How much power does a magnetic lock use?

Author: Marlin Pacocha  |  Last update: Friday, March 28, 2025

The power for an electromagnet lock is DC (direct current), around 5–6 W. The current is around 0.5 A when the voltage supply is 12 VDC and 0.25 A when using 24 VDC (varies between manufacturers and if there are one or two coils in the block). It is also recommended to verify that the magnetic lock carries the UL mark.

How many amps does a maglock draw?

For commercial and institutional applications, mag locks are normally 12-24VDC powered electromagnets. The amperage draw ranges from approximately 125mA to more than 500mA at 24VDC, and 230mA to more than 600mA at 12VDC. The magnet size, holding force and construction determine the draw.

What are the disadvantages of magnetic lock?

Dependent on constant power supply: A magnetic lock system is entirely dependent on a constant power supply to maintain the magnetic field which holds the lock in place. In the event of a power outage, the system is compromised and the door will unlock, which could be a security risk.

What are the power requirements for mag lock?

The MA lock can be specified in a 12 or 24V DC configuration (default is 12V). Additionally, an AC power source may be used as long as a rectifier is installed in the circuit (not provided). Here are the electrical requirements for both: Voltage: 12V DC +/- 10%

What voltage does a maglock use?

Resolution: Do magnetic locks take AC voltage? No, maglocks only take 12 or 24 volts DC from a filtered and regulated power supply, generally at less than 1 amp @ 12vdc, and . 5 amp @ 24vdc. AC power will destroy the maglock and / or the maglock control module, and will void the maglock warranty.

Electric Locks vs. Magnetic Locks: What’s the Difference?

How much electricity does a mag lock use?

An automatic door and magnetic lock system also constantly consumes electricity, and even when closed, standby power is used. Magnetic locks use 0.142 kWh to operate for 24 hours, meaning it can cost up to £2.5 per day to power just one door in a building.

How many watts does a magnetic lock use?

Magnetic locks are always DC devices and maybe be 12 or 24vDC. This specification allows for a single maglock which controls an entrance door.

How much force does it take to open a magnetic lock?

A holding force of 650 lbs. (Figure 1) is typical for most magnetic locks fit for traffic control and they may be easily defeated. However, this is a benefit compared to the use of light duty electric strikes.

What is the difference between electric lock and magnetic lock?

Electric strikes lock the door from only one side. However, this feature is advantageous for building premises where access control is needed in only one direction. Magnetic locks can keep the door locked from both sides. This feature is advantageous when access control is required in both directions.

Does a maglock need a diode?

Facts: - - Most Maglocks DO NOT require a diode to be added by the installer.

What is the problem with maglocks?

Misalignment of the Lock

Another common problem with maglocks is misalignment, which can cause the lock to bind or not release properly. This can be caused by a poorly installed door frame, a misaligned strike plate, or a warped door.

What happens to magnetic locks when power goes out?

Maglocks require constant power to stay locked, making them fail-safe. If the power goes out for any reason, the maglock's magnetic hold will release and the opening will no longer be secured. On the other hand, fail-secure locking functions require power to unlock a door.

How long do maglocks last?

Built to last and with virtually no maintenance requirements, they provide an effective form of access control that can be relied upon for years to come. maglocks are an incredibly reliable security measure for any commercial or residential building.

Why is my maglock buzzing?

If a magnetic lock is buzzing or noisy it could be the result of an AC component riding on the DC supply voltage. Using a meter, check for AC riding the DC level. If possible test the mag lock with 12 or 24 batteries.

What gauge wire is used in maglocks?

For connecting an electric strike or a mag lock to the ACU, use 18 gauge 2 conductor cables. For exit and egress devices, use 22 gauge 4 conductors (or 6 conductors depending on the egress device) cables.

How many amps does a 12 volt refrigerator use?

Typical Power Consumption of 12V Fridges

On average, a 12V fridge can consume anywhere from 1 to 5 amp-hours per hour of operation. However, these numbers can vary.

Do magnetic locks need power?

The primary difference between electric strike locks (door strike) and magnetic locks (maglocks) is their power requirement. Maglocks are fail-safe, while electric strikes are generally fail-secure. In other words: Magnetic locks require power to lock the door, whereas electric locks require power to unlock the door.

What is the alternative to mag lock?

Unlike maglocks, electric strikes can be either fail-safe or fail-secure, making electric strikes ideal for high-security locations that need to remain locked, even during a power outage.

What is the current draw of a maglock?

Current draw: 480mA at 12Vdc, 240mA at 24Vdc (at temperature 20°C). Operating temperature: -10~55°C (14 to 131°F).

How much electricity does a magnetic lock use?

The power for an electromagnet lock is DC (direct current), around 5–6 W. The current is around 0.5 A when the voltage supply is 12 VDC and 0.25 A when using 24 VDC (varies between manufacturers and if there are one or two coils in the block). It is also recommended to verify that the magnetic lock carries the UL mark.

How reliable are magnetic locks?

So, are magnetic locks secure? Absolutely. With their impressive holding strength, resistance to lock picking, and easy integration into access control systems, they are a reliable addition to any security setup.

What is the holding force of a maglock?

I have found three common holding-force sizes for maglocks. 600, 1200, 1500 lbs | 180, 280, 545kg. I guess it would be easy to open a datacenter door held closed with a 600lb maglock (or less).

What is the strength of a maglock?

The difference is when the maglock is the only locking device on the door. If the magnet is intended to provide security to keep the door closed and keep the building secure when unoccupied, then 500kg holding force is a minimum requirement.

How many volts does a magnetic generator produce?

In no-load conditions, a permanent magnet generator can generate voltages from 69.5 to 223.7 V and frequencies range from 33.5 to 50.9 V at rotational speeds of 2000 to 3000 rpm.

How strong is magnetic door catch?

Plastic magnetic catches may have a pull force of 5 pounds, whereas aluminum magnetic catches may have a pull force of 6 pounds.

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