Garage doors are complex systems that can experience various issues over time. A properly installed garage door can last many years without any kind of hassle. But an improper installation can actually cause premature wear and tear that might not be apparent until something actually breaks. As a homeowner, you should learn a bit about the system that makes up a garage door to get the most value as well as save some headache. If not, you might find yourself spending money on repair services way sooner than you thought.
Here are some common garage door problems and troubleshooting steps you can take to address them:
Door won't open or close: If your garage door doesn't respond when you try to open or close it, check the power source. Ensure that the door opener is plugged in and receiving power. If the power supply is fine, examine the batteries in your remote control. Replace them if necessary. Additionally, check the safety sensors near the bottom of the door. Ensure they are clean and aligned properly.
Noisy operation: If your garage door is making excessive noise while opening or closing, the most likely culprit is a lack of lubrication. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to the metal moving parts, such as hinges, rollers, and tracks. Avoid using grease or oil-based lubricants as they can accumulate dust and debris.
Uneven movement or misalignment: If your garage door is moving unevenly or appears misaligned, check the tracks on both sides. Look for any obstructions or debris that may be interfering with the smooth operation of the door. Clean the tracks and remove any obstacles. Also, inspect the rollers for damage or wear and replace them if necessary.
Door reversal or reopening: If your garage door starts to close but immediately reverses or reopens, the problem might be with the close limit switch. This switch determines how far the door should close. Adjust the close limit switch according to the manufacturer's instructions. Additionally, check the safety sensors mentioned earlier. If they are dirty or misaligned, clean and realign them properly.
Broken springs: One of the most common garage door issues is broken or damaged springs. If you notice a gap in the torsion spring or extension spring is visibly broken, it's crucial to contact a professional technician to handle the repair. Garage door springs are under high tension, and attempting to fix them yourself can be dangerous.
Remote control or keypad not working: If your remote control or keypad isn't operating the garage door, try replacing the batteries. If that doesn't solve the issue, reprogram the remote control or keypad according to the manufacturer's instructions. It's also possible that the antenna on the garage door opener is damaged or needs repositioning for better reception.
Slow or jerky movement: If your garage door operates slowly or moves jerkily, the problem might lie in the tracks or rollers. Clean the tracks thoroughly and lubricate them with a silicone-based lubricant. Inspect the rollers for any damage or wear. If the problem persists, you may need to call a professional to examine the door's balance or the opener's motor.
Remember, while troubleshooting garage door problems, safety should be your top priority. If you're unsure about performing any repairs yourself or if the issue seems complex, it's best to consult a professional garage door technician who has the expertise to handle the repairs safely and effectively.
Is The Garage Door Trolley System Connected?
Before you can replace the cord, there are a few things that need to be checked. First, you must ensure that the motor shaft is directly on top of the trolley pulley. If this is not correct, adjust it accordingly. The second thing to inspect is the wheel bearings. There must be a smooth rotation when moving either up or down. Worn bearings can cause looseness in the springs, and further damage will occur if not repaired soon enough. Lastly, make sure that the springs are not twisted or connected incorrectly. Check them one by one and ensure they are properly connected to their corresponding tracks.
Is the garage door safety photo eye triggered?
To check whether the photo eye is triggered, you may have to remove the cover to access the safety sensor. The safety photo eye unit is usually red and has a blinking red light when activated. If everything checks out and you still suspect that it is not working, it would be best to contact a professional garage door repairman rather than replace it with your own hands. Trying to replace or repair something that requires special skill can be very dangerous if not done correctly.
Do Garage Door Force Control Settings Need Adjusting?
If the garage door comes up at a slow pace or is hard to close, the force control device should be adjusted. This usually works by adjusting the amount of weight that is being lowered on the poles. Usually, there are three settings: up, straight, and down. Try changing them to get a better feel for how they affect the speed or ease of closing. If you change them and it does not work as you had anticipated, adjust them again to find out what works best.
Sometimes, problems can be repaired on your own. A simple puncture hole in the garage door can be fixed by getting some duct tape and covering it. Do not use electrical tape, as it may damage the door and eventually lead to a fire. If there is no access to replace the broken part or if you want to repair it on your own, try tightening all of the screws on all of the components that are attached to each other.
How do Garage Door Repair Companies help?
Garage door repair companies play a crucial role in addressing garage door issues and ensuring the proper functioning and safety of your garage door system. Here's how these companies can help:
Expertise and Experience: Garage door repair companies have technicians who are trained and experienced in dealing with various garage door problems. They possess the knowledge and skills to diagnose issues accurately and provide effective solutions. They understand the mechanics of different types of garage doors and their components, allowing them to handle repairs efficiently.
Safety: Garage doors can be heavy and operate under tension, making them potentially dangerous if not handled properly. Professional repair companies have technicians who are well-versed in safety protocols and practices. They know how to safely handle garage door repairs, minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries during the process.
Proper Tools and Equipment: Garage door repair companies have access to specialized tools and equipment required for repairs and maintenance. These tools allow technicians to efficiently carry out repairs, adjustments, and installations. Using the right tools ensures the job is done correctly and helps prevent further damage to the door or its components.
Wide Range of Services: Garage door repair companies offer a wide range of services to address various issues. They can handle common problems like broken springs, malfunctioning openers, damaged panels, misaligned tracks, and more. Whether it's a minor adjustment or a major repair, professional technicians have the expertise to tackle the task effectively.
In Conclusion:
There are many reasons why you may need to hire a professional mechanic for garage door repair. That is why it's important to know what specific problem is being addressed so that you can decide on the best solution. If you just don't have the time or equipment needed for repairs, hiring a professional garage door repair company will give you peace of mind to know that your garage is in the reliable hands of experts.
