My garage door won’t open. What to do?

Discover expert solutions for garage doors that won't open. Our team ensures quick, reliable fixes for misaligned tracks, faulty sensors, motor malfunctions, and more, restoring your door's functionality and security efficiently.

Home / My garage door won’t open. What to do?

Introduction

Welcome to Best Garage Door Service and Repair (BGD), where your home’s safety and accessibility are our top priorities. Encountering problems with a garage door that refuses to open or close goes beyond mere inconvenience; it can disrupt your daily schedule and jeopardize the security of your home. Such problems are common, given modern garage door systems’ mechanical and electronic complexities. At BGD, we acknowledge the immediacy of such circumstances and are committed to delivering prompt and dependable resolutions.

Our proficient team is ready to tackle extensive joint concerns, from correcting misaligned tracks and troubleshooting faulty sensors to handling more complex issues like motor malfunctions or broken springs. Whether your garage door problem is due to a power outage, a worn-out motor, or something as simple as a blocked photo-eye sensor, we’re here to help. With our extensive experience and commitment to excellent service, you can trust BGD to restore the functionality of your garage door efficiently and safely, ensuring peace of mind and ease of access for you and your family. Let’s explore some common issues together and guide you on how to address them, potentially saving you time and avoiding the need for emergency repairs.

Examples of Common Issues:

Clean the Photo Eye

An overhead track misalignment is a common problem that can lead to garage door malfunctions, often causing the door to stick or stop moving entirely. This misalignment disrupts the optimal function of the door’s mechanisms, including the photo eye sensor, which is crucial for safety and efficient operation.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Loosen Mounting Brackets

Start by carefully loosening the screws that attach the track to the garage ceiling. It is essential to do this gently to avoid causing additional misalignment or damage to the mounting brackets

02. Adjust and Realign Track

Carefully shift the track until it is correctly aligned with the door panels and other mechanical components. Ensure the track is parallel to the door and evenly spaced on both sides to maintain balance and prevent future sticking or jamming. Use a level to check that the track is perfectly horizontal.

03. Tighten and Test

Once the track is aligned correctly, retighten the screws firmly to secure the track in its correct position. Avoid overtightening, as this could strip the screws or deform the track. After tightening, open and close the door several times to test its movement. Listen for unusual noises and watch for smooth transitions at every track point.

04. Check the Photo Eye

Ensure the photo eye sensors are clean and unobstructed. Use a soft, dry cloth to remove any dust or debris from the surface delicately. Check that they are aligned at the same height on either side of the door. Misaligned photo eyes can prevent the door from closing correctly and may require a slight adjustment.

Power Issues

A non-responsive garage door can often be attributed to power issues. These issues may stem from several common scenarios, such as an unplugged opener, a tripped circuit breaker, or a broader power outage in your area. Swiftly acknowledging and rectifying these issues is imperative to guarantee the efficient performance of your garage door system.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Check the Power Connection

Ensure your garage door opener is securely plugged into an electrical outlet. Sometimes, the plug may become loose or disconnect accidentally. Check that the outlet functions by plugging another device to verify power availability.

02. Inspect the Circuit Breaker

If the opener remains unresponsive despite being plugged in, proceed to your electrical panel to inspect for tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses. These can occur due to power surges or overloaded circuits. Locate the breaker connected to your garage and reset it by flipping it off and then on. If you discover a blown fuse, it will need to be replaced

03. Consider a Power Outage

If the above steps do not resolve the power issues, consider the possibility of a local power outage. Check if other areas of your home or your neighborhood are also affected. If so, you must wait for your utility company to restore the power.

04. Test the Door

After ensuring the power is functioning and all connections are secure, try to operate your garage door again. Use the remote or the wall switch to see if the door responds to the commands.

Expired Transmitter Batteries

Garage door remote controls rely on batteries to operate. If your remote isn’t working, it could be expired batteries.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Replace the Batteries

Open the remote and replace the old batteries with new ones.

02. Test the Remote

Use the remote to attempt to open or close the garage door to ensure the issue is with the batteries.

