly fail-safe, meaning they instantly unlock when the mains power drops. Because they rely on a continuous electrical current to stay locked, a power cut leaves the door open. To keep your premises secure during a blackout, you should fit a lead-acid battery backup inside your boxed power supply unit. This ensures your access and control network operates flawlessly until the electricity returns.
Are maglocks compliant with UK fire safety regulations?
Yes, they are highly compliant when installed correctly. In fact, because maglocks are naturally fail-safe, they are the mandatory choice for designated emergency escape routes. To meet strict UK fire safety rules, you must wire your maglock to a green emergency break-glass switch on the secure side of the exit. This allows a person to physically break the electrical circuit and instantly drop power to the lock during a fire.
Maintenance & Troubleshooting
How do I stop my magnetic lock from buzzing or losing holding force?
Dirt and debris are the main causes of a buzzing or poorly holding maglock. You can resolve this by routinely wiping the face of the electromagnet and the metal armature plate with a soft cloth and a non-abrasive cleaner. Never paint the surface of the magnet or the plate. Also, ensure the armature plate retains a slight movement on its mounting bolt. The included rubber washer allows the plate to float slightly, ensuring it aligns perfectly flat against the magnet every time the door closes.
Trade Support & Bulk Orders
Do you offer discounts for trade installers buying in bulk?
Yes, we actively help trade professionals, locksmiths, and property managers maximise their margins through automatic bulk-buy discounts. When you order your maglocks and access control hardware with us, the discount applies instantly at checkout based on your basket total:
- Save 3% on orders over £250
- Save 10% on orders over £750
- Save 15% on orders over £1,500
What technical support is available if I need help on-site?
We provide expert, UK-based technical support for all our hardware. Our founders started as professional installers, bringing over 16 years of hands-on trade experience to our support desk. If you face a tricky door frame or a complex wiring challenge on-site, we are at the end of the phone to give you practical, straightforward advice to get your system running smoothly. Contact our support team at 0333 880 4930.