What are the four main things to check when your garage door is stuck?
We know nothing is more frustrating than trying to open or close your garage door only to find that it won’t budge. Sometimes, the door might move halfway and then get stuck.
In our more than 20 years of experience, we have seen that most of the time, the problem is only the batteries in your remote, so before you panic, change them. However, if dead batteries aren’t the issue, we will share four tips with you to troubleshoot further.
- Check the Garage Door Springs
The springs are vital in helping your garage door move up and down despite its weight. If one or both springs are broken, your garage door may get stuck. First, we need to know the two types of garage door springs:
- Torsion springs: These are located near the top of the door.
- Extension springs: These are on each side of the door.
To check for a broken torsion spring, look for a visible gap between the coils. For extension springs, check if a part of the spring is hanging or out of place. If either type of spring is broken, it must be replaced. However, because this is a complex and potentially dangerous repair, it is best to leave it to a specialist unless you have experience. Remember, your safety is first, and you also ensure that your garage door functions properly.
- Inspect the Garage Door Opener Engine
If the opener’s engine isn’t functioning correctly, your garage door likely won’t either. When the door gets stuck, and you hear grinding sounds, there could be an issue with the main drive gear inside the opener. The drive gear is often the first part to fail because it’s plastic and wears over time.
Replacing the drive gear requires technical know-how, so consider a professional to handle this.
- Check the Garage Sensors
Modern garage doors are equipped with sensors, a requirement by law since the 1990s to enhance safety. Most garage doors have sensors—often called ” photo eyes”—positioned on each side of the doorway. Their primary function is to “see” each other. If an object interrupts their visual connection or they are misaligned, the door will stop moving to prevent accidents.
You can identify if your sensors are malfunctioning because you will see a blinking light on one of the sensors. Remember to check for any obstructions, then verify the sensors are aligned. A simple adjustment should resolve the issue.
- Check the Lock Switch on the Wall Button
Most garage door opener control units have a lock or “vacation button” that turns off remote operation. This feature is often used when you’re away for an extended period, locking out any remotes from operating the door and preventing unauthorized access.
If the lock switch is activated, your remote won’t work even though the wall unit still does. Make sure to check if the lock switch is turned on. Deactivate it by pressing the button, and your remote should work again.
Suppose you have gone through these tips, and your garage door still doesn’t open or close smoothly. In that case, it’s time to call a garage door professional like Gali Garage Door. We can help you identify and fix any issues with your garage door, opener, or springs, ensuring they work perfectly. With our expertise, you can rely on your garage door.
Final Thought
Understanding these troubleshooting steps allows you to identify minor issues before they become significant problems. Regular maintenance and prompt action can keep your garage door working smoothly, giving you control over your home’s safety and convenience.