Broken Torsion or Extension Springs

Torsion and extension springs play a crucial role in the operation of your garage door. These springs counterbalance the door’s weight, allowing for smooth and effortless opening and closing. When these springs break, the door often becomes inoperable, remaining shut or stuck because it lacks the necessary support and force to move. This can pose not only a significant inconvenience but also a safety risk.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Inspect the Springs

Carefully examine the springs while the door is closed. Look for any visible gaps between the coils which indicate a break. Also, check for signs of wear, such as rust, unusual stretching, or any irregular spring shape. It's essential to perform this inspection from a safe distance to avoid any accidents, as broken springs can sometimes snap further under tension.

02. Do Not Attempt DIY Repairs

The tension in garage door springs poses significant risks, and trying to repair or replace them on your own can be highly hazardous. Mishandling may result in severe injuries or exacerbate the damage to your garage door system. Always remember that the risks of DIY spring repair far outweigh the potential savings.

03. Call Professionals

It is safest to contact professionals with the right tools and knowledge to handle high-tension spring repairs. Best Garage Door Service and Repair provides secure and efficient spring replacement services. Our trained technicians ensure that your garage door springs are replaced correctly and that your door returns to full functionality with optimal safety.

Misaligned Door Track

A misaligned track can hinder the garage door’s movement, causing it to get stuck or operate inefficiently.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Inspect the Track

Look for any signs of damage or misalignment.

02. Adjust the Track

Loosen the mounts slightly and carefully adjust the track until it is straight.

03. Test the Door

Operate the door to ensure it moves smoothly without resistance.

Manual Lock Engaged

If your garage door is manually locked, it will not open with the remote or keypad.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Check for Engagement

Ensure that the manual lock is not engaged.

02. Disengage the Lock

If locked, manually disengage the lock by turning the handle or sliding the bolt.

03. Test the Door

Try opening the door with the remote to confirm that the lock was the issue.

Snapped Cables

Cables work with the springs to lift and lower your garage door smoothly. If a cable snaps, the door may stop operating correctly or look uneven when opening or closing.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Inspect the Cables

Look for visible signs of wear or breakage.

02. Avoid Using the Door

To prevent further damage or potential injuries, avoid using the door until it is repaired.

03. Professional Repair Needed

Replacing cables is dangerous due to the tension involved. Contact Best Garage Door Service and Repair to handle the repairs safely.

Misadjusted Sensitivity

If your garage door opens or closes too quickly, stops unexpectedly, or doesn’t respond to commands, the sensitivity might be misadjusted.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Consult the Manual

Refer to your opener's manual for instructions on adjusting the sensitivity settings.

02. Adjust Sensitivity

Typically involves turning a screw on the motor unit to increase or decrease the force with which the door opens or closes.

03. Test the Adjustment

Make minor adjustments and test the door’s response until it operates smoothly.

The Remote Signal is Blocked

If your garage door remote does not trigger the door to open or close, the signal may be blocked, or the remote may be out of range.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Remove Obstructions

Ensure no objects are blocking the signal between the remote and the opener's antenna.

02. Check Battery and Range

Replace the remote's battery and ensure you are within operational range.

03. Reposition Antenna

Sometimes, adjusting the position of the opener’s antenna can improve reception.

Misadjusted Limit Setting

Improperly set limit switches may prevent your garage door from opening or closing altogether.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Adjust the Limit Switches

Locate the limit switch adjustment mechanism on your opener. For specific instructions, refer to the manual.

02. Test and Adjust

Make small increments in adjustments and test the door after each change until it opens and closes properly.

03. Secure Settings

Once adjusted, ensure all settings are tightened to prevent slippage over time.

The Door Track is Misaligned

A misaligned track can cause the door to operate unevenly or not at all, as the rollers can’t move smoothly.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Check the Tracks

Look for gaps between the rollers and track or bends in the rails.

02. Loosen and Adjust

Loosen the screws holding the track, adjust it until aligned, then tighten the screws back into place.

03. Test Door Movement

Operate the door several times to ensure it moves freely without resistance or noise.

A Tiny Obstacle is Present

Even small objects in the track or near the sensors can prevent the door from closing or opening correctly.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Inspect and Remove Obstacles

Check the tracks and near the sensors for any small objects or debris and remove them.

