Fixing a problematic lock

Question: We have a Weiser lock on our front door that is in two parts. The bottom part of the lock is a handle grip with a push lever and the top part is a deadbolt. When I enter through my front door, I unlock the deadbolt and then push down on the lever to open the door. My problem is, I have to push down on the lever with two thumbs to get the door open. Is there anything I can do to make the door easier to open?

Fourchalk: Your problem could be a simple fix. Remove the handle grip unit (not the deadbolt) from your door. There are usually two screws on the inside knob and one on the front of the unit located at the bottom of the grip. Once you have the handle grip removed, you will see a silver mechanism that is screwed to the inside of the unit. This is called a retract mechanism and it controls the spring action of the thumb lever. Spray WD40 or graphite on the inside of the handle grip, directing it at the retract mechanism. Now test it to for ease of operation before re-installing. If the thumb lever is still hard to operate, call a locksmith and he or she will install a new retract mechanism for you.