Glossary of multipoint lock handleset functions: active (keyed cylinder + thumb turn for exterior doors), inactive/non-keyed (thumb turn only for patio or balcony doors), and dummy/fixed lever (no key or thumb turn for inactive double doors).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Three Common Handleset Types

• Multipoint lock handlesets come in three main configurations — active, inactive (or non-keyed), and dummy (or fixed lever).
• Knowing which type your door uses helps you order the right replacement and understand how the door is meant to lock and operate.
• The terms refer to whether the handleset has a key cylinder, a thumb turn, or no locking function at all.

2. Active Handlesets for Exterior Doors

• An active handleset has a keyed cylinder on one side and a thumb turn on the other.
• It is commonly used on exterior doors, where the key restricts access from the outside and the thumb turn lets you lock or unlock the door from the inside.
• The keyed cylinder is typically on the exterior side of the door, with the thumb turn on the interior.

3. Inactive (Non-Keyed) Handlesets for Patio Doors

• An inactive or non-keyed handleset has a thumb turn but no key cylinder.
• The thumb turn is most commonly located on the interior side of the door.
• This style is often used on patio or balcony doors, where locking is only needed from the inside.
• Both the interior and exterior handles still move up and down to operate the door.

4. Dummy (Fixed Lever) Handlesets for Inactive Double Doors

• A dummy or fixed lever handleset has no key, no thumb turn, and no moving handles.
• Both the interior and exterior handles are fixed in a rigid position and do not operate any latch or lock.
• This style is commonly used on the inactive (stationary) leaf of a double door — the side that is held shut by flush bolts rather than a multipoint lock.

5. Choose the Right Handleset for Your Door

• Identify which side of the door faces the exterior and whether you need to lock from the outside, the inside only, or not at all.
• Use that information to choose between an active, inactive, or dummy handleset that matches your door’s function.
• If you are unsure, use the Multipoint Lock Identifier linked below so our team can match the exact replacement for your door.

Need Replacement Parts?

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Multipoint Lock Handleset Trim

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