A garage door that refuses to close can be frustrating, especially when you’re in a hurry. This issue can stem from various causes, but the good news is that many of them are easy to troubleshoot and fix. Today, we at AAA Action Garage Doors would like to take the opportunity to walk you through several steps to identify the problem and get your garage door working again. However, if the issue persists or seems beyond your skill level, it’s always best to contact a professional garage door technician.
Check the Safety Sensors
One of the most common reasons for a garage door not closing is a problem with the safety sensors. Located near the base of the garage door tracks on both sides, these sensors are designed to detect objects in the door’s path, preventing the door from closing if something is in the way. If the sensors are misaligned, dirty, or blocked, they might send a false signal to the garage door opener.
Solution: Inspect the sensors to ensure they are properly aligned and facing each other. Clean the lenses gently with a soft cloth to remove any dirt or debris that could be obstructing the signal. Additionally, check if anything is physically blocking the sensor beams, such as toys, tools, or even dust.
<2>Inspect the Remote & Wall Control
Sometimes the problem lies with the devices used to control the garage door rather than the door itself. If your garage door isn’t closing when you use the remote or wall-mounted control, the issue could be with the power source, battery, or signal.
Solution: First, replace the batteries in your remote and test it again. If the problem persists, check to see if the wall control is functioning correctly. If the remote works but the wall control doesn’t, there may be an issue with the wiring or the wall unit itself. Additionally, make sure the garage door opener is receiving power—verify that it’s plugged in, and reset any tripped circuit breakers if necessary.
Look for Obstructions in the Garage Door Track
Another common cause for a garage door failing to close is an obstruction or damage in the tracks. Even a small object lodged in the track can prevent the door from moving smoothly. Similarly, bent or misaligned tracks can also halt the door’s movement.
Solution: Visually inspect the tracks on both sides of the garage door to see if any obstructions, dirt, or small objects are preventing the door from closing. If you notice any misaligned or bent sections, it’s best to call a professional technician to repair the track to avoid further damage.
Check the Garage Door Opener Settings
Sometimes, the garage door opener settings themselves can be the problem. Most openers have adjustable force and limit settings that control how far the door moves up or down. If the limits are incorrectly set, the door might think it’s hitting an obstacle and automatically reverse.
Solution: Refer to your garage door opener’s manual for instructions on adjusting the limit settings. If you’re uncomfortable doing this on your own, contact a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.
Examine the Garage Door Springs & Cables
Garage door springs and cables play a crucial role in the door’s operation, and if they’re damaged, the door may struggle to close. Broken springs or snapped cables can make it impossible for the door to move properly and may even be dangerous to handle.
Solution: If you suspect a problem with the springs or cables, do not attempt to fix them yourself. These components are under high tension and can cause serious injury if handled incorrectly. Call a professional garage door repair service to inspect and replace any damaged parts.
Ensure Manual Lock Isn’t Engaged
Some garage doors come with a manual lock for added security. If the lock is engaged, the door will not close, even if everything else is functioning properly.
Solution: Check the door to ensure the manual lock isn’t engaged. If it is, simply unlock it and try closing the door again.
When to Call a Garage Door Professional
While some garage door issues can be easily fixed at home, others require professional expertise. If you’ve tried the above solutions and your garage door still won’t close, or if you notice broken parts like springs, cables, or tracks, it’s time to call a garage door repair specialist. Attempting complex repairs yourself can lead to further damage or injury. A reliable garage door technician will be able to quickly diagnose and fix the problem, ensuring your door operates safely and efficiently. Regular maintenance can also help prevent future issues, so consider scheduling annual inspections to keep your garage door in optimal condition.
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
Ultimately, when your garage door won’t close, it can be due to a variety of reasons ranging from sensor issues to damaged components. By troubleshooting these common problems, you can often solve the issue yourself. However, never hesitate to reach out to a professional for more complex repairs or safety concerns. Call AAA Action Garage Doors when you need garage door services in the Greater Las Vegas, NV area.
