Blog

An electrified mortise lock is a commercial-grade locking system that combines mechanical durability with electronic access control. It provides the security of a traditional mortise lock with the convenience of electronic activation—allowing remote locking, unlocking, or integration with card readers, keypads, or fire alarm systems.

These locks are essential for modern access-controlled buildings, offering flexibility, compliance, and long-term reliability. From hospitals to government facilities, they form a key part of secure, code-compliant door systems.

What Is an Electrified Mortise Lock?

A standard mortise lock fits inside a rectangular pocket (the mortise) cut into the door edge. An electrified mortise lock adds internal wiring, a solenoid, or motor that connects to a power supply and control system.

When a signal is received from a card reader, keypad, or building automation system, the lock activates electronically to lock or unlock the door. The mechanical latch and key override remain fully functional, ensuring access even during power outages.

This combination of mechanical and electronic reliability makes electrified mortise locks ideal for high-security, high-traffic environments that demand both convenience and code compliance.

How Does an Electrified Mortise Lock Work?

Inside the mortise case, an electric solenoid or motor drive controls the latch mechanism. When power is applied, the solenoid moves a small pin or lever to either allow or prevent handle rotation.

Electrified locks can be configured as:

• Fail-Secure: The door stays locked during power loss and unlocks when power is applied—common for perimeter security.
  
  
• Fail-Safe: The door unlocks when power is lost, ensuring free egress in emergencies—required for certain interior and fire-rated doors.
  
  

These locks typically run on 12VDC or 24VDC power, supplied through concealed wiring that passes from the door frame via an electric hinge or power transfer loop.

When connected to an access control or fire alarm system, electrified mortise locks automatically coordinate with the building’s safety and security functions.

How an Electrified Lever Lock Works

An electrified lever lock functions similarly to an electrified mortise lock but uses a cylindrical format instead of a mortise pocket. The lever handle’s inside or outside trim is controlled by an electric current, which either enables or disables the lever’s ability to retract the latch.

This design is especially popular for retrofit projects where existing cylindrical door preps are already in place. Electrified lever locks deliver electronic control without requiring major door modification—ideal for offices, healthcare corridors, or tenant suites.

How Electrified Mortise Locks Are Mounted

Electrified mortise locks are installed much like standard mortise hardware, but with additional steps for wiring and power transfer.

1. Prepare the Door: Cut a rectangular mortise pocket in the door edge per the manufacturer’s template.
   
   
2. Install Power Transfer Hardware: Run low-voltage wiring through a concealed power transfer hinge or door loop from the frame to the door.
   
   
3. Mount the Lock Body: Insert the mortise case into the pocket and secure it with machine screws.
   
   
4. Attach Trim & Levers: Install the interior and exterior escutcheons or levers, connecting them to the internal mechanism.
   
   
5. Connect Wiring: Use quick-connect leads to attach the lock to the power supply and control system.
   
   
6. Test Operation: Confirm that both mechanical and electrical functions work smoothly, and that fail-safe or fail-secure operation behaves as specified.
   
   

Because accurate door prep and wiring are critical, installation should always be performed by a certified locksmith or access control technician to maintain code compliance and warranty protection.

Benefits of Electrified Mortise Locks

Electrified mortise locks combine Grade 1 mechanical strength with advanced electronic functionality, creating a secure and efficient access solution for any commercial facility.

Enhanced Access Control
These locks work seamlessly with keypads, proximity cards, biometric scanners, or key fobs, giving administrators precise control over user permissions and schedules. This eliminates the need for traditional rekeying when staff or tenants change.

Safety and Compliance
All models are designed to support free egress and comply with NFPA 101 Life Safety and ADA accessibility standards. During emergencies or power failures, doors function according to required fail-safe or fail-secure rules for occupant safety.

Exceptional Durability
Built with ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 components, electrified mortise locks withstand continuous operation in high-traffic areas while maintaining long-term reliability.

Clean Architectural Aesthetic
Because wiring and solenoids are concealed inside the door, electrified mortise locks maintain a sleek, professional appearance with no visible strikes or cables—ideal for modern commercial interiors.

Flexible Operation
Each lock can be configured for fail-safe or fail-secure performance to meet specific security or fire code requirements.

Low Maintenance
With fewer exposed parts and no surface strikes, these locks require minimal servicing, keeping long-term operating costs low.

Where to Buy Electrified Mortise Locks

National Lock Supply offers a complete range of electrified mortise and lever locks from industry leaders like Sargent, Corbin Russwin, Schlage, and Yale—all tested to ANSI/BHMA Grade 1 standards.

• In-Stock Guarantee: Most models ship the same business day.
• Bulk & Contractor Pricing: Save on multi-door and facility-wide projects.
• U.S.-Based Technical Support: Experts ready to assist with voltage, wiring, and code compliance.
• Trusted Brands Only: All locks UL-listed and backed by manufacturer warranties.

From single-door upgrades to full access control integrations, National Lock Supply provides certified hardware and expert guidance to help you secure every entry point efficiently.

Applications of Electrified Mortise Locks

Electrified mortise and lever locks are ideal for buildings that require controlled access and compliance with safety codes. Their adaptability and strength make them the standard in:

• Corporate offices and university campuses, where centralized access management enhances convenience and accountability.
  
  
• Hospitals, laboratories, and medical facilities, which require restricted access but unrestricted egress.
  
  
• Government and financial institutions, needing system integration and remote monitoring.
  
  
• Hotels, multifamily housing, and mixed-use buildings, offering programmable access, audit trails, and real-time control.
  
  

With concealed wiring, durable construction, and seamless system compatibility, electrified mortise locks deliver the clean design and dependable performance that modern facilities demand.

Safety and Compliance

Electrified mortise locks used in the U.S. must meet strict ANSI/BHMA A156.25 and UL 294 standards for mechanical and electrical reliability.
Before installation, confirm that:

• The door allows free egress under all conditions.
• Locks integrate properly with fire alarm and life safety systems.
• All power supplies and components are UL-listed for access control use.
  
  

Professional installation ensures compliance with NFPA 101 Life Safety Code, ADA, and local fire regulations.