Garage doors can encounter a variety of problems, from unusual noises to completely refusing to open or close. By understanding some common issues, you can often troubleshoot yourself before calling a professional. Here's a guide to help you identify and fix common garage door problems.
Unusual Noises
If your garage door is making new or unusual sounds, the type of noise can indicate the specific problem:
- Vibrating or rattling: This is often caused by loose garage door parts, which may simply need to be re-tightened.
- Squeaking or squealing: Usually, this is due to loose or dry rollers that need lubrication.
- Popping or rumbling: A serious indicator that your garage door spring might be close to snapping.
While some sounds are easy fixes, like tightening loose bolts or lubricating rollers, others may signal bigger problems that need attention from garage door repair professionals, especially if a broken garage door spring is involved.
Slow Opening
When your garage door opens slowly, the issue is often dirt and grime buildup in the rollers or tracks. This can be resolved with lubrication, but make sure you use a silicone-based lubricant instead of white lithium. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t lubricate the tracks: Doing so can cause damage.
- Dust attracts more dust: Once lubricated, rollers will attract more dirt, so cleaning is also essential.
A better long-term solution is to upgrade to fully sealed bearing rollers, which are 100% maintenance-free and available at Precision Garage Door Service of Fort Wayne.
Won’t Open or Close
When your garage door refuses to open or close, several components might be the source of the issue:
- Dead batteries or power issues: If your remote or keypad is not working, check the batteries, ensure you're within range, or try resyncing them to the motor using your manual.
- Motor issues: After a power outage, your motor may need to be reset or reconnected to Wi-Fi. If your motor is old, it might be time for a replacement.
Safety Sensors Misaligned
Garage doors have safety sensors at the base that prevent the door from closing if something is in the way. However, if the sensors are misaligned or dirty, they may falsely signal an obstacle, causing the door to stop closing. Check the alignment and clean the sensors to ensure they are functioning properly.
Springs or Cables Snapped
The springs and cables are crucial components of your garage door system, bearing most of the door's weight. If these break, it’s not only dangerous, but it can prevent the door from operating entirely. Handling garage door spring repair on your own can be hazardous, so it’s best to call Precision Garage Door Service in Fort Wayne for expert assistance.
Troubleshoot with Precision
While you can often identify the source of your garage door issues, many repairs require professional expertise. Precision Garage Door Service is available 24/7 for overhead door repair and other garage services in Fort Wayne. Our certified technicians ensure your door is repaired safely and efficiently.
For more complicated repairs, such as replacing a broken garage door spring or fixing sensors, call Precision Garage Door Service. Whether you need garage door opener installation, garage door replacement, or help with any malfunctioning door, Precision has the expertise to keep your garage door running smoothly.
