Your padlock’s longevity might depend on two tiny holes you’ve probably never noticed. Positioned discreetly at the lock’s base, these unassuming openings are actually maintenance access points and moisture vents rolled into one.
Water drainage is their primary job. By creating an exit path for condensation and rainwater, they prevent the internal corrosion that causes most padlock failures. This is why quality outdoor locks always include them, while cheaper indoor models often don’t.
Their secondary role is equally valuable. When your lock begins to stiffen with age, these holes become lubrication ports. A quick spray through them can restore buttery-smooth operation, often saving locks that would otherwise need replacement.