02. Clean Tracks and Sensors

Ensure the tracks and sensors are clean to prevent future issues.

03. Test the Door

After cleaning and clearing obstacles, test the door’s functionality.

The Motor has been Deactivated

Power issues or safety switches can sometimes unintentionally deactivate the motor.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Check Power Supply

Ensure the motor unit is connected to power and check that the circuit breaker has not tripped.

02. Reset Motor

Most motors have a reset button; press this according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

03. Call for Service

If the motor does not reactivate, it may need professional servicing.

Lock Mode Has Been Inadvertently Activated

Many garage door openers feature a lock mode to prevent remote operation, which can be accidentally activated.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Check the Control Panel

Look for a button marked "lock" or similar and ensure it is not engaged.

02. Deactivate Lock Mode

Press the lock button for a few seconds until the light indicator changes, signaling that lock mode is off.

03. Test with Remote

Try to operate the door with the remote to ensure the lock mode has been successfully deactivated.

The Door Has Been Locked Manually

Manual locks are used for additional security but can prevent the door from opening if forgotten.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Check for Manual Locks

Inspect the door for any slide locks or latches that may be engaged.

02. Unlock the Door

Disengage manual locks by sliding or turning them to the unlocked position.

03. Operate the Door

Attempt to open the door again to confirm it moves freely.

Stripped Gear in the Opener

A stripped gear can prevent the garage door opener from functioning, even if the motor runs.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Identify Noise and Check Gear

Listen for a humming or grinding noise; inspect the opener for visible signs of a stripped gear.

02. Turn Off Power

Disconnect power to the unit for safety before inspecting or disassembling anything.

03. Professional Repair Required

Due to the complexity, contact Best Garage Door Service and Repair to replace the stripped gear.

The Keypad Is Out of Sync

If the keypad stops communicating with the garage door opener, it may be out of sync.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Reset the Keypad

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to reset or reprogram the keypad.

02. Re-sync with Opener

Typically involves pressing a "learn" button on the opener and entering a new code on the keypad.

03. Test Keypad Operation

Try using the keypad to operate the door to ensure it is now working correctly.

Door Is Disconnected From the Trolley

The emergency release cord can disconnect the door from the trolley, preventing automated operation.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Reconnect to Trolley

Pull the emergency release cord opposite to re-engage the trolley.

02. Check for Engagement

Ensure the trolley is connected and moves with the door when operated.

03. Test Door Function

Open and close the door to confirm it functions smoothly.

Safety Sensors Are Blocked or Misaligned

If anything blocks or misaligns the safety sensors, the door will not close appropriately.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Clean and Align Sensors

Remove debris and adjust the sensors until the LED indicators align correctly.

02. Test Sensor Function

Close the door to ensure it no longer reverses improperly.

03. Regular Maintenance

Regularly check and clean the sensors to prevent future issues.

Roller Came Off the Track

If a roller comes off the track, the door can jam or stop moving correctly.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Inspect and Reposition Roller

Locate the dislodged roller and gently guide it back into the track.

02. Secure the Track and Roller

Check for and tighten any loose hardware that may have caused the roller to slip out.

03. Test Door Operation

Move the door manually first to ensure the roller stays in place, then try using the opener.

The Overhead Track Is Misaligned

Misalignment of the overhead track can cause the door to stick or stop.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Loosen Mounting Brackets

Slightly loosen the screws that hold the track to the ceiling.

02. Adjust and Realign Track

Shift the track until it aligns correctly with the door and other components.

03. Tighten and Test

Retighten the screws and test the door to ensure smooth operation.

Torsion Spring Broke

Torsion springs are critical for safely lifting the garage door. If a torsion spring breaks, the door may not open or could operate unevenly, potentially causing damage or injury.

Steps to Resolve:

01. Identify Broken Spring

Look for a visible gap in the spring located above the garage door.

02. Do Not Operate Door

Avoid using the garage door to prevent further damage or danger.

03. Call for Professional Repair

Replacing torsion springs can be very dangerous. Contact Best Garage Door Service and Repair for safe and professional replacement.

