What is that sound? Why won't your garage door close? It isn't always easy to figure out why your garage door isn't working, which is why I put together this website. I have been installing doors for several years, and I can tell you that garage door problems are some of the toughest issues out there to resolve. In addition to working with complicated motors and difficult panels, you might also find yourself struggling with remote control issues. On my blog, you can learn how to diagnose trouble, so that you aren't left trying to solve illusive, seemingly impossible problems.
Is your garage door not opening properly? Is the door not opening evenly, or is it failing to open at all? If so, the source of this problem is likely to be your garage door spring or your automatic garage door opener. Thankfully, the simple test below can help you to quickly determine which of these parts are to blame so that you can seek out the appropriate services to have this part repaired or replaced.
Taking Your Garage Door Opener Out Of The Equation
The simplest way to determine whether or not your garage door opener is to blame for your current problems is to eliminate it from the equation and see if the problems go with it. In order to do this, you will need to disengage the door opener by pulling the emergency release cord. This will allow you to resume manual operation of your garage door.
When looking for the emergency release cord, begin by looking directly under the motor of your garage door opener. If the cord is not located in this area, it should be located near the top of your garage door when the door is in a closed position. The release cord should be red in color and may include a handle for easy operation.
Testing Your Garage Door Spring
Now that your garage door opener is no longer part of the equation, testing the condition of your spring will be incredibly easy. Simply start with the door in a closed position. From the outside of the door, begin to slowly lift the door until it is a few feet off the ground. Be sure to always lift with your knees in order to prevent injury. Furthermore, if you find that the door is too heavy for you to lift, do not overexert yourself. This likely means that your garage door spring is broken and will need to be replaced.
Once you have the door a few feet off the ground, simply let go. If the door maintains its position, your door spring is working properly and your garage door opener is the source of your problems. However, if the door begins to slowly slide closed or if it slams back down to the ground, your door spring is damaged and will need to be repaired or replaced by a professional garage door service contractor. Never attempt to perform this repair yourself as the pressure used by your door spring can result in serious personal injury if it is not released properly.
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