Performing basic garage door opener repairs yourself can save you money compared to calling a professional. Many common garage door opener issues are actually quite simple to fix. In this guide, we’ll walk through some typical garage door opener repair problems and how to troubleshoot and fix them.
Check the Photo Eyes
One of the most common reasons a garage door opener acts up is an issue with the photo eyes. These safety sensors are located near the bottom of the door and prevent it from closing if anything is in the way. To check them, place an object in the path of the path of the path of the beams and see if the garage door reverses. If not, you may need to clean the lenses, adjust their position, or replace the photo eyes. My friend Laurel had this same issue last month and cleaning the lenses fixed it right away.
Test the Safety Sensors
In addition to the photo eyes, your garage door opener likely has physical safety sensors along the sides of the door. If these are triggered while the door is closing, it should reverse direction. Gently try triggering one with your hand to test. If the door doesn’t respond, you may need to realign or replace the safety sensor. Be very careful when testing these for your own safety.
Inspect the Garage Door Opener Arms
The garage door opener arms attach to the door and are vital for proper function. Check that they are firmly attached and not bent or damaged. The door may not operate correctly or safely if the arms are compromised. Replace them if needed. Also check that the door track is clear of debris and grease.
Change the Garage Door Opener Battery
If your opener runs on battery backup, make sure to replace the batteries annually or when the opener acts up. Weak batteries are a common cause of malfunctions. Use a quality alkaline battery for best performance. Rechargeable batteries may not last as long.
Tighten or Replace Loose Fasteners
Over time, nuts, bolts, and screws can work loose on the garage door opener and door components. Inspect all visible hardware and tighten any that are loose. Also check the chain/screw drive system for the door – it may need lubrication or adjustment. Replacing worn parts now prevents more serious issues down the line.
Conclusion
Hopefully this covers some of the more common “garage door opener repair” issues you may encounter. Don’t hesitate to call a professional if problems persist after trying basic troubleshooting and adjustments. Taking care of small garage door opener repairs yourself saves both time and money in the long run. Let me know if you have any other questions!