A garage door that won’t open can be more than just an inconvenience, it can disrupt your daily routine and pose security concerns. Before you call in a professional, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to possibly identify and resolve the issue. Understanding the common reasons behind a non-operational garage door can save you time and money. AAA Action Garage Doors would like to share a basic guide to help you diagnose and fix your garage door problem.
Check the Power Source for Garage Door Opener
The most basic step is to ensure that your garage door opener is receiving power:
• Check the outlet: Ensure that the opener is plugged in and the outlet is working. You can test the outlet by plugging in another device.
• Examine the circuit breaker: If the outlet isn’t the issue, check your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure there has not been a trip or a blown fuse affecting the garage’s power supply.
Remote Control and Wall Switch Issues
Sometimes the problem might be with the remote control or the wall switch:
• Remote control: Ensure the remote has fresh batteries. Check the remote’s frequency settings and reprogram it if necessary.
• Wall switch: If the door operates with the wall switch but not the remote, the issue is likely with the remote. If the wall switch also fails to activate the door, the issue could be electrical or with the opener itself.
Inspect the Garage Door Manually
Disconnect the automatic opener usually by pulling the emergency release cord and try to open the door manually:
• Obstructions: Check for any visible obstructions in the tracks like stones, dirt, or debris that could prevent movement.
• Manual operation: If the door is very heavy or won’t budge, the problem could be related to the springs or cables.
Check the Garage Door Springs & Cables
These components are essential for lifting the door and can be the culprit when a door won’t open:
• Springs: Look for signs of wear or breakage. If a torsion spring which is above the door is broken, you will see a gap in the spring.
• Cables: Check if the cables have come off the pulley system or if they appear frayed or broken.
Do not attempt to replace springs or cables yourself, these are under high tension and can be dangerous. Call a professional if the cables need to be replaced.
Garage Door Track Alignment & Condition
Misaligned or damaged tracks can prevent the door from opening:
• Alignment: Check for gaps between the rollers and the rail or bends in the rails. A level can be used to check alignment.
• Lubrication: Ensure that the tracks are well lubricated. However, do not grease the tracks but rather use a lubricant designed specifically for garage doors.
Garage Door Safety Sensor Issues
Garage doors are equipped with safety sensors that prevent the door from closing when an obstruction is detected. However, if they are misaligned or faulty, they can also prevent the door from opening:
• Sensor alignment: Ensure that both sensors on either side of the door are aligned correctly and that no objects are obstructing their view.
• Clean sensors: Clean the lenses with a soft cloth and mild cleaner.
Examine the Garage Door Balance
An unbalanced garage door can strain the opener:
• Balance test: With the door closed, pull the release handle and manually lift the door halfway. If it does not stay put, the springs are likely unbalanced.
Garage Door Services in Aliante, Centennial, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Enterprise, Green Valley Ranch, Henderson, Lone Mountain Village, North LV, Peccole Ranch, Paradise, Silverado Ranch, Spring Valley, Summerlin, Sunrise Manor, Tuscany Village, Whitney, Winchester & Las Vegas Nevada
While some issues like reprogramming the remote or cleaning the sensors can be handled by homeowners, others, particularly those involving springs and cables, require professional intervention. Regular maintenance checks can prevent many of these problems. However, if you’re unable to identify or fix the issue, it is wise to consult with a professional garage door repair service to ensure safety and functionality. For help troubleshooting your garage door, contact AAA Action Garage Doors today.
