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Know the Common Culprits Behind Garage Door Issues
One of the most frustrating homeowner problems is when the garage door suddenly starts acting up. Whether it’s getting stuck open or closed, making strange noises, or not responding to the remote, these issues can interfere with your day and leave you wondering if you need to call a professional for garage door repair in Short Pump. Before scheduling an appointment, try troubleshooting some of the most common culprits yourself.
Check the Photo Eyes Are Clear and Aligned
Photo eyes are the electric eyes located near the bottom of the garage door. They work to detect objects and reverse the door’s direction if something passes through the opening. Over time, the eyes can become misaligned or blocked by dirt, cobwebs, or other debris. Clear any obstructions and make sure the eyes are facing each other appropriately. This is often the cause of doors that won’t close fully or reverse unexpectedly.
Inspect and Tighten Loose Hardware
Noisy or sluggish garage doors often have loose hardware. Inspect rollers, hinges, springs, and cables for signs of wear. Rollers should spin smoothly without wobbling. Tighten any nuts or bolts that have come loose. Lubricate moving parts with white lithium grease as needed. Loose hardware disrupts the door’s smooth operation and leads to further issues if not addressed.
Check for Proper Tension on Springs
Extension and torsion springs help balance the weight of the door. Over time, garage door springs can lose tension, putting more strain on other parts. If your door is getting harder to open manually or seems out of balance, the springs may need adjusting. Only attempt this yourself if you’re experienced—otherwise, call a pro. Improperly adjusted springs are dangerous and a common cause of repair needs.
Replace Broken Cables or Pulleys
Cables and pulleys connect the door to the opener and springs. Cracked, frayed, or broken cables cannot support the door properly. Pulleys should spin freely without wobbling. Replace any faulty parts to restore smooth functionality. Cable and pulley issues are a common underlying problem that can manifest through other symptoms.
Reprogram or Replace the Opener
If the door only acts up for the opener and not manually, there may be an issue with the electronics. First, try reprogramming the remote as signals can weaken over time. If problems persist, inspect the opener for signs of damage, loose wires, or worn gears/motors. Replace it if it’s old or faulty. An opener in need of repair is often the root of remote and automatic operation troubles.
With some basic troubleshooting, many common garage door issues can be solved without a service call. But don’t hesitate to contact a pro if problems are beyond your comfort level or ability. A technician can quickly identify and fix more serious problems to restore smooth, reliable operation and peace of mind. With a little TLC, your garage door can run smoothly for years.
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