Why Choose the Best Garage Door Service and Repair

At Best Garage Door Service and Repair (BGD), we take great pride in providing exceptional service and expertise to address every aspect of your garage door requirements. Here’s why you should choose us:

Qualifications and Experience

Our team consists of extensively trained experts with a wealth of experience within the garage door industry. Every technician possesses the expertise and equipment necessary to address any garage door concern, guaranteeing flawless and efficient functionality. We remain abreast of the most recent technological advancements and techniques to deliver optimal service.

Safety and Quality Assurance

Your safety is our top priority. We rigorously test and check all our work to meet safety standards and ensure that every repair or installation is performed with the utmost precision and care. Our commitment to quality means using only the best materials and parts for every job, providing you with peace of mind and reliability.

Special Offers and Promotions

We believe in offering our services at competitive prices without compromising on quality. Check out our website or call us to learn about current promotions, discounts, and special offers designed to give you the best value

Conclusion

Selecting the appropriate experts for garage door repairs and maintenance saves you time and money and prioritizes safety and effectiveness. With BGD, you benefit from our commitment to excellence, comprehensive service offerings, and our dedication to customer satisfaction. Let us assist you with your garage door requirements, ensuring you benefit from a fully operational and secure system.

Choose BGD for reliable, efficient, safe garage door service tailored to your needs.

Contact Us Today

To arrange a consultation or book a service, we offer several convenient methods of contact for your ease and accessibility:

Call us, and our friendly staff will assist you immediately.

Email us, and we’ll respond promptly to discuss your needs and how we can help.

Visit our website to learn more about our services. Utilize our convenient online booking platform to schedule your appointment effortlessly.

Garage Door Problems and Solutions

Dealing with problems related to your garage door can be both annoying and inconvenient. Common issues include doors that won’t open, misaligned tracks, or malfunctioning sensors. Understanding these issues and the appropriate steps can save you time and money.

Why won’t my garage door open?

Your garage door may not open for several reasons, such as misaligned tracks, power issues, or sensor malfunctions. Check for visible blockages, confirm the power supply is connected, and ensure the safety sensors are clean and aligned.

What should I do if the photo-eye sensor is blocked?

If the photo-eye sensor is blocked, carefully clean it with a soft cloth to eliminate dust or debris. Make sure the sensors are correctly positioned and directed toward each other. If the issue persists, it’s advisable to consult a professional for further assistance.

How can I tell if my garage door springs are broken?

Indications of broken springs include a door that opens slowly or fails to open, loud noises during operation, or noticeable spring gaps. If you suspect your springs are broken, avoid using the door and immediately call a technician.

Can I fix my garage door by myself?

While some minor issues, such as removing debris from the tracks or changing remote batteries, can be handled by homeowners, it’s generally safer to call professionals for more complicated repairs to prevent injury or additional damage.

What are some common causes of garage door misalignment?

Misalignment can result from factors like track wear, loose hardware, or accidental impacts from vehicles or other objects. Routine maintenance is crucial for spotting and resolving these problems before they worsen.

How can I properly maintain my garage door to avoid problems?

To maintain your garage door’s functionality, conduct regular inspections for signs of wear, clean the tracks and sensors, lubricate the moving components, and ensure that all hardware is secure. Additionally, scheduling annual professional maintenance can help ensure everything functions smoothly.

Customer Reviews and Ratings from Google Maps and More

Discover firsthand experiences from our satisfied customers. Their stories are the testament to our commitment to excellence

03/05/2024

I found this company through Google as I was looking to replace my old garage door. Upon contacting them I got a tech scheduled and sent out to me right away. Their tech Yuri was very professional, friendly, ontime, and easy to work with. He understood my concern and suggested a few suitable options which I ended up getting him installing one the same day. So the entire process from searching to get the replacement was less than a few hours. I highly recommend these guys.

03/06/2024

My daughter and I have used this company for 2 garage doors. Our experience was very positive. They are.very reliable and honest. This morning one of the garage doors was not closing properly, we called the company and they came right away to make the adjustments. We are very happy with this company and highly recommending it.

03/05/2024

Excellent service! From our initial consultation with Yuri to the installation and support by Alex we have been so pleased with the quality of service and professionalism. Same day service, competitive prices, and prompt communication!