Garage doors are an essential part of every home or commercial building, and they provide security and convenience to the users. However, like any other mechanical device, garage doors can develop problems over time, which need to be fixed to ensure they operate smoothly and safely.
At Guardian Doors we have extensive experience in garage door repairs and want to share our knowledge in troubleshooting some of the most common problems that our clients experience with their garage doors and offer some suggestions with regards to fixing them.
As industry experts, we do of course advocate getting a professional to help fix any serious issues. That said, it is extremely helpful if our clients are able to help with the diagnostics before we come out. So here are some common issues:
Issue #1: Garage Door Won’t Open or Close
One of the most frustrating issues with a garage door is when it fails to open or close. This problem can be caused by several factors, including faulty or malfunctioning sensors, or a broken spring. To troubleshoot this issue, start by checking the power source to ensure that it is working correctly. If the power is okay, check the sensors to ensure that they are aligned and free from obstruction.
Testing the sensors on a garage door is an important part of regular maintenance and can help ensure the safe operation of the door.
Here are the steps to test sensors on a garage door safely:
- Clear the Area: Clear the area around the garage door of any objects, vehicles, or debris to ensure nothing obstructs the door’s movement.
- Close the Door: Close the garage door using the remote or wall switch.
- Place an Object in the Path of the Sensors: Place an object, such as a cardboard box or small piece of wood, in the path of the sensors located near the floor on both sides of the garage door.
- Attempt to Close the Door: Attempt to close the garage door using the remote or wall switch. The door should stop and reverse direction when it comes into contact with the object.
- Observe the Sensor Lights: Observe the sensor lights on each side of the garage door. The lights should be illuminated and steady. If the lights are flashing, it indicates that there is an issue with the sensors.
- Repeat the Test: Repeat the test on both sides of the garage door to ensure that both sensors are working correctly.
- Clean the Sensors: If the sensors are not working correctly, clean the sensor lenses with a clean, dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may be obstructing them.
It is important to perform regular sensor tests to ensure the safe operation of the garage door. If the sensors are not working correctly, it is advisable to contact a professional garage door repair technician to diagnose and fix the issue.
Issue #2: Garage Door Makes Noise
Garage doors can make a variety of noises, including grinding, squeaking, or rattling. These noises can be caused by several factors, including loose hardware, worn-out rollers, or a misaligned track. To troubleshoot this issue, start by tightening any loose hardware and lubricating the rollers and track.
To lubricate the rollers take the following steps:
- Close the garage door and disconnect the power to the opener to prevent any accidental movement of the door during lubrication.
- Inspect the rollers for any damage or wear. If any rollers are damaged or worn, they should be replaced before lubrication.
- Spray a small amount of silicone-based lubricant on each roller, making sure to cover the entire surface of the roller.
- After lubricating the rollers, operate the garage door manually to distribute the lubricant evenly along the track system.
- Wipe away any excess lubricant with a clean cloth to prevent any build-up that could attract dust and debris.
It is important to note that you should avoid using petroleum-based lubricants on garage door rollers as they can attract dust and debris and cause damage to the rollers and tracks over time. Additionally, do not use excessive amounts of lubricant as it can attract dirt and debris, which can cause further damage to the rollers and tracks.
If the noise persists, consider contacting a garage door repair expert to help you identify the underlying issue.
Issue #3: Garage Door Opener Remote Not WorkinG
A malfunctioning garage door opener remote can be caused by several factors, including dead batteries, a malfunctioning remote, or a faulty opener. To troubleshoot this issue, start by replacing the batteries in the remote. If that doesn’t work, try reprogramming the remote. If the issue persists, consider contacting a garage door repair expert to help you diagnose and fix the problem.
It’s worth knowing what batteries your remote takes and heading into Bunnings and picking up some spares just in case.
Issue #4: Garage Door Off Track
A garage door off track can be caused by several factors, including a broken cable, worn-out rollers, or a bent track. To troubleshoot this issue, start by disconnecting the opener and manually lifting the door. If the door is off track, gently guide it back into the track.
It is very important to fix a broken cable on a garage door as it can lead to serious safety hazards. When a cable breaks, it causes the door to become unbalanced, and one side may fall or become stuck, leading to an unsafe situation. A broken cable can also cause the door to suddenly fall, which can be very dangerous, potentially causing damage or injury to people or property.
Moreover, a garage door that is not properly balanced due to a broken cable can cause undue stress on other parts of the garage door, such as the springs, rollers, and tracks, leading to additional problems and expenses.
Therefore, it is important to address a broken cable on a garage door immediately to prevent potential hazards and ensure the door operates safely and smoothly. We don’t want to sound like a broken record, but it is highly recommended you seek the services of a professional garage door repair technician to handle the repair as they have the experience, tools, and expertise to fix the issue correctly and safely.
If you are experiencing a garage door emergency, our team are ready to help fix garage doors in Perth at a moment’s notice and offers a 24-hour emergency call out service.
Issue #5: Garage Door Springs Broken
Garage door springs play a critical role in the operation of a garage door. If they break, the door will not open or close. Broken springs can be caused by several factors, including wear and tear or improper maintenance. To troubleshoot this issue, start by visually inspecting the springs for signs of wear or damage.
To look after your springs and ensure they are well maintained, consider the following:
Perform Regular Visual Inspections: Inspect the garage door springs regularly to check for any signs of wear, rust, or damage. Look for signs of wear such as gaps in the springs, cracks, or signs of stretching. Rust and corrosion can weaken the springs, so it’s essential to keep them clean and dry.
Lubricate the Springs: Lubricate the springs using a silicone-based lubricant to keep them functioning smoothly. Apply the lubricant to the springs and wipe off any excess with a clean cloth.
Check the Tension: Check the tension of the springs regularly. The tension of the springs should be adjusted correctly to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the door. If the tension is too loose, the door may not open or close correctly, and if the tension is too tight, it can cause undue stress on the door’s components.
Hire a Professional for Maintenance: It is advisable to hire a professional garage door technician to perform regular maintenance on the garage door springs. They have the expertise and tools to perform a thorough inspection, adjust the tension, and replace the springs if necessary.
Issue #6: Garage Door Closes and Immediately Reverses
If your garage door closes and immediately reverses, it could be due to a malfunctioning sensor or a misaligned track. The sensors are designed to detect objects in the path of the door and reverse it to prevent accidents. To troubleshoot this issue, start by cleaning the sensors and ensuring that they are aligned properly. You can also check the track for any obstructions or misalignment.
Issue #7: Garage Door Remote Interference
If your garage door remote does not work consistently, it could be due to interference from other devices or poor signal strength. Other devices that use radio signals, such as Wi-Fi routers, can interfere with the garage door remote signal. To troubleshoot this issue, start by moving any interfering devices away from the garage door opener. You can also try replacing the remote batteries or using a signal booster to improve the signal strength. If the issue persists, consider contacting a garage door repair expert to help you diagnose and fix the problem.
Contact Us
If you have any questions regarding your garage doors and require our help, contact us at Guardian Doors, your experts in garage door repairs.
