Garage doors provide security and convenience to our homes or business premises. But when they malfunction, it can cause significant frustration. And not just that, it can also be a big safety hazard.
From unresponsive openers to faulty keypads, here are eight common garage door problems and tips on how to address them. Let’s see what you can do to minimize the disruption and stress.
Opener Not Working
One of the most common door issues is a garage door opener not working. If pressing the garage door remote or wall button does not give you any results, the problem could be as simple as a drained battery in the remote or a loose power connection.
You should first start by replacing the remote batteries and confirming that the power supply for the garage door opener is working. If neither solution fixes the issue, there may be an internal wiring problem that requires a professional inspection. If you’re wondering how to reset a garage door opener, this is when you need to call a garage door repair company to take a look.
Keypad Not Responding
For those using a keypad to open their garage, an unresponsive one can cause a lot of trouble. If this happens, check the keypad batteries, as dead ones are a frequent culprit. If that is not the issue, you may need to reprogram the keypad. For this, you should consult a manual for instructions specific to your model.
If the problem persists after reprogramming, dirt buildup or wear on the keypad’s buttons could be causing issues. Gently clean the keypad and see if it improves. If not, you know the drill – call a professional technician to take a look.
Garage Door Doesn’t Open or Close Fully
A door that won’t open or close fully can be a safety hazard. This problem often arises from misaligned sensors or obstructions along the door tracks. First, check the sensors on either side of the door to ensure they are clean and properly aligned.
Any blockage on the tracks, whether dirt or small objects, can prevent the door from moving smoothly, so clear out any debris. If these steps don’t solve the issue and you see your garage door not closing, you may need a technician to check for motor or alignment issues.
Door Reverses Before or After Touching the Ground
If your door closes only to reopen automatically, it’s usually due to the door’s safety sensors or limit settings. Sensors detect obstacles to prevent accidents, so make sure they are clean and free of obstructions.
You may also need to adjust the limit settings on the door opener, which can be tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the process. While your manual should provide guidance, it might be safer to get professional help.
Noisy Door Operation
A noisy garage door can signal that you need to do some lubrication or indicate worn-out parts. Squeaking, grinding, or rattling sounds often stem from lack of lubrication on the door’s metal components, including the tracks, rollers, and hinges. Use a garage door lubricant to reduce friction.
However, if the noise continues, check for worn-out garage door rollers or loose hardware. You may need to tighten or replace these for the door to stop producing noise.
Remote Control Not Working
An unresponsive remote control can result from several issues, starting with weak batteries. Replace the batteries and, if necessary, reprogram the remote according to the manual.
If it still doesn’t work, ensure that the remote is within range of the opener. Problems with the garage door opener’s antenna may also prevent signal reception, so verify that the antenna is undamaged and positioned correctly.
Broken Springs
Garage door springs bear significant weight, helping the door open and close smoothly. Over time, these springs can wear out or snap, causing the door to become difficult or impossible to lift.
If you suspect a spring issue, it’s best to contact a professional. Garage door springs are under high tension and can be dangerous to handle without proper tools and expertise.
Door Comes Off Its Tracks
When a garage door comes off its tracks, it won’t open or close properly, which can pose a safety hazard. Misalignment can occur due to impact, such as accidentally hitting the door with a vehicle. If you notice signs of wear on the door’s components, it can also be the issue.
Avoid using the door until it has been inspected by a professional. The garage door technician can safely reset the rollers and ensure the door functions correctly.
While many garage door problems have simple solutions, some issues require professional help. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the tracks and lubricating moving parts, can prevent many common issues from arising. However, for more complex problems like broken garage springs or off-track doors, it’s always best to consult a garage door specialist.
We’re here for all types of garage door repairs. If you’re looking to fix the garage door in Longmeadow, contact us now, and we’ll assess the situation quickly and efficiently.
