Even with proper maintenance, garage doors can get stuck. This can create a security risk, as well as an unwanted hassle. A proper assessment will steer you to your next step in deciding what to do to fix your garage door, whether it is stuck halfway open, or won’t open at all.
When Your Garage Door Sticks
When the garage door becomes jammed, an inspection of several parts is in order. Here are six different variables to consider when dealing with a garage door that won’t move.
1) Check the Opener
First off, you need to determine whether the garage door is malfunctioning, or if it is the garage door opener causing the issues. To check, close the garage door completely, then pull the emergency release cord to disengage the opener trolley. Try to open the garage door by hand. If it completely opens smoothly, the problem is with the opener–not the door. If the garage door still only opens halfway, the problem is the door.
2) Test the Sensors
With the endless use of your garage door, it is no wonder that the sensors can become dirty or even knocked around. The sensors need to remain aligned and dust-free in order to remain working well. To start, try dusting off any debris from the sensors and see if the garage door works. If not, verify the wiring between the sensor and the door. To do this, check the LED light and see what color it is. If the green LED on the sensor is off, dim, or flickering, alignment is required.
3) Consider the Weather
The weather also plays a role in how well your garage door works. If your garage door is acting up when the weather is changing, you need to adjust the pressure on the opener. Most openers have a force-adjustment mechanism which controls the force that is used to operate the door. If you feel this is the cause of your garage door being stuck, it is best to let professionals assist you in adjusting the opener’s pressure.
4) Inspect the Tracks
Investigate the track, door rollers, hinges, and other hardware for signs of blockage and or damage that causes the garage door to get hung up. Lubricate the tracks with a silicone oil or spray and attempt to lift the door slowly. Watch closely to see if there is any obstructions that are causing it to become stuck or propelling it into reverse. Anything that protrudes in the pathway can make a garage door become stuck.
5) Don’t Get Disconnected
Every garage door comes with a disconnect cord, switch, or knob that allows you to work on the door manually. Occasionally, this switch can be accidentally turned off and the motor becomes disconnected. Double check that your motor is connected.
6) Visually Check the Springs
Always check your springs if your garage door is not working. At times, these springs break and need repair. There are two types of springs used. The torsion spring is located horizontally, at the top of the door. Check for a gap in between the springs to see if they are broken. If your springs run alongside your garage door, these are extension springs. Look and see if any piece of the spring is broken and hanging. If your springs are broken, contact a professional to have them replaced. Replacing springs on your own is a dangerous process and should not be done.
After You Inspect
Garage doors make life easier but can cause frustrations when not properly working. Inspect these common garage door issues and then determine whether you are able to fix the problem or if you need a professional to assist you. Click To Tweet Blockages and unaligned sensors are easy to fix on your own, but other issues, like repairing springs and adjusting the pressure-mechanisms, need to be taken care of by professionals.
To learn more about what to do when your garage door gets stuck and how to fix it, Contact Us.