Door Locks & Maglocks: Not Locking? Quick Checks Before You Call

Quick intro: Whether it’s an electric strike or a maglock, these steps can get you back to secure.

Door lock not working—common causes

    •    Power: blown fuse, tripped breaker, loose transformer, failed supply
    •    Schedule/Mode: door held unlocked by a schedule/manual override
    •    Door position: misaligned latch/strike keeps it from securing
    •    Controller: door forced/held alarms, offline panel, bad relay

Who to call

    •    Mechanical lock issues → locksmith.
    •    Electronic lock or access-control logic → BBC Systems.

Maglocks not working—doors open but won’t lock

    •    No power to the maglock
    •    Fire alarm drop engaged (maglocks must release on fire)
    •    Stuck REX or motion sensor holding the door in exit mode
    •    Door not closing flush (gap/debris)
    •    Held-open schedule in software

What controls a maglock?

The access controller, power supply, REX devices, door position switch, and a fire-alarm relay (drops power during emergencies).

Quick checks (safe)
    •    Ensure the door fully closes to the magnet (no gap; plate clean)
    •    Verify the exit sensor/button isn’t stuck active
    •    After a fire alarm, maglocks may stay released until reset—call us if they don’t re-secure
    •    Multiple maglocks out → check the power supply (LEDs/fuses)

When it’s definitely a service call
    •    Anything tied to the fire-alarm interface
    •    Power-supply faults, blown fuses, wiring damage
    •    Controller offline or multiple doors impacted