Common Garage Door Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them

garage door sensor

Your garage door is more than just an entryway to your home; it’s a convenience that we often take for granted until it causes interruptions to your day. Common garage door problems can leave you frustrated and in need of a quick solution. If you’re having trouble with your garage door system, this guide will help. We’re covering the most frequent issues homeowners encounter with their garage doors and the best troubleshooting tips to address these problems effectively.

Torsion Spring Malfunction

Torsion springs play a crucial role in the operation of your garage door, as they are responsible for lifting and lowering the heavy door. When these springs malfunction, it can be a significant headache. How do you know if your garage door is suffering from a broken spring? If the door refuses to budge, this is a likely sign the torsion spring needs to be replaced.

Troubleshooting Tip: If you suspect a broken torsion spring, do not attempt to fix it yourself. These springs are under high tension and can be dangerous to handle. Contact a professional garage door technician for a safe and reliable repair.

Garage Door Opener Problems

Your garage door opener is the heart of your automatic garage door system. When it fails to function correctly, it can leave you stranded outside or trapped inside. Common garage door opener problems include the door not responding to the remote control or the wall switch or the door starting to open but then reversing before fully opening or closing.

Troubleshooting Tip: Start by checking the batteries in your remote control. If that doesn’t solve the issue, ensure there are no obstructions blocking the door’s path. If problems persist, consult a garage door technician for a thorough inspection and potential opener replacement.

Noisy Garage Door

A noisy garage door can be annoying, especially if it disrupts your peace and quiet or wakes up the household when used early in the morning. The noise often results from worn-out rollers, loose hardware, or insufficient lubrication.

Troubleshooting Tip: Regularly lubricate the moving parts of your garage door with a silicone-based lubricant. If the noise persists, inspect the rollers and hinges for wear and tear. Replace any damaged components to reduce noise.

Photo Eye Sensor Misalignment

Garage doors equipped with photo-eye sensors are designed to prevent accidents by detecting objects or people in the door’s path. When these sensors become misaligned, the door won’t close, and you may see a blinking light on the sensor units.

Troubleshooting Tip: Check for any obstructions in the sensor’s path, and make sure the sensors are aligned correctly. This is also a good time to clean the sensors’ lenses with a soft cloth. If the problem persists, call a professional to realign or replace the sensors.

Garage Door Doesn’t Open or Close

Perhaps one of the most common garage door problems is when it refuses to open or close, leaving your vehicle trapped inside or outside. This issue can result from various causes, including a broken spring, a malfunctioning opener, or electrical issues.

Troubleshooting Tip: First, check the power supply to your garage door opener. Ensure the opener is plugged in and that the circuit breaker is not tripped. If power is not the issue, it’s time to consult a garage door technician to diagnose and fix the problem.

Struggling With Garage Door Problems? We’ve Got the Perfect Solution!

Dealing with these common garage door issues can be a hassle, but understanding their causes and troubleshooting steps can save you time and frustration. Just remember that for complex problems or issues involving the garage door springs or opener, it’s best to leave the repairs to experienced professionals.

At Skylift Garage Doors, we specialize in providing high-quality garage door repair services. Our technicians are equipped to handle a wide range of garage door issues, so trust us to get your system back on track. Contact us today for expert assistance in garage door replacement and